Dr. He-young
KIMM
FOUNDER of HAN MU DO
Dr. He-Young Kimm is the founder of Han Mu Do, a revered master amongst his peers, and scholar and accomplished author in the field of Korean martial arts. Dr. Kimm’s lifelong journey in martial arts began in 1953 and has been marked by his deep commitment to mastering and integrating the physical, mental, and spiritual elements of martial arts.
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Early Life and Martial Arts Development
Dr. He-Young Kimm, born on January 17, 1940, began his martial arts training in 1953, studying under multiple masters across various disciplines, including YuDo, BiSool, Hapkido, and Tae Kwon Do. His journey through martial arts was characterized by an unwavering commitment to mastering both the physical and philosophical aspects of each discipline. Through his extensive training, Dr. Kimm gained profound insights into the essence of Korean martial arts, which prepared him for his future role as a martial arts leader and innovator.
Establishment of Han Mu Do
In 1989, drawing upon his diverse background and expertise, Dr. Kimm founded Han Mu Do, a martial art that epitomizes balance and integration. Han Mu Do, or "The Way of Korean Martial Arts," reflects a harmonious blend of empty hand and weapons techniques, combined with a deep understanding of Ki (energy) principles. This martial art system emphasizes the importance of balancing physical skills with spiritual and philosophical growth, aiming to cultivate well-rounded martial artists who excel in all facets of life.
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Contributions to Martial Arts Literature and Philosophy
As an accomplished author, Dr. Kimm has enriched the martial arts community with extensive literary works that explore the depths of Korean martial arts history and philosophy. His seminal publications, such as "Kuk Sool: Traditional Korean Martial Arts" and "Philosophy of Masters," have set standards in martial arts scholarship. "Philosophy of Masters" is especially renowned for its exploration of ancient Korean Buddhist teachings, coupled with Dr. Kimm's own photography, highlighting his dual talents as a scholar and visual artist. Continuing his leadership role, Dr. Kimm remains at the forefront of the World Hanmudo Association, guiding both the philosophical discourse and practical application of martial arts techniques worldwide.