The Nine Principles of Gungdo (Traditional Korean Archery)

In-ae-deok-haeng (仁愛德行)
Practice benevolence and virtuous action: Show love and kindness to others through your deeds.

Seong-sil-gyeom-son (誠實謙遜)
Sincerity and humility: Be truthful in word and action; remain humble and avoid arrogance.

Ja-jung-jeol-jo (自重節操)
Self-respect and integrity: Be prudent in your conduct and remain steadfast in your principles.

Ye-ui-eom-su (禮儀嚴守)
Strict adherence to etiquette: Maintain proper manners and a dignified posture at all times.

Yeom-jik-gwa-gam (廉直果敢)
Many people question the conventional interpretation of this phrase as meaning, “Be upright and honest, and once you have set your will, act with bold determination.” In this context, however, 廉 (yeom) should not be understood as “integrity” or “incorruptibility.” Rather, it is more appropriate to interpret it as meaning “to examine carefully” or “to consider closely.” When understood in this way, the phrase can be read in relation to the practice of archery: it suggests carefully observing and correctly assessing the target, the distance, the wind, and other conditions, and then releasing the arrow with decisive boldness.

Seup-sa-mu-eon (習射無言)
Silence during practice: Refrain from unnecessary talking while practicing archery to maintain focus.

Jeong-sim-jeong-gi (正心正己)
Right mind, right body: Keep both your heart and your physical posture upright and balanced.

Bul-won-seung-ja (不怨勝者)
Do not resent the winner: If you lose, do not harbor ill will toward those who excelled.

Mak-man-ta-gung (莫彎他弓)
Do not draw another’s bow: Respect the equipment of others and do not handle it without permission.