US Hwa Rang Kwan
Kumdo is called "the way of human formation" because that is the official ideology of the Korea Kumdo Association: "the way of human formation through training in the principles of the sword." In other words, the goal of Kumdo training is not only to win with the sword but to build a person's character, and the association says mind training and technique training have to go together.
What is the official ideology of Kumdo?
The Korea Kumdo Association (대한검도회) states the ideology of Kumdo in one sentence: Kumdo is "the way of human formation through training in the principles of the sword." In its own definition, the association calls Kumdo a sport in which two people in armor strike each other with bamboo swords, and also a martial art that trains the body and mind through repeated practice and pursues right character.
The association adds that a high level of Kumdo, and good character, can only be reached when the mind and technique are trained together.
What are the three purposes of Kumdo?
The Korea Kumdo Association lists three purposes:
- Keep proper courtesy. The association calls courtesy the most basic standard of behavior between people. It warns that if courtesy is lost, only fighting with the sword may be stressed, and that practitioners must guard against this.
- Keep the body and mind healthy. Build strength and skill through training, and take pride and joy in enduring and overcoming hardship.
- Keep faith. A sword is to be used for what is right. The association calls this hwaringeom (활인검), "the life-giving sword."
What mindset does Kumdo training ask for?
The Korea Kumdo Association also publishes seven points of mindset for training:
- Learn Kumdo correctly and seriously.
- Train the body and mind to build strong energy.
- Respect courtesy through the character of Kumdo.
- Value trust and give your best to everything.
- Always work on self-discipline.
- Love your country and society.
- Contribute widely to the peace and prosperity of humanity.
How does etiquette shape Kumdo practice?
The association's etiquette guide says that Kumdo begins and ends with courtesy (예). Before a match, the two players walk to the bowing line, stand upright and bow to each other at 15 degrees before stepping forward to the starting line. Toward the head table, they bow at 30 degrees. At the start and end of training, practitioners also salute the national flag hung in the dojang by placing the right hand over the left side of the chest.
The match rules carry the same idea. A point can be taken back if a player celebrates too much after a strike.
FAQ
What does "human formation" mean in Kumdo?
It means building a person's character. The Korea Kumdo Association's ideology is "the way of human formation through training in the principles of the sword."
Why is etiquette so important in Kumdo?
The Korea Kumdo Association's first purpose of Kumdo is courtesy. It warns that if courtesy is lost, Kumdo can become only about fighting with the sword.
What is hwaringeom?
Hwaringeom (활인검) means "the life-giving sword." The Korea Kumdo Association uses it for the idea that a sword is to be used for what is right.
Is Kumdo only about sword fighting?
No. The association describes Kumdo as both a sport and a martial art that trains the body and mind and aims at right character.
Train with US Hwa Rang Kwan
US Hwa Rang Kwan Kumdo is certified by the Korea Kumdo Association and teaches students 7 years and older in Chantilly, Virginia and Ellicott City, Maryland. 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.
