Keumgang (금강)

Keumgang is the second black belt poomsae in the Kukkiwon / World Taekwondo system. The term Keumgang means “diamond” or “mountain of strength,” representing unbreakable firmness and stability. The form contains 27 movements emphasizing strength, balance, and calm power, with rooted stances and deliberate transitions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Begin in ready stance (Joon-bi).
  2. Step forward into left front stance → double forearm block.
  3. Step forward into right front stance → right upper palm strike.
  4. Step forward into left front stance → left upper palm strike.
  5. Step back into left back stance → left inward knifehand block.
  6. Step back into right back stance → right inward knifehand block.
  7. Look left → raise left leg into crane stance → perform diamond block.
  8. Turn left 90° → horse stance → right hook punch + left back elbow strike simultaneously.
  9. Step forward → spin 360° (maintain horse stance) → right hook punch + left back elbow strike together.
  10. Turn left 90° → horse stance → mountain block → Kihap!
  11. Step forward → turn 180° into horse stance → double forearm block.
  12. Slide left foot into parallel stance → slow double low block.
  13. Step forward with left foot → turn right 180° → horse stance → mountain block.
  14. Turn right 180° → crane stance (right leg raised) → diamond block.
  15. Step forward into horse stance → left hook punch + right back elbow strike.
  16. Step forward → spin 360° (maintain horse stance) → left hook punch + right back elbow strike together.
  17. Lift right leg into crane stance → diamond block.
  18. Turn left 90° → horse stance → mountain block → Kihap!
  19. Step forward → turn 180° left → horse stance → double forearm block.
  20. Slide right foot into parallel stance → slow double low block.
  21. Step forward → turn 180° left → horse stance → mountain block.
  22. Turn 90° → lift left leg into crane stance → diamond block.
  23. Turn 90° → drop left foot into horse stance → right hook punch + left back elbow strike.
  24. Return to ready stance (Joon-bi).

Keumgang symbolizes unshakable resolve and purity of purpose, like a diamond that cannot be broken. Movements are firm yet controlled, combining grace and strength. Practitioners should maintain grounded stances, steady rhythm, and calm breathing throughout the form.

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