The basic theme represented by Taegeuk Poomses is the vastness and constance of the universe. Tae - means great, while Geuk - means eternity.

Thus, Taegeuk has no form, no beginning, no ending either. Nevertheless, everything comes from Taegeuk. It contains the essence of everything. Each of the eight poomses represents one of the eight principle theories of the Yoo-yeok, Book Of Changes.

1. Taegeuk IL JANG

Motions: 18 Punches: 9 Kicks: 2

Keon represents Heaven and Light. Heaven gives us rain and the sun helps to make things grow. Keon is the beginning of everything on earth and source of creation. Taegeuk begins with Keon, namely the heaven.

2. Taegeuk YI JANG

Motions: 18 Punches: 7 Kicks: 5

Tae represents Joyfulness. One's mind is firm and appears gentle so that smile and virtue prevail. Actions are gently yet forcefully executed.

3. Taegeuk SAM JANG

Motions: 20 Punches: 14 Kicks: 6

Ri represents Fire and Sun. Fire gives light, warmth, enthusiasm and hope. The actions are varied and with passion.

4. Taegeuk SA JANG

Motions: 24 Punches: 8 Kicks: 2

Jin represents Thunder. Thunder and Lighting are objects of fear and trambling. It suggests that we act calmly and bravely even in the face of danger and fear. Then blue sky and sunlight appear.

5. Taegeuk OH JANG

Motions: 20 Punches: 0 Kicks: 6

Seon represents Wind. Wind is gentle in nature. It symbolizes the humble state of mind and expresses repetitive good natured actions. Sometimes gentle and monotonously as breeze but sometimes as forcefully as a storm.

6. Taegeuk YOOK JANG

Motions: 23 Punches: 6 Kicks: 8

Gam represents Water. Water is liquid and formless, andit never loses its nature. It teaches us that we can overcome difficulties and hardship if we go forward with self confidence.

7. Taegeuk CHIL JANG

Motions: 25 Punches: 1 Kicks: 4

Gan represents Mountain. Man learns stability. A mountain never moves. Do not act in a hasty manner. We should stop when we should and we must go forward when we must.

8. Taegeuk PAL JANG

Motions: 24 Punches: 12 Kicks: 6

Gon representsthe Earth. The Earth is the source of life. Things take life from it and grow on it, drawing limitless energy from it. The Earth is always wordless, it hugs and grows everything.