Hapkido - English PDF
Hapkido - English PDF
Produced by: 
Kenneth A. Pilch 
in association with: 
Master Yong Chin Pak 
The Meaning Behind Belt Colors 
 
Each belt color symbolizes the growth of the student.  A beginner, or white belt, knows 
nothing about the martial arts and is like a blank sheet of paper.  As the student studies and 
his knowledge increases, the color of his belt darkens.  The black belt is a symbol of mastery 
of the basics and it encompasses all of the previous colors.  Although the black belt 
represents mastery of the basics, it is not the end of the journey.  The student must strive to 
incorporate the martial arts into all areas of life, only then can one be a true master. 
 
Following are some of the ideas behind the individual belt colors of the martial arts: 
 
 
 
White:  Starlight, purity, nothingness, fresh soil. 
Yellow:  Sunrise, warmth, energy necessary for growth. 
Orange:  Morning sun, new growth, youth. 
Green:  Mid-day sun, active growth, spring time, plants and trees. 
Blue:  Afternoon sky, mature growth, reaching toward higher goals. 
Brown/Red:  Evening sun, strengthening of roots, foundation, earth, resolve. 
Black:  Night, absorption of knowledge, all colors combined, beginning. 
Hapkido 
"The Way oI CoordInated Iower" 
Hapkido is a soft-style martial art which integrates joint locks, pressure points, kicks 
and strikes for a complete system of self-defense.  It is a compilation of a Japanese art 
known as Daito-Ryu Aiki-Jutsu and the Korean kicking art Tae-Kyon. 
 
Three basic principles are involved in all Hapkido techniques: YU (flowing, as in water), 
WON (circle principle), and HWA (non-resistance or harmony).  In addition to the physical 
aspects of Hapkido, students also learn Korean customs and courtesies. 
 
Unlike most martial arts, Hapkido is strictly defensive.  Most techniques learned in 
Hapkido redirect an attackers force instead of meeting it head on.  There are no tournaments 
or contests in Hapkido.  Hopefully, a Hapkido student will train a lifetime and never use his 
skill anywhere outside the do-jang. 
 
Meditation and proper breathing are taught, beginning at the white belt level.  Students 
will learn how to focus and utilize ki (internal energy).  By focusing his ki, a student gains 
power and strength. 
 
Hapkido helps instill confidence, discipline, respect, honor and perseverance along with 
the practical skills needed to survive a real world situation. 
Three Principals 
"Y1 WON HWA" 
All of the Hapkido techniques practiced during class encompass at least one of the 
three principles of Hapkido.  In order to better understand the physical aspects, you should 
know the principles of Yu, Won and Hwa.  A student should be able to explain and 
demonstrate each principle as it applies to a technique.  Although some techniques are better 
examples of one principle or another, each principle can be applied to every Hapkido 
technique. 
 
Yu 
"The Water PrncpIe" 
Water holds many meanings, primarily adaptability and softness.  One need only 
look around his environment to see the strength and power of water over the earth.  There 
are huge valleys created by rivers.  Thunderstorms can wreak havoc on a field one 
month, and provide needed nourishment the next.  Electric current, which weve become 
dependent on, is generated from the flowing of water. 
Water does not struggle with anything it encounters.  When water encounters a rock, 
it may flow over it, around it or even under it.  If these options are not available, water will 
be patient, gathering in a pool until it can overcome the rock. 
Water also holds many forms.  It can be a liquid, a solid or a gas.  But in any form, 
water does not change its composition.  Water also has no shape or distinct form  it will 
adapt to any container it is put in.  In Hapkido, a student must be able to adapt to the 
situation, but not sacrifice himself or his beliefs. 
An example of a Hapkido technique using the water principle is the Korean two-step.  
In doing this technique, you flow around your opponent and attack from every direction.  
Adapt the flowing principles of water to augment your Hapkido techniques as well as your 
daily life. 
Won 
"The CrcIe PrncpIe" 
The circle is an important figure in Hapkido.  In movement it represents smooth 
flowing motion as opposed to straight or linear movement.  Force is not met with force; 
rather it is redirected away from the Hapkido defender.  Ones personal space is a circle, 
into which none may enter.  The circle also represents that invisible and ever changing 
range at which strikes and further out, kicks will be a danger to the Hapkidoist. 
Won also represents the circle of life.  We start our Hapkido life as a white belt 
beginner.  After years of study and progression up the ranks, the student achieves black 
belt, only to find that they have come the complete circle and are now beginners again.  
Outside of the do-jang, we begin life dependent on others.  Often, after living a full life, the 
circle is completed as we end life again dependent on others. 
Hapkido is full of circular motion; almost every technique applies this principle, in one 
way or another, especially airplane, backspin and any throw. 
 
