What does the highest ranking student say at the beginning of class?

• A. Bow to the Flag
• B. Sa-bum-nim Kay Kyung-nay
• C. Ready Position
• D. Begin with a Chant

Answer: (B)

In Taekwondo etiquette, the opening of class centers on showing respect to the instructor. The senior student acts as the cue for the group and specifically calls for respect to the master by saying the phrase that means bow to the sabumnim. Sabumnim is the highest-ranking instructor, so this spoken cue directly signals everyone to bow to the master before starting the training. It sets the tone of discipline and reverence that underpins how classes begin.

Bow to the Flag is a separate ritual that some schools perform, but it’s not the cue given by the top student to greet the instructor. Ready Position is simply a stance used during drills, not a spoken instruction to start the class. Beginning with a Chant might occur in some schools, but the traditional opening cue from the senior student is to bow to the sabumnim.