The Color of Belts used in Hapkido is not a random selection of colors to distinguish the different belt ranks. The advancement of a rank not only signifies the growth in the studio but that of positive character and growth outside of the studio. The interpretation of the belt colors symbolizes the growth and development of nature.

White Belt  
 
White Belt signifies a birth or the beginning of a seed. A white belt is a beginner searching for knowledge of the art.

Yellow Belt

Yellow Belt signifies the first beam of sunlight that shines on the seed giving it new strength with the beginning of new life. A yellow belt has been given his/her first ray of knowledge from their instructor.

Green Belt

Green Belt signifies the growth of the seed as it sprouts and begins to grow into a plant reaching toward the sun. A green belt learns to further develop and refine his/her techniques.

Blue Belt

Blue Belt signifies the blue sky as the plant continues to grow towards it. The blue belt student moves up in rank just as the plant grows taller. The blue belt is fed more knowledge of the Art so that his/her body and mind will continue to grow and develop.

Brown Belt

Brown Belt signifies the intense heat of the sun as the plant continues to grow towards it. The brown belt is a higher rank they require more detailed knowledge, just as the plant grows strong and slowly toward the Sun, so the brown belt student learns to be more vigilant as knowledge and physical abilities increase.

Red Belt

Red Belt signifies the red hot heat of the sun as the plant continues to grow towards it. The brown belt is a higher rank they require more detailed knowledge, just as the plant grows strong and slowly toward the Sun, so the brown belt student learns to be more vigilant as knowledge and physical abilities increase.

Black Belt

Black Belt signifies the darkness beyond the sun. A Black belt seeks new knowledge of the Art. As he/she begins teaching 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, and knowledge.