Hwa 
"The Non-Besstance or Harmony PrncpIe" 
Hwa is one of the hardest principles for the Hapkido student to learn, and one of the 
most important. Working with an opponent and using their strength is a tough skill to 
acquire.  In Hapkido we push when pulled and pull when pushed, using our opponents 
energy to our advantage. Going with the flow helps conserve energy and enables the 
Hapkidoist to overcome much larger attackers. 
In Hapkido, we must first have harmony with ourselves, then with the people and 
world around us. Working together can solve many problems before they get out of 
control.  But when faced with attack, the true Hapkido practitioner reacts by instinct, not 
through conscious thought. If one has to think about how to react, it is too late. This is why 
we practice our techniques over and over again. Merely knowing how to use a particular 
technique is not good enough, Hapkido techniques must be practiced until they are 
second nature or an automatic reaction. 
The epitome of non-resistance and harmony is the sacrifice throw, letting the 
opponent provide the energy and direction to throw himself. 
 
Terms 
Commands 
 
Char-ri-ot   Attention 
Kyong-yae   Bow 
Joon-bi   Ready Stance 
Shi-jak   Begin 
Kho-man   Stop 
Pah-rho   Return (to Joon-bi) 
Shi-ut   At ease 
Dee-do-tora   About face 
Kyo-dae   Change sides 
Kima-suh-gi   Horse stance 
Nak-bop   Break fall 
Ahn-jo   Sit down 
Jung-swa   Kneel down 
Mook-nyum   Meditation 
Il-uh-sah   Stand up 
Mom-tong-pa-shi-gi   Push ups 
Ki-nok-ki   Breathing exercises 
Ahn-yong   Hello, goodbye 
Kahn-sah-hap-nee-day   Thank you 
Numbers 
 
Ha-na  One 
Dool  Two 
Set  Three 
Net  Four 
Da-sot  Five 
Yu-sot  Six 
Il-gob  Seven 
Yol-dle  Eight 
A-hop  Nine 
Yol  Ten 
Yol-hanna  Eleven 
Su-mul  Twenty 
So-run  Thirty 
Ma-han  Forty 
 
General Terms 
 
Kwahn  School 
Do-jang  Training hall 
Do-bok  Uniform 
Dee  Belt 
Bong-su  Six-foot staff 
Jap-gi  One who throws 
Bat-gi  One who is thrown 
Mu-do  Martial Arts 
Ho-shin-sool  Self-defense 
Dan  Black belt 
Gup  Colored belt 
Dahn-boh  Red/black belt 
U-dahn-jah  Black belt holder 
Jo-kyo-nim  First degree black belt 
Kyo-sah-nim  Second degree black belt 
Pu-sah-bum-nim  Third degree black belt 
Sah-bun-nim  Fourth degree and above 
Hapkido  Way of Coordinated Power 
 
Taekwondo 
  Way of Hand and Foot Fighting 
 
Dahn-jak   
  Inseparable friend (fellow student) 
 
 Ki  Power (inner strength) 
Ju-do  Gentle Way 
Kum-do  Way of the Sword 
Ap  Front 
Yop  Side 
Ollyu  Up 
Nae-ryu  Down 
Wee  High 
Ahre  Low 
O-run  Right 
Chwa  Left 
Mahk-ki  Blocks 
Cha-gi  Kicks 
Tae-rigi  Strikes 
Suh-gi  Stances 
Chun-gool-suh-gi  Front stance 
Ki-ma-suh-gi  Horse stance 
Yi-kwon-tae-rigi  Back fist 
Chang-kwon-tae-rigi  Palm heel 
Pal-kup-tae-rigi  Elbow 
Ap-chi-gi  Front snap kick 
Yop-chi-gi  Side kick 
Dhohl-yo-shu-gi  Round house kick 
Ohl-ligi  Stretch kick 
 
 
Etiquette 
 
Bowing 
The purpose of Hapkido is to train your spirit as well as your body. 
As a reflection of these higher goals, all Hapkido practitioners pay 
due respect to each other (before, during and after class), to 
instructors and to the flags of the United States and Korea. There 
are two bows in Hapkido  standing and kneeling. 
 
