What is Hapkido?
A discipline of coordination, fusing physical and mental power to cultivate fully integrated character.
Hapkido is a discipline of coordination, a way of strengthening the mind and body, of fusing an individual's physical and mental powers so that he or she will emerge as a more fully integrated human being.
The word literally means: Method or Way (DO) for the coordination & Harmony (HAP) of mental Energy or spirit (KI). One should always try to avoid violence, but if someone grabs you, attempts to strike you, or physically assaults you in any way, it has escalated beyond words, leaving self-defense as the necessary response.
Considered a "soft" style of Martial Art—as opposed to "hard" styles that practice force against force—the Hapkido practitioner diverts or suppresses an attacker's flow of energy peacefully. Through the application of leverage, joint locks, and pressure points, very little strength is needed to overcome an opponent.
Hapkido provides complete physical conditioning which improves balance, posture, flexibility, timing, quickness, muscle tone, joint strength, and confidence through physical and mental discipline.
Principle of Hapkido
- Hap (合): Means "together" and signifies the harmony of body and spirit.
- Ki (氣): Defines the internal life force and body energy.
- Do (道): Means the "way of life" and path of continuous learning.
Hapkido Philosophy
The philosophy centered around four moral pillars:
- Honesty and Moral Character
- Loyalty to Parents and Country
- Bravery in Challenges
- Protection of Family and Community
Three Core Theories of Hapkido
Essential principles to understand movements and techniques
Yu (柔) - Water
Water symbolizes adaptability. It never fights against obstacles in its path, but moves around them fluidly without losing its form, teaching us adaptability in life.
Won (圓) - Circle
The circle represents natural, continuous movement and martial progress—a spiral ascension where learning builds upon foundational mastery.
Wha (和) - Harmony
The simultaneous unification of body, mind, and technique. Achieving inner harmony enables harmony with the adversary and environment.