The general meaning of this form and associated trigram is Yang, which represents Heaven and Light. Also, this trigram has a relationship to South and Father. The first Taegeuk form is the beginning of all Poomsaes, the “birth” of the martial artist into Taekwondo. This Poomsae should be performed with the greatness of Heaven.

This poomsae represents the Lake. Also, related to the symbol is South East and the relationship of the youngest daughter. The movements of this Taegeuk/Palgwe are aimed to be performed believing that man has limitations, but that we can overcome these limitations. The Lake and its water symbolise the flowing and calm nature of the martial artist. This form is to reflect those attributes.


This poomsae represents Thunder. Also, the trigram is strongly connected to northeast and the relationship of the Eldest son. Thunder comes from the sky and is absorbed by the earth, thus, according to the beliefs of the I Ching, thunder is one of the most powerful natural forces. This poomse is associated with power and the connection between the heavens and earth. This poomse is intended to be performed with power resembling the Thunder for which it is named.

This poomse represents Wind. The poomsae is also related to southwest and the relationship with an eldest daughter. The I Ching promotes that wind is a gentle force, but can sometimes be furious, destroying everything in its path. As such, it is intended that this poomsae is performed like the wind: gently, but knowing the ability of mass destruction with a single movement. The performer and audience should be aware of the duality of the form.

This poomse represents Water. Also, there is a relation to West and the relationship with a Second son. The movements of this Poomsae are intended to be performed like water; flowing, powerful and cleansing. Sometimes standing still like water in a lake, sometimes thriving as a river, sometimes powerful like a waterfall. The water is to symbolize calm and cleansing, while also possessing the attribute of being violent and destructive.

This poomsae represents a Mountain. Also, it represents the northwest and youngest son. The symbolism behind the mountain is the indomitable and majestic nature that all mountains possess. This Poomsae is intended to be performed with the feeling that all movements are this majestic due to their unconquerable nature.

This poomsae represents the Earth. Also, there is a representation of North and Mother. The associated trigram of this Poomsae is Yin. Yin, here, represents the end of the beginning, the evil part of all that is good. This being the last of the Poomsae Taegeuk, it represents the end of the circle and the cyclic nature of the Earth.