The following pages are taken from the Taekwon-do encyclopedia. Written by the late General Choi Hong Hi. (The Founder of Taekwon-do.)
Soldiers are as strong as the general who leads them, and, in a like manner, students can only excel under an excellent instructor. We cannot expect a bambo to grow in a field of reeds, nor can we expect to find an outstanding pupil under an unqualified teacher.
It is of particular importance that the two aspects of Taekwon-do, the spirit and the technique, must be taught together. Therefore, a qualified instructor must combine the qualities of a scholar and a soldier if he is to produce pupils of noble character and outstanding skills.
Such an instructor must possess the following qualities:
- Strong moral and ethical standards.
- Clear outlook and philosophy in life.
- Responsible attitude as an instructor.
- Scientific mind in matters of technique.
- Knowledge of the vital spots of human anatomy.
- Unshakable integrity in political and financial dealings.
- Dedication to spread the art of Taekwon-do throughout the world.
- One who gains confidence from his seniors, is trusted by his fellow instructors, and is respected by his juniors.
