The colour of the belts used in Hapkido is by no means merely some random selection of colours to distinguish the different ranks. . Such advancement signifies not only growth within the dojang (training hall), but that of positive character and growth by the student outside of the dojang. The interpretation of the belt colours symbolises the growth and development of all things in nature, as a seed grows with earth, water and air in a tree so does the martial art student gain knowledge, skill and understanding to become a master of his own destiny.
White signifies a birth, or beginning, of a seed. A white belt student is a beginner searching for knowledge of the Art.
Orange signifies the rising of the sun before the first beam of light, it is when a student rises and to start enhancing their foundation. This is the when students start to increase their knowledge beyond the basics.
Yellow signifies the first beam of sunlight which shines upon the seed giving it new strength with the beginning of new life. A yellow belt student is given his/her first ray of knowledge, opening his mind, from an instructor.
Green signifies the growth of the seed as it sprouts from the earth reaching toward the sun and begins to grow into a plant. A green belt student learns to further develop and refine his/her techniques.
Blue signifies the blue sky as the plant continues to grow toward it. A blue belt student moves up higher in rank just as the plant grows taller. The light feeds the plant so it can continue to grow. The student is fed additional knowledge of the Art in order for his/her body and mind continue to grow and develop.
Brown signifies the intense heat of the Sun as the plant continues growing toward it. A brown belt student is higher in rank (Senior Student). They acquire more detailed knowledge and, just as the plant grows strong and slowly toward the Sun, so the brown belt student learns to be more vigilant as their knowledge and physical abilities increase.
Red signifies the red-hot heat of the Sun as the plant continues growing toward it. A red belt student is higher in rank, he/she acquires more detailed knowledge and, just as the plant grows slowly toward the Sun, so the red belt student learns to be more cautious as his/her knowledge and physical abilities increase.
Black signifies the darkness beyond the Sun. A black belt seeks new knowledge of the Art. As he/she begins to teach others, he/she begins planting new seeds, his/her students, many of which will take root deep into the Art, blossom and grow through the ranks in a never-ending process of self-growth, knowledge, and enlightenment.