 
Standing Bow 
1.  Stand with your feet together, arms relaxed, hands at your 
sides, with your eyes looking forward. 
2.  Tuck your chin in, and with a natural motion, bend your 
upper body forward about 30 degrees. Touch your 
fingertips to your kneecaps. Return to your original 
position. 
 
 
Moving from a Standing Posture to a Seated Posture 
1.  Start in an upright position. 
2.  Pull back your left leg and kneel down on your knee (your 
left foot will rest on the ball of the foot). 
3.  Kneel down on your right knee and place both feet 
together. 
4.  Straighten out your toes and squat down with your right toe 
crossing your left big toe. The space between your knees 
should be about 12-14 inches. Place both hands on your 
thighs, the fingers together and turned slightly inward. 
When standing up, follow the same steps in reverse 
order. 
 
 
Kneeling Bow 
1.  Begin from the kneeling position, with your hands on your 
lap. 
2.  Place both hands in front of your knees on the floor and 
bend and lower your elbows. The index fingers of each 
hand should touch slightly. The upper body should bend 
down so that the brow of your head is about 12 inches 
above both hands. Then return to the kneeling position. 
 
Promptness: 
Your instructors and fellow students make an effort to be in class on time; therefore, no reason 
will be acceptable to have them wait on you.  Promptness is an important quality that you 
should instill in yourself. If class is scheduled for 6:00, you should be in the do-jang ready to 
workout between 5:30  5:45.  Students are expected to warm up beforehand. 
 
Cleanliness: 
Hapkido is a contact art that involves touching your fellow classmates.  You should come to 
practice with a fresh mind and a clean body.  In the interest of physical hygiene and mutual 
respect for your fellow students, you should wear a clean and odor-free do-bok.  Your 
fingernails and toenails should be clean and neatly trimmed to prevent injury to you and your 
partners. 
 
Conduct: 
The do-jang is only for serious martial artists  not for a social gathering.  While our do-jang is 
coeducational, it is no place for any type of affectionate display.  Since the do-jang is to be 
considered a place for respect, foul language and disrespectful conduct will not be tolerated.  
Whether in the do-jang for class or personal practice or during promotional examinations, 
never criticize a fellow student for not moving well, blame a partner for not making you look 
good enough, or sacrifice your Hapkido technique.  Such behavior is not consistent with the 
basic Hapkido philosophy. 
 
Silence: 
Try to refrain from idle conversation while practicing Hapkido.  You should come to the do-jang 
to practice martial arts  not your mouth.  When coming early to class, or if you are injured 
and watching the workout, please do not distract fellow students or the instructor.  Silence 
during testing is critical.  You should always be able to hear the leaders voice.  When the 
instructor is talking, he should have your undivided attention.  If you have a question during the 
workout session, do not ask a fellow student; raise your hand to ask the instructor.  Discipline 
of the mind is necessary as you learn to take control of your body 
 
Safety: 
One of the most important reasons for do-jang etiquette is to provide safe workout conditions 
for all students.  Safety precautions are never regretted.  You will soon learn that everything 
happening within the walls of the do-jang is strongly based upon the principles of mutual 
welfare and benefit. 
 
Sitting: 
When coming early before the workout, you should stretch and not practice Hapkido 
techniques if another class is being conducted.  If no class is being held, you should work 
through techniques to warm up.  During testing or after stretching, but prior to class, you 
should sit quietly.  There are two acceptable ways for sitting:  Oriental style and western 
(Indian) style.  The latter is to sit with your legs crossed and hands comfortably in your lap.  
Oriental style is to kneel with the feet and knees together, while sitting on your heels.  During 
class meditation, students must kneel unless prohibited due to an injury.  For this exception, 
western style sitting is acceptable.  Why cant you just lie down or sit any way you are 
comfortable?  Sitting correctly shows respect for your instructor, fellow classmates and 
yourself.  In addition, someone might accidentally trip over your extended legs, fall and hurt 
either themselves or you.  If you are sitting in the proper position, you will be able to move 
more quickly and prevent accidents.  When watching class, always sit on the edge of the mat 
and stay aware of what is going on around you.  Watching others is an important learning tool 
for the martial arts. 
 
