Tiger Kim’s Academy since 1976, has incorporated the three major Korean martial arts of Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Founded by Grandmaster Tiger Kim, the school reflects his many years of diverse martial arts training.

Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do are the main components and the primary focus at Tiger Kim’s which certifies black belts throughout the world from its headquarters in Seoul, Korea (The Kukkiwon). Literally, Taekwondo means “the way of the foot and the hand”. The History and Traditions of Taekwondo can be traced back into ancient times in Korea. Many of the long-standing traditions are still upheld at Tiger Kim’s Academy. At this academy, students learn various forms (Poom Sae) from the arts of Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do. They also learn self-defense and sparring techniques which are practiced with a partner. During Taekwondo class, each student wears a white uniform (Do Bok) with the belt of their rank. Beyond the physical techniques, students also learn the traditions of respect and discipline.

Taekwondo Promotion Rank Testing is held every three months (March, June, September and December) normally the first week of the month. Testing gives the students the opportunity to increase their rank by performing physical techniques, and demonstrating knowledge via a written and or oral test. Testing is not only to increase rank, it is also a learning experience designed to increase the students’ knowledge. With dedication, perseverance and commitment towards one’s goal and becoming a Black Belt can be earned within two and a half years by an average student.

Physical fitness and knowledge of self-defense are only part of the rewards of be coming a Black Belt. One also learns confidence, discipline and self-control. A well-trained martial artist does not use his skill carelessly or out of fear, but instead uses it only when he or she has no other choice. Resolving a situation without conflict is the highest of ideals and achievements.

Taekwondo is an Official Olympic sport with competitors in over 200 countries. It is recognized by the United States Taekwondo, United States Olympic and International Olympic Committee. Taekwondo as a sport is a very demanding, competitors must still observe the traditions of respect, self-control and good sportsmanship.

Tang Soo Do is another part of Tiger Kim’s Academy, many of the techniques and philosophies of Tang Soo Do are the same as those of Taekwondo. Tang Soo Do training also involves the practice of various weapons for increased concentration, exercise and use in competitions and demonstrations. For this reason, Black Belts trained by Grandmaster Tiger Kim and Master Tiger Kim are qualified as Black Belts by the Tiger Kim’s Academy, World Taekwondo Federation, Kukkiwon in Seoul, Korea and the World Taekwondo Moo Duk Gwon. Hapkido is also taught as part of Tiger Kim’s Academy curriculum. Hapkido is taught as a self defense when you cannot kick or when you’re being grabbed. Hapkido incorporates Taekwondo techniques as well as Taekwondo blocks, strikes and kicks. The Hapkido arsenal includes grabbing, throwing, falling, jumping, and joint locking techniques.

During class, students wear white uniforms. Black Belt Instructors deserve a level high of respect as Instructors are 4th Dan and higher also training over ten years before they can teach a class.