Introduction. Modern taekwondo is a relatively young sport, occupies a special place in martial arts as an Olympic sport. Despite the fact that the prevalence of taekwondo is growing in Ukraine every year, in order to spread this sport among various segments of the population, it is necessary to study its potential and the main stages of development. The aim of the study is to characterize the formation and development of taekwondo in Ukraine based on the analysis of its current versions, sporting achievements and promising areas. Material and methods. The following methods were used in the research process: general scientific (logical, induction); analysis and synthesis of scientific and methodological literature and Internet sources; historical (retrospective) method. Results. It is determined that taekwondo, as a harmonious combination of two components (spiritual discipline and perfect technique), is a mixed martial art and is actively developing in Ukraine. The analysis and historical peculiarities of taekwondo development as a kind of oriental martial arts are analyzed, in particular, its current state and tendencies of development as an Olympic sport are considered. The modern structure of taekwondo, which is dominated by ITF, WT and GTF versions, is considered, their potential and main characteristics are revealed. It was found that Ukrainian taekwondo athletes are a worthy competition to European and world high-class athletes, which best contributes to the development and spread of this sport among schoolchildren and young people. Conclusions. Today there are several versions of modern taekwondo in the world, which are also presented in Ukraine. Indicators that indicate the active development of taekwondo in Ukraine can be considered: a fairly high popularity of taekwondo among the population; a significant number of competitions of all-Ukrainian, European and international level, which are included in the calendar of the Taekwondo Federation (WTF) of Ukraine; the success of the performances of our athletes in the international arena. Trends in taekwondo include improving sports equipment, improving competition rules, expanding competitive and training experience, using technical means, improving health control systems and rehabilitating athletes.