Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido

Modern Self-Defense. Rooted in Tradition.

Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido is a modern defensive tactics system founded on the core principles of classical Hapkido, streamlined for practical application in today’s world. While traditional Hapkido offers an expansive curriculum that can take decades to fully master, Jeong Do Kwan distills the most essential, effective techniques and strategies to create a direct and powerful path to personal protection.

The program draws from a diverse blend of sources, including various Hapkido kwans (lineages) and modern Korean combative systems such as Kyong Chal Mu Sul (Korean police martial arts), Sil Jeon Mu Sul (real combat martial arts), and Tuk Kong Mu Sul (special forces martial arts). These influences are further rooted in the classical techniques of Aikijujutsu, the Japanese martial art that served as the foundation of original Hapkido.

This synthesis creates a well-rounded curriculum that honors tradition while staying focused on real-world application. Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido is more robust than a basic self-defense course, yet more accessible and relevant than traditional programs that often include ornate or outdated material.

Curriculum Overview

Students of Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido will train in:

Standing Combat Techniques – Including strikes, joint locks, pressure points, blocks, and throws.

Ground Defense & Control – Practical escapes, submissions, and positional control for real-world encounters.

Weaponry – Defense and practical use of everyday weapons such as the stick (dan bong), short staff, and knife.

Situational Awareness & Conflict De-escalation – Emphasizing not only the physical, but the psychological and strategic aspects of combat.

The program intentionally excludes elements such as acrobatic breakfalls, aerial kicks, or ceremonial weapons that are no longer relevant in contemporary environments. Instead, it prioritizes efficiency, accessibility, and adaptability.

The Philosophy of Jeong Do

The name Jeong Do translates to "the way of the true sword." As described by martial historian Henry Lee in The Invincible Sulsa, it reflects a code of conduct rooted in honor, courage, and unwavering integrity:

“Jeong do is the way of the true sword. It means fighting in battle with honor and dignity, dueling to the death, never retreating in the face of the enemy, and dying if one must.”

Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido embraces this warrior ethos and applies it to modern life. Our focus is on defending with discipline, responding with courage, and walking a path of purpose.

Who It's For

Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido is ideal for:

• Adults seeking a serious, practical self-defense system rooted in martial tradition.

• Martial artists from other disciplines looking to expand their knowledge with a modern Korean combative system.

• Law enforcement, security professionals, and responsible civilians in need of functional skills for high-stress environments.

• Individuals seeking personal growth, confidence, and discipline through martial study.

Whether you're new to martial arts or a seasoned practitioner, Jeong Do Kwan Hapkido offers a focused curriculum that blends tradition with modern practicality.

A Living System

Jeong Do Kwan is not static. It is a living system, evolving through continued research, field testing, and refinement by experienced instructors. We preserve the essence of Hapkido while discarding what no longer serves the modern martial artist. Our goal is not to replicate the past—but to honor it while preparing for the realities of the present.