Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that emphasizes kicking techniques, although it also incorporates hand strikes, blocks, and various forms of grappling and self-defense techniques. It was developed during the 1940s and 1950s as a blend of various traditional Korean martial arts, influenced by both Chinese martial arts and Japanese martial arts such as karate. Taekwondo became an official Olympic sport in 2000 and is known for its dynamic and powerful kicks, as well as its focus on discipline, respect, and self-control. It is practiced worldwide and has various styles and organizations, such as the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) and International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF).