Uniform: 
An all-white do-bok is required for a formal workout.  Brown belts and above substitute black 
pants for the white in a traditional uniform.  Being a vigorous physical art, Hapkido will cause 
you to perspire profusely and feel hot.  Always wear your do-bok properly and treat it with 
respect.  It should be clean and wrinkle-free.  Do not roll up the sleeves or wear in a 
disarranged fashion so as to cool off.  Since laundering your do-bok frequently will cause it to 
deteriorate, it is recommended that you have several do-boks to switch between and to rinse 
the sweat off the do-bok each time between workouts.  Everyone is responsible for knowing 
how to properly fold and care for their do-bok. 
 
Jewelry / Gum: 
No jewelry (rings, watches, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, etc.) is allowed during workouts.  
Neither men nor women are exempt.  Women are expected to remove barrettes, which could 
injure an eye.  Your instructor should not have to take the time to tell students repeatedly to 
remove those items capable of injuring your partners or yourself.  It is not acceptable to chew 
gum during a workout or testing. 
 
Leaving the Mat During Practice: 
Once you bow onto the mat for a workout session, you should not leave the workout or the 
room without the permission of the instructor.  If you know that you will need to leave class 
early, you should inform your instructor before the class commences; and when it comes time 
to leave, raise your hand and ask permission once again.  Make sure to use proper etiquette 
when bowing out of class, including shaking hands with your partners and bowing off the mat. 
Rules For Being Human 
 
1.  You will receive a body.  You may like it or hate it, but it will be yours for the entire time 
you are here. 
 
2.  You will learn lessons.  You are enrolled in a full-time informal school called life.  Each 
day in this school you will have the opportunity to learn lessons.  You may like the lessons 
or think of them as irrelevant or stupid. 
 
3.  There are no mistakes, only lessons.  Growth is a process of trial and error, 
experimentation.  The failed experiments are as much a part of the process as the 
experiment that ultimately works. 
 
4.  A lesson is repeated until learned.  A lesson will be presented to you in various forms until 
you have learned it.  When you have learned it, you can then go on to the next lesson. 
 
5.  Learning lessons does not end.  There is no part of life that does not contain its lessons.  
If you are alive, there are lessons to be learned. 
 
6.  There is no better than here.  When your there has become a here, you will simply 
obtain another there that will, again, look better than here. 
 
7.  Others are merely mirrors of you.  You cannot love or hate something about an other 
person unless it reflects to you something you love or hate about yourself. 
 
8.  What you make of your life is up to you.  You have all the tools and sources you need.  
What you do with them is up to you.  The choice is yours. 
 
9.  Your answers lie inside you.  The answer to lifes questions lie inside you.  All you need to 
do is look, listen and trust. 
 
10.  You will forget these rules. 
 
 
-Author Unknown 
The Man in the Glass 
 
When you get what you want in your struggle for self 
And the world makes you king for a day, 
Just go to a mirror and look at yourself 
And see what that man has to say. 
 
For it isnt your father, mother or wife 
Whose judgment upon which you must pass, 
The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life 
Is the one staring back from the glass. 
 
Some people might think youre a straight-shooting chum 
And call you a wonderful guy. 
But the man in the glass says youre only a bum 
If you cant look him straight in the eye. 
 
Hes the fellow to please, never mind all the rest 
For hes with you clear to the end. 
And youve passed your most dangerous, difficult test 
If the guy in the glass is your friend. 
 
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years 
And get pats on the back as you pass. 
But your final reward will be heartache and tears 
If youve cheated the man in the glass. 
 
 
-Author Unknown 
The Way of the Hapkido Warrior 
The Korean martial code of chivalry was synthesized with the Buddhist faith by the 
warrior monk Won Kwang Bopsa.  Two young Hwa Rang warriors, Kwi San and Chi Wihang, 
sought out the warrior monk and asked him for commandments that men, who could not 
embrace the secluded life of a monk, could uphold.  Won Kwang Bopsa set down the five rules 
and nine virtues, called Hwa Rang Do O Kae and Hwa Rang Do Kyo Hoon. Evolving from the 
roots of Hwa Rang Do, Hapkido embraces the same codes of honor. 
 
