5 Code Spirits and 7 Tenets

The 5 Code Spirits of Tang Soo Do

Be Loyal To Your Leader
Obedience to parents
Honor friendship
Always finish what you start
In fighting, choose with sense and honor

Origin

These codes are largely inspired by Won Gwang, a Buddhist monk and scholar from the Silla Dynasty (~7th century). He taught five moral rules (called Sesok O-Gye, or "Five Precepts for Laymen") to the Hwarang, an elite warrior class. These precepts became foundational to Korean martial ethics.

The original Hwarang 5 Precepts were:

Loyalty to the nation
Respect and obedience to one’s parents
Trust and loyalty among friends
Courage in battle
Justice in killing (only when necessary)

The 7 Tenets of Tang Soo Do

Integrity
Concentration
Perseverance
Respect and obedience
Self-control
Humility
Indomitable spirit

Origin

These come from a combination of:

Confucian values: especially filial piety, respect, and personal discipline.
Zen Buddhism: mental clarity and focus.
Martial adaptation: especially from Japanese karate systems, which emphasize virtues like perseverance and humility. This influence comes from the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910–1945), when many Korean martial arts were practiced in secret or influenced by Japanese karate, judo, and kendo.

The tenets weren’t formalized by ancient warriors but were codified in the 20th century by founders of martial arts schools (like Hwang Kee, founder of Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan) as part of a curriculum to develop strong character alongside physical skills.

The 5 Code Spirits are derived from ancient Korean warrior ethics, especially the Hwarang tradition via monk Won Gwang.
The 7 Tenets are a modern synthesis of Confucian, Buddhist, and Japanese martial values, structured to train not just fighters, but disciplined and respectful people.

Why We Teach the 5 Code Spirits and 7 Tenets in the Malta Tang Soo Do Association

At the Malta Tang Soo Do Association, we don’t just teach self-defense, we teach how to live with purpose, discipline, and strength of character. That’s why the 5 Code Spirits and 7 Tenets are at the heart of our training.

Why Master Wallace Values Them Deeply

Master Wallace believes martial arts should shape the whole person, not just the body. The 5 Code Spirits and 7 Tenets aren’t just words to recite, they're principles to live by. He teaches them because:

They give direction when life gets confusing.
They build resilience in the face of struggle.
They help people, young or old, become stronger, wiser, and more respectful humans, not just better martial artists.

Why They Matter for All Ages

For Young Students

Teaches respect for parents, teachers, and friends.
Builds self-control, essential for school and relationships.
Develops discipline and perseverance, key to building real confidence.

For Adults

Reinforces focus and integrity, in work, family, and personal goals.
Offers tools for stress management and mental toughness.
Encourages humility and continuous growth, no matter your age or experience.

How to Practice Them in Daily Life

In the Dojang

Show respect by bowing sincerely and helping others.
Push through difficult training with perseverance and focus.
Control emotions when sparring, win with honor, lose with humility.

In the Office or School

Integrity: Do the right thing, even when no one’s watching.
Respect and obedience: Listen to your boss, colleagues, or teachers with an open mind.
Concentration: Give your full attention to the task in front of you.

In Tough Times

No retreat in battle: Face life’s challenges head-on.
Indomitable spirit: Keep moving forward when things fall apart.
Self-control: Don’t act on anger or fear—breathe, assess, respond with strength.

At Malta Tang Soo Do, these values are not abstract ideals. They are daily tools. Master Wallace teaches them because he knows they shape lives, not just stances. Whether you're a child learning focus or an adult navigating pressure, these principles will keep you grounded, resilient, and strong.