Founder Hwang Kee originally wished to name the style Hwa Soo Do, art of flower hand.
When Hwang Kee refused to transfer to Tae Kwan Do, he was imprisoned for several years, 7 or 8, as punishment. Name Tang Soo Do is loosely translated as Karate, empty hand, as well, but art of china hand is more accurate. the tenth gup in Tang soo do is not a black belt, but a midnight blue belt. often instructors will give black belts instead to avoid confusion.
While some people view Tang soo do as the same as Tae kwan do, there are major diffrences. Keep in mind, Tang soo do is the national martial art of korea, while tae kwan do is the national SPORT of korea.

Codey Sivley
7th gup Red belt,
Student of Jamie Webster, 6th dan black belt.

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