Belt (Ti)
In TaeKwon-Do, there are six colours of belts, White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red and Black. These colours have not been randomly chosen, in fact they are steeped with tradition. The colours of black, red and blue denoted the various levels of hierarchy during the Koguryo and Silla Dynasties.
The main purpose of the belt in Taekwon-Do is to represent the philosophical significance of the Taekwon-Do practitioner as well as to distinguish the rank. Therefore it was decided at a special meeting of the directors on 1 July 1985 that the belt should be wrapped around the waist only once instead of twice as originally practiced.
The belt is tied around the waist once to symbolise:
Pursue one goal, once it is determined
Serve one master with unshakeable loyalty
Gain victory in one blow.
Colour Definitions
White - Signifies innocence as that of the beginning student who has no previous knowledge of Taekwon-do.
Yellow - Signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root as Taekwon-do foundation is being laid.
Green - Signifies the plants growth as the Taekwon-do skill begins to develop.
Blue - Signifies the heaven towards which the plant matures into a towering tree as training in Taekwon-do progresses.
Red - Signifies danger, cautioning the student to exercise control and warning the opponent to stay away.
Black - Opposite of white, therefore signifying maturity and proficiency in Taekwon-do. It also indicates the wearers imperviousness to darkness and fear.