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Tang Soo Do, although not as popular as its Korean cousin, Tae Kwon Do, is very much at the core of Korean Martial Arts and has resisted a similar sporting path. Korean Martial Arts, in general, have survived over two milleniums to be where they are today. Over this period of time, many names and organizations have cropped up, including the term "Tang Soo Do". This term carries, with it, a link to Korea's Chinese influence, in particular, the influence of the T'ang dynasty two thousand years ago. "Soo" means "fist" and "do" means "the way". However, with Korean independence in the 20th century came the inevitable follow-up of nationalism and, subsequently, political forces renamed the heart of the Korean Martial Arts to a more Korean "Tae Kwon Do".
In spite of the politics, Tang Soo Do continues to carry a place amongst martial artists seeking the essence of traditional Korean Martial Arts. It continues to demonstrate traits that are very much Korean, such as the highly effective range of kicks, as well as the circular motion characterizing Chinese Martial Arts. Kata is practiced as well which serves to demonstrate influence from Okinawan Karate. After all is said and done, Tang Soo Do remains quite popular in its own right as is evident by its presence in numerous countries around the world.
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