US Hwa Rang Kwan
Kumdo equipment includes the dobok (uniform), the hogu (protective armor), the jukdo (bamboo sword) and the mokgeom (wooden sword). The hogu has four parts that protect the head and face, the wrists, the chest and body, and the area below the waist. In a match, two players in hogu strike set target areas with the jukdo.
This list comes from the Korea Kumdo Association, the national body for Kumdo in Korea. Size rules below are from the association's match and refereeing rules.
What sword is used in Kumdo?
Jukdo (bamboo sword)
The jukdo is the sword used for sparring and matches. The Korea Kumdo Association's rules say it is made of four bamboo slats. The rules also set a maximum length and a minimum weight by age group:
- Middle school: up to 114 cm long; at least 440 g (male) or 400 g (female)
- High school: up to 117 cm long; at least 480 g (male) or 420 g (female)
- University and adult: up to 120 cm long; at least 510 g (male) or 440 g (female)
The round guard on the sword, called the kodeungi, is made of leather or a synthetic material and may be no more than 9 cm across.
Mokgeom (wooden sword)
The mokgeom is a wooden sword. The Korea Kumdo Association lists it as part of the standard equipment.
What armor do Kumdo players wear?
The armor is called hogu. According to the Korea Kumdo Association, it has four parts:
- Homyeon: protects the head and face
- Howan: gloves that protect the wrists
- Gap: protects the chest and body
- Gapsang: wraps around the waist and below
The association notes that the armor can be used semi-permanently. In a match, players are told apart by a red or white ribbon tied at the back of the gap strings.
The Korea Kumdo Association says a beginner can learn the basics in about three months and can then start wearing hogu.
What is the Kumdo uniform?
The uniform is called a dobok. The Korea Kumdo Association says it is white or navy and has a separate top and bottom.
FAQ
What is Kumdo armor called?
Hogu. Its four parts are the homyeon, howan, gap and gapsang.
What is a Kumdo sword called?
The bamboo sword is a jukdo. The wooden sword is a mokgeom.
How long is a Kumdo sword?
Under the Korea Kumdo Association's rules, an adult jukdo may be up to 120 cm long. Middle and high school students use shorter swords.
What color is the Kumdo uniform?
White or navy, according to the Korea Kumdo Association.
Do beginners need armor right away?
No. The Korea Kumdo Association says the basics take about three months before a beginner can start wearing armor.
Start Kumdo at US Hwa Rang Kwan
US Hwa Rang Kwan Kumdo teaches students 7 years and older in Chantilly, Virginia and Ellicott City, Maryland. To ask about equipment for your first classes, contact the dojang. New students at the Chantilly, VA dojang can start with 3 semi-private lessons for $19.99. For Ellicott City, please contact us before you visit.
