Hapkido, the Martial Art - The Way of Coordination and Internal Power

If you mention Korean martial arts, the first which came to mind is the Olympic sport of Taekwondo. There is another martial art originated from the ancient fighting art of Korea. It utilises kicks and strikes just like Taekwondo. However, it also combines manipulation techniques, including joint locks, throws and deflections. This combative art is Hapkido, which means "the way of coordination and internal power".

Hapkido was founded by Choi Yong-Sul. It is a highly refined self-defence system. Furthermore, this combativel art is also a way to expand its practitioner's physical and mental consciousness. The practitioner of Hapkido will learn and understand human anatomy and the universal energy known as "ki". Simply by learning the various defensive and offensive technique of Hapkido is not sufficient for a practitioner to advance to a higher rank. To progress to the advanced levels, a deeper understanding of the philosophical nature of combat and life must also be acquired by the practitioners.

This combative art is closely linked to the Japanese martial art of Aikido than Taekwondo. Many martial art practitioner, mistakenly believe Hapkido originated from Aikido. There is a link between Aikido and Hapkido. Morihei Ueshiba the founder of Aikido and the founder of Hapkido, Choi Yong-Sul had both studied Daito-ryu Aikijujitsu with Takeda Sokaku in early twentieth century.

Hapkido aims to be a complete martial art and system of self-defence. It is not restrained by many of the traditional formalities that limit the other combative arts. Hapkido is developed in such a way that the practitioner may learn the various methods of defense and apply them in a unique and individual manner should the need arise.