04/03/2026
Great work out this morning with Grand Master MK Lee. Looking forward to Saturday.
🟥 Tournament Etiquette Spotlight: Honoring Our Senior Ranks 🟥
‘Twas the night before the tournament, and Grand Master MK Lee was in the house…
We had the honor of speaking with Grand Master MK Lee himself and asked for a piece of wisdom he’d like to share with our ATA family — especially school owners, parents, and students — to help elevate our tournament experience and strengthen our Songahm culture.
Here’s what he shared about one of the most important traditions in Taekwondo:
Proper Bowing and Addressing Senior Ranks (4th Degree Black Belt and Higher)
In the ATA, achieving 4th Degree Black Belt is a tremendous milestone — the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to mastery, leadership, and discipline. Because our region is blessed with many senior ranks, it’s important to know exactly how to show proper respect when they are present.
Here are the key guidelines straight from Grand Master MK Lee:
1. Getting the Attention of Two or More Seniors 🥋
☝🏻If two or more senior ranks (4th Degree+) are already in conversation and you’d like to speak with them:
→ Stand at a respectful distance with your right hand supported (ready position).
→ Wait patiently until one of the seniors acknowledges you.
→ Only then should you begin speaking.
2. Bowing When You’re in Dobok and Near a Senior. As a competitor walking around the tournament venue in your dobok:🥋
☝🏻 If you make eye contact with a senior rank (4th Degree or higher), respond with a controlled, proper Taekwondo bow.
A bow in this moment is a simple but powerful way to acknowledge their rank and show respect.
Why Bowing Matters in Songahm Culture
In our Songahm Taekwondo family, a bow is much more than a formality. It is:
• A sign of respect
• An acknowledgment of an answer or instruction
• An expression of appreciation and gratitude
Bowing is good for the soul — and it honors the dedication and achievements of the senior and masters who guide our region.
School owners, instructors, parents, and students — let’s all do our part to model excellent etiquette this weekend.
Any specific questions about tournament protocol? As always, please refer to your instructor first.
We can’t wait to see you all on Saturday — bringing your best skills and your best respectful bowing!