The History of Korean Martial Arts

Korean Martial Arts: A Brief History

Korean martial arts, also known as Hapkido, Taekwondo, and Ssireum, are centuries-old forms of combat and self-defense originating in Korea. They are distinct from other Asian martial arts such as Karate, Judo, and Aikido, and have been practiced in Korea since at least the 7th century. In this article, we'll take a look at the history and evolution of Korean martial arts and their influence on modern day martial arts.

Origins of Korean Martial Arts

Korean martial arts have a long and rich history, with the earliest known references to martial arts in Korean literature dating back to the 7th century. During this time, the martial arts of Korea were used primarily for military purposes, such as training soldiers for battle. These martial arts were also practiced by the common people as a form of self-defense and entertainment.

The development of Korean martial arts was largely influenced by the Chinese martial arts, as well as the indigenous martial arts of Korea. During the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD), the martial arts of Korea were heavily influenced by the Chinese martial arts of Kung Fu and Tai Chi Chuan. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Korean martial arts were further refined and formalized, with the development of Hapkido and Taekwondo.

Hapkido

Hapkido is a Korean martial art that combines elements of Judo, Karate, and Aikido. It is characterized by its use of joint locks and throws, as well as its emphasis on circular movements. The techniques of Hapkido are believed to have originated in the 17th century, and the art was further refined in the 19th century by a Korean monk named Choi Yong Sul.

Hapkido was popularized in the 1960s by the South Korean military, and the art continues to be practiced today. It is one of the most popular martial arts in Korea, and is also practiced in many other countries around the world.

Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that is characterized by its use of kicks and punches. It is believed to have originated in the 1940s, and was popularized in the 1950s by South Korean military leaders. Taekwondo is now one of the most popular martial arts in the world, with millions of practitioners in over 100 countries.

Taekwondo is an Olympic sport, and is also practiced in many other sporting and martial arts competitions. It is also a popular form of self-defense and exercise, and is widely practiced in schools, universities, and martial arts academies.

Ssireum

Ssireum is a traditional Korean form of wrestling that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. It is characterized by its use of grappling and submission techniques, and is a popular form of entertainment in Korea. It is also one of the most popular martial arts in Korea, and is practiced in many countries around the world.

Ssireum is still practiced in Korea today, and is also an Olympic sport. It is also a popular form of exercise, and is widely practiced in schools, universities, and martial arts academies.

Conclusion

Korean martial arts are centuries-old forms of combat and self-defense originating in Korea. They are distinct from other Asian martial arts such as Karate, Judo, and Aikido, and have been practiced in Korea since at least the 7th century. The martial arts of Korea have evolved over time, with the development of Hapkido, Taekwondo, and Ssireum. These martial arts are still popular today, and are practiced in many countries around the world.