HWA RANG DO O KAE 
(Five Rules) 
 
Il Sa Kun E Chung - Loyalty to ones country. 
E Sa Chin E Hyo - Loyalty to ones parents. 
San Kyo U E Shin - Trust and Brotherhood among friends. 
Sa Im Jun Moo Teah - Courage never to retreat in the face of the enemy. 
O Sal Sang U Tack - Justice never to take a life without cause. 
 
HWA RANG DO KYO HOON 
(Nine Virtues) 
 
In - Humanity 
Oui - Justice 
Yeh - Courtesy 
Ji - Wisdom 
Sin - Trust 
Sun - Goodness 
Duk - Virtue 
Chung - Loyalty 
Yong - Courage 
Basic Principals of Training 
"Stop trIvIaI thoughts and concentrate on your movement, 
as II IacIng a dIIIIcuIt enemy. There must be 
concentratIon oI SpIrIt and WIII." 
In the Korean Martial Art of Hwa Rang Do, there have been set down several training 
points.  These points are the basis of the essentials in learning technique as well as the 
ingredients of character that is the foundation of Hwa Rang Do Kyo Hoon (Code of Ethics). 
 
CONCENTRATION:  
" y makIng the mInd voId oI thoughts, one can gaIn a naturaI medItatIve state." 
 
Concentration has two distinct meanings, paying attention and ki.  Paying attention, or 
overall awareness is essential in and out of the do-jang.  In the do-jang you must be constantly 
aware of the limits within which you practice.  Injuries in the do-jang most often occur when 
students fail to pay attention to their instruction or neglect the principle of limits.  Everything 
has a limit.  For example, joints placed at the proper angle can be broken with little effort. 
Most techniques in hapkido involve coordination of your hands and feet, as well as 
understanding the effect of your work on your partner.  Each technique will be different every 
time you do it, and will especially vary as you perform the same technique on different people.  
Therefore, you must concentrate solely on your technique for fear you will severely injure 
yourself or your partner. 
Concentrations second meaning is related to ki power.  Ki is focused through 
concentration and meditation.  Concentration is also related to a calm mind.  The ancient 
masters taught, with a calm mind, one is free from hesitation. 
 
PATIENCE AND ENDURANCE: 
"I ones mInd Is made up to Iearn then there wIII be success." 
 
Nothing can be learned without patience, while endurance is part of the dues one must 
pay to gain the knowledge.  Nothing of value is worth learning if there is not sacrifice.  
Summers are hot, winters are cold; that is the natural condition of mankind. 
Knowledge that is 1800 years old will come only to those who have the patience to 
sacrifice, to endure the pain and recognize the humility of their ignorance.  It is ancient 
knowledge that has passed from teacher to student for generations.  Only a few will prove 
worthy. 
 
VANITY: 
"Iarge egos are carrIed by smaII mInds." 
 
It is easy to be vain towards those who know less.  But the Hapkido student must realize 
how little he really knows.  There are thousands of techniques and variations in Hapkido.  If a 
student learned a new technique every day, it would still take ten years to master them all.  
This course of study is quite unlikely. When your tea cup becomes full, empty it so you may fill 
it again. 
SINCERITY IN PRACTICE: 
"I one does not practIce reguIarIy, then do not Iace the enemy." 
 
Perfection of techniques requires deeply ingrained habits, and a mental attitude of 
thoroughness.  Exercises, no matter how many times they are repeated, are a waste of time if 
they are done incorrectly.  The time you spend in the do-jang is precious in comparison to the 
time spent outside.  The perfection of technique requires that they become second nature and 
reflexive.  If you have to think of your response, it is already too late.  Practice does not make 
perfect, only permanent.  Only perfect practice will make perfection permanent.  Train to be the 
best. 
 
SPEED:  
"judge the chance and take the opportunIty. Take the IIrst opportunIty and be 
quIcker than the opponent." 
 
Every technique requires speed.  There are counters to all techniques.  Once you have 
become proficient, techniques must be done with the greatest speed and efficiency.  However, 
speed does not make up for sloppy technique. 
 
CONSERVATION OF ENERGY: 
"The Inner Iorce Is conceaIed untII reIeased." 
 
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the martial arts to master is to learn how to conserve 
energy and to relax while under stress.  Ki cannot be released if the body is stricken with inner 
tension and fear.  Tension is also the greatest consumer of energy, even when the body is not 
in motion, one can exhaust himself simply by being tense.  When you are calm, you are free 
from hesitation and when you exhale your ki sinks to the dan jun (center).  These are the 
essential elements of conservation of energy. 
However, over-exertion while training only causes fatigue which makes for poor 
instruction.  When the body is fatigued, errors are committed and constant repetition only 
makes bad habits.  These are simple instructions, difficult to follow. 
 
RESPECT AND OBEDIENCE: 
"AII thIngs In nature operate accordIng to ruIes. MankInd Is one wIth nature." 
 
In every martial art there are aspects which make it dangerous.  To assume the 
responsibility of placing a dangerous weapon in the hands of a stranger  literally to make a 
dangerous weapon out of the body  is a sobering experience.  One of the most essential 
tests of character is whether the student is humble enough to subordinate his own personal 
ego to the rules of the do-jang and respect the gravity of his new powers.  The martial arts are 
not a store-bought item that you are entitled to because you pay for the lessons.  The burden 
is too great, the reflection larger than the individual.  All warriors living the martial way strive to 
live according to the Kyo Hoon code of ethics of respect and obedience. 
Deciding to Test 
 
Deciding to test for the next belt rank should not be determined by the time one has spent in a 
particular rank, rather by ones comfort level and skills at existing rank.  Someone looking to 
test for the next rank should be able to fall for that subsequent rank, as well as possess the 
ability to teach and explain HapKiDo principles and techniques at your existing rank.  All ranks 
are encouraged to discuss ones preparedness for testing with upper rank to determine what 
may need work before the testing.  Lower ranks who decide to test for his or her next rank 
should inform the instructor of the anticipated testing date 4-6 weeks prior to the testing date.  
Upper rank should inform the instructor 3-4 months prior to his or her testing date.  There may 
be opportunities for a pseudo testing during class prior to testing to help prepare for the actual 
testing date. 
 
Time in Rank Requirements 
 
The chart below outlines the minimum and average time spent at a given level.  Everyone is 
different and the chart is merely a guide.  Many individuals spend much longer period at a rank 
than others spend, which is vastly dependant on the comfort level with the techniques at a 
particular rank.   
 
 
Rank  Minimum Time at 
Rank 
Average time at rank  Minimum 
White  2 Months  4-6 Months  3-4 Months 
Orange  3 Months  4-6 Months  3-4 Months 
Green  4 Months  4-6 Months  4-6 Months 
Blue  5 Months  6-8 Months  4-6 Months 
Brown  6 Months  6-12 Months  6-8 Months 
Red  9 Months  6-12 Months  8-10 Months 
Rec. Black  9-12 Months  6-12 Months  
(Must Test within 1 
year) 
12 months 
1
st
 Dan  1 Year    2 Years 
2
nd
 Dan  2+ Years    3 Years 
3
rd
 Dan  3+ Years    4 Years 
4
th
 Dan  4+ Years    5 Years 
5
th
 Dan  5+ Years    6 Years 
 
Falling Requirements 
 
Anyone who decides to test for the next rank is expected to fall for a testing 6 months prior to 
his or her tentative testing date except for white belts.  All black pant ranks are expected to fall 
for an advanced testing within 6 months prior to his or her testing.  It is expected for all ranks to 
procure fallers for his or her testing. 
Advanced Rank Testing Requirements 
 
Master Pak and the Hapkido Black Belts have defined the following minimum requirements 
necessary for the promotion of higher-ranking Hapkido candidates.  Each student is 
responsible for determining any additional requirements from his or her instructor, and for 
requesting permission to test at least one month prior to a test date.  Students who fail to meet 
the minimum requirements will not be permitted to test. 
 
I.  Minimum Time Requirements 
 
The time requirements given below refer to time spent working out, NOT to the time since the 
individual's last testing. In addition, a person may gain knowledge by TAing classes, but this is 
not a substitute for working out.  It is understood that those black belts that are instructors of 
their own schools may not have the opportunity work with advanced members. 
 
The minimum time periods are as follows: 
 
Testing For  Minimum Time at Previous Rank  Consider readiness to 
test 
Red Belt  6 Months   
Recommended Black  9 Months   
1
st 
Dan  6 Months   
All ranks listed below must see Master Pak 
2
nd
 Dan  2-1/2 Years  2 Years 
3
rd
 Dan  3-1/2 Years  2-1/2 Years 
4
th
 Dan  4-1/2 Years  3-1/2 Years 
5
th
 Dan  5-1/2 Years  4-1/2 Years 
 
The second column of times for second dan and below are the time at which it is time to start 
considering whether you are ready to test.  If you feel you are ready or soon will be you MUST 
talk to Master Pak (All students must talk to Master Pak.  If you workout at a different school 
Master Pak will also talk to your instructor).  At that time, you will discuss your readiness to 
test. 
 
The rank of Recommended Black Belt is a temporary status, and allows you to demonstrate 
your desire and dedication to become a 1st Dan within 12 months, you will forfeit your rank of 
Recommended Black Belt and become a 1st Gup Red Belt.  Exceptions to this rule must be 
address to Master Pak or your instructor for approval. 
 
There is no provision that extended time periods spent at one rank will reduce the minimum 
time periods required for future belt ranks. 
II.  Preparation for Testing 
 
When the individual has fulfilled the time requirements as well as the requirements set forth in 
their club, they need to inform Master Pak and the Junior Masters of their intent to test.  Those 
testing for second and above will submit a martial arts resume at least two months prior 
to the testing date.  At this time, they also need to ask their instructor (preferred) or a Black 
Belt currently working out with them for a letter of recommendation.  This letter is due to 
Master Pak and-the Junior Masters 4 weeks before testing.  The statement of philosophy 
must be mailed to Master Pak, the Junior Masters, and the registration chair one month 
prior to testing.  Those testing for other advanced ranks will need to let their instructor know 
of their intent to test one month prior to testing.  The statement of philosophy is due to Master 
Pak one week prior to testing. 
 
The intent of the resume is to give the candidate an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness 
to test.  It should include dates of upper rank testings, teaching experience, other martial arts 
experience, goals set forth at last testing and how they have been achieved. 
 
The following are addresses of Master Pak, our current Junior Masters, and the registration 
chair as of xx/xx/xx 
 
Master Y.C. Pak  Mike Drahos  Kathy Gundlach 
214A Beyer Hall  4200 Sherman St.  3947 550
th
 Ave. 
Ames, IA 50011  Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  Ames, IA 50010-9607 
 
Ken Pilch  Jill Hegland  Craig Whitmore (Registration Chair) 
706 38
th
 St.  Family Martial Arts  1003 N. Hyland Ave. 
Des Moines, IA 50312  Ames, IA 50010  Ames, IA 50014 
 
Effective xx/xx/xx 
Black Belt Statement of Philosophy Format 
 
 
The Black Belt paper, or statement of philosophy, should be something a black belt 
candidate contemplates long before the time to test draws near.  This is the vehicle in which 
you will present your thoughts, feelings and ideas concerning martial arts.   Write from within.  
This is you opportunity to show yourself beyond your technique.  Personally, each paper I 
present at my testings has been more difficult to write than the last.  I could babble on and on, 
because there is so much to say and so little time / room to say it.  So start early.  Write down 
your thoughts and ideas on a regular basis so that others might learn and grow, you also learn 
and grow by writing. 
 
The format of the paper should be as follows: 
 
 
First Page 
 
Title of the paper 
Author 
Rank testing for 
Date of testing 
 
Body text of Paper. 
 
 
 
Last Page 
 
The writing should end as such. 
 
 
Respectfully Submitted,  
 
Signed Name of Author 
 
Name of Author 
Expectations for HapKiDo Testing 
 
HapKiDo is somewhat vague in defining its requirements.  Part of the reason for this is that the 
requirements are different for each person.  The following guidelines were written so that the 
members of this club would know what is expected of them.  They are still somewhat vague to 
leave room for individuality.  If you are unsure of what is meant ask one of the black belts to 
explain it. 
 
The purpose of this sheet is to give those people getting ready to test some idea of what is 
expected of them at testing time.  The items listed below are not so much hard and fast rules 
as minimum guidelines to help you decide if you are really ready to test.  If you are unable to 
perