The History and Transformation of Women's Taekwondo Practice : Changes in Gender Perceptions from the 1960s to the Present

This study explores the historical development of women’s Taekwondo practice in South Korea from the 1960s to the present, focusing on shifts in gender perception. It identifies three key periods: the marginalization of female practitioners under patriarchal structures (1960–1989), institutional integration and expanding roles through democratization (1990–2009), and the emergence of gender sensitivity and female leadership (2010–present).<br/> Women's participation in Taekwondo has evolved from symbolic resistance to a transformative cultural practice that challenges gender norms. The study recommends gender sensitivity training for instructors, institutional support for female leadership, and the creation of inclusive content. It positions Taekwondo as a dynamic platform for gender identity formation and social change in sports.