The forms of TaeKwonDo are generally referred to as traditional Korean forms. This is due primarily to the fact that these forms have little or no alterations from their original creation. These forms are also traditional in the light that much of the symbolism used in earlier times remains an important part of the significance of the forms.

Symbols have been an important part of Korean culture for centuries. Before written language the use of symbols was a common occurrence in everyday life for people. Instructors of the Korean arts of self-defense have used a variety of symbols to pass on the secrets of the forms that they train in to their students. Instructors taught their students symbols which include animals such as birds and snakes, flowers, plants, and insects, all to help the person to gain a clear image and understanding of what technique can be applied in a situation, where the technique may have originated from, and the successful use of the technique.

The three Naihanchi or Chulgi (Iron Horse) forms are all represented by strong powerful movements of a horse.

All of the different symbols which are found in TaeKwonDo forms, be it bird, snake, or bear, each has its own set of characteristics that are unique to it. Each has its own place in nature. The skills that the animal has enable it to survive by obtaining food and defending itself. Instructors used these symbols to help pass on the secrets of the forms to their students. The symbols represented are not confrontational. They all avoid conflict unless it is necessary to fight. These symbols didn't just tie into the practice of forms but also to art, personal awareness, and other facets of everyday life.

Many of the forms represent different animals from nature. The different movements of the form symbolize characteristics and traits of the animals that are represented in the form. Hand movements can represent the fluttering and flapping of a birds wings. Striking with the fingers can represent the snake using it's fangs to strike or a bird attacking with its beak. One-legged stances are like birds standing on one leg representing patience and balance. Many forms techniques are derived in this way. Some of the techniques may even be associated with the killing techniques of the many different birds and animals found in the different regions.

Bassai is represented by the lightning quick strikes of the cobra.

This can be seen in the movements and in the names of the forms. A few of the advanced and black belt forms are pictured here.

At times there is a misunderstanding about the name of a form. Although many of the forms are represented by animals and other symbols, the names don't always translate to the symbol that is represented in the forms.

Kong Sang Koon is represented by an eagle in battle while in flight using variety of strikes and angles of attack.

Often times the name of the form is associated with a person who first taught it in the area or place where the form may have been popularized. For example the Naihanchi (Chulgi) forms are thus named because they are the first forms from the city of Na Ha. Jion is named after the Jion temple in China. Jindo (Chinto), Kang Sang Koon, and Whang Shu are all named after the man who popularized the forms.

Chipsoo symbolizes the strength and power of the bear.

The symbolization of animals in forms was used by the instructor to show the student desirable characteristics while performing the forms. Many of the older forms all have some sort of symbol represented in them that gives them an aesthetic touch. Unfortunately many of the modern forms are lacking the symbols associated with them like their older counterparts.

Rohai represents the heron with its patience, balance, speed and perfected single attack as a defense.

The symbols used in TaeKwonDo are tied into the Korean people's culture and history. The symbols used in the forms help provide a deeper understanding of the concepts that are in the forms well as a deeper understanding of Korean people and their culture. The association of the different symbols in TaeKwonDo forms provides a unique learning experience for the individual as they train in this traditional Korean martial art.

TaeKwonDo forms have many strong linear attacks and defenses as well as circular motions used in them. This mixture gives the forms a blend of powerful, quick, and smooth techniques that are represented by different symbols from nature.