Why medals matter
In Emirates Taekwon-Do, training is not limited to physical techniques, patterns, or sparring. From the earliest stages, students are taught that Taekwon-Do is a moral and educational discipline. For this reason, we place strong emphasis on the five tenets defined in the Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit.
The tenets medals system was created to make these principles visible, understandable, and meaningful for children and parents. Each medal represents a tenet and is awarded when a student demonstrates that value consistently through actions, attitude, and decision-making. The medals are not participation awards. They are earned through behavior observed over time by instructors.
By recognizing character development with the same seriousness as technical progress, students learn that Taekwon-Do is something they live, not something they perform only during class.
How medals are awarded
Each of the five medals is awarded under specific circumstances. Instructors observe students during classes, events, examinations, and interactions with peers, parents, and instructors. When a student repeatedly demonstrates a tenet in a clear and sincere way, the instructor may recommend the medal.
There is no fixed timeline. Some students earn medals quickly, while others take longer. This is intentional. Character development progresses at different speeds, and the system respects individual growth. A single isolated action is not enough. The student must show understanding and consistency appropriate to their age.
Medals are awarded publicly to reinforce positive examples and to help other students understand what those behaviors look like in practice. This creates a shared culture where values are recognized and encouraged.
Courtesy medal
Courtesy is the foundation of Taekwon-Do behavior. It includes respect for instructors, classmates, parents, and the dojang. Students who earn the Courtesy medal consistently greet properly, listen attentively, follow instructions, and treat others with kindness.
Courtesy is also shown in small daily actions, such as helping classmates, waiting patiently for a turn, and accepting correction without argument. For younger students, this may include using polite language and showing respect to adults. For older students, it includes setting an example for juniors.
The Courtesy medal is awarded when instructors see that respectful behavior is not forced, but natural. This reflects the original purpose of Taekwon-Do as a discipline that builds good citizens, not only skilled martial artists.
Integrity medal
Integrity means knowing the difference between right and wrong and having the honesty to stand by that understanding. In training, this appears when a student admits mistakes, does not cheat, and takes responsibility for their actions.
Students who earn the Integrity medal show honesty even when it is difficult. They do not make excuses, blame others, or hide errors. During class, this may include counting repetitions correctly, following rules when unsupervised, and being truthful about effort and performance.
Integrity is essential in Taekwon-Do because technique without honesty has no value. The medal is awarded when instructors observe consistent truthful behavior and moral courage appropriate to the students age and level.
Perseverance medal
Perseverance is the ability to continue despite difficulty, fatigue, or frustration. In Taekwon-Do, progress is gradual, and students face physical and mental challenges at every level.
The Perseverance medal is awarded to students who do not give up when techniques are difficult, when patterns take time to learn, or when corrections are repeated. This includes continuing to train after mistakes, returning after setbacks, and maintaining effort even when results are not immediate.
For children, perseverance often appears as emotional resilience. The student may struggle, feel disappointed, but continues training with determination. This medal teaches that success in Taekwon-Do, and in life, is built through steady effort over time.
Self-control medal
Self-Control is essential in a martial art that teaches powerful techniques. It refers to controlling emotions, reactions, and physical actions. Students who earn this medal demonstrate discipline even in stressful or exciting situations.
In class, self-control includes following safety rules, stopping techniques when instructed, and managing frustration or excitement appropriately. Outside the dojang, it includes respectful behavior and emotional regulation.
The Self-Control medal is awarded when instructors observe that a student understands when to act and when to restrain themselves. This reflects one of the most important responsibilities of learning Taekwon-Do: using strength wisely and never impulsively.
Indomitable spirit medal
Indomitable Spirit represents courage, confidence, and moral strength in the face of adversity. It is the most demanding tenet and often the last medal earned.
Students who receive this medal show bravery when facing challenges such as fear, failure, or pressure. This may include performing in front of others despite nervousness, standing up for what is right, or continuing with confidence after a setback.
Indomitable Spirit does not mean aggression or stubbornness. It means quiet determination and inner strength. The medal is awarded when a student demonstrates this quality in a way that reflects maturity and understanding of Taekwon-Do principles.
Requirement for blue belt
In Emirates Taekwon-Do, students who wish to attempt the blue belt examination must demonstrate understanding of the five tenets of Taekwon-Do. This understanding is not theoretical alone. It must be reflected in behavior.
For this reason, all five tenets medals are required before a student is eligible for the blue belt exam. The medals confirm that the student has lived each principle, not only memorized them.
This requirement ensures that advancing students possess both technical foundation and moral maturity. It aligns with the traditional ITF philosophy that higher ranks carry greater responsibility. The medals system prepares students to advance with confidence, discipline, and respect, honoring the true spirit of Taekwon-Do.