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STUDENT RESOURCES
STUDENT / INSTRUCTOR RELATIONSHIP
The martial art of TaeKwon‑Do is rooted in the traditional belief that the art must be passed down directly from teacher to student. Because this was once the only way to learn, the student–instructor relationship became an essential part of TaeKwon‑Do training. Even today, this relationship is recognized for its tremendous value in shaping a student’s mindset and perspective—not only in practicing the art, but in approaching everyday life. We are, in many ways, the products and reflections of the many teachers who guide us.​
“Father and mother are the parents who bring me up, while a teacher is the parent who educates me.”​
- An old Korean Proverb
For this reason, a student is expected to show the same level of respect to their teachers as they would to their parents. Students should strive to set aside any preconceived notions they may have about their instructor and focus on learning all they can. It is immaterial whether the student knows the instructor in another social or professional setting; once inside the Do Jang, the instructor assumes the role of senior. Students should therefore follow the instructor’s guidance without hesitation or attempts to second‑guess. Without trust and mutual respect, a true student–instructor relationship cannot exist.
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A dedicated and sincere instructor is essential to any Do Jang. Likewise, a school cannot grow and mature without a group of equally dedicated and sincere students. Good teachers help create good students, and good students help create good teachers. Maintaining the proper attitude toward both the instructor and the art of TaeKwon‑Do often determines whether a student is able to realize their full potential.​​
Instructors and students should observe the following points alike:
INSTRUCTORS:
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Never tire of teaching. A good instructor can teach anywhere, at any time, and should always be ready to answer questions.
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An instructor should be eager for their students to surpass them. This is the highest compliment an instructor can receive. A student should never be held back. If an instructor realizes that a student has developed beyond their own teaching capabilities, the student should be guided to an instructor who can support their continued growth.
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An instructor must always set a good example and never attempt to mislead or take advantage of students.
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The development of the student should take precedence over commercial interests. Once an instructor becomes focused on materialism, they risk losing the respect of their students.
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Instructors should help students build positive connections outside the Do Jang.
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Instruction should be grounded in both scientific principles and theoretical understanding to save time and energy.
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Students should be encouraged to visit other training halls and study additional techniques. Students who are forbidden from doing so may become resentful. Those who visit other schools may benefit from observing techniques that suit them well or from comparing their own skills to less effective methods.
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All students should be treated equally. There should be no favorites. Students should be corrected in private, never in front of the class. Discipline should be fair and timely. Praise and encouragement should be given publicly to help build confidence and self‑esteem.
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If an instructor is unable to answer a question, they should not attempt to invent an answer. They should make every effort to find the correct information as soon as possible and share it with the student. An instructor does not lose respect by admitting they do not know something; they lose respect by being dishonest.
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Never betray a trust.
STUDENTS:
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Never tire of learning. A good student can learn anywhere, at any time, and in any situation. This is the true secret of knowledge.
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A good student is willing to make sacrifices for their art and their instructor. A poor student views training as a commodity purchased through monthly or quarterly fees and is unwilling to participate in demonstrations, tournaments, teaching, or contributing to the success of the Do Jang. An instructor can afford to lose this type of student.
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Always set a good example for lower‑ranking students. They will watch you closely and try to emulate their seniors.
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Always remain loyal to your instructor and to TaeKwon‑Do. Never criticize your art, your instructor, or fellow students.
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If an instructor teaches a technique, practice it diligently and attempt to apply it.
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Remember that a student’s conduct outside the Do Jang reflects on both the art and the instructor.
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If a student adopts a technique from another Do Jang and the instructor disapproves, the student must either discard the technique immediately or choose to train at the school where it was taught.
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Never be disrespectful to an instructor. A student may disagree, but they must first follow the instructor’s command and then discuss the matter privately.
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A student must always be eager to learn and willing to ask questions.
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Never betray a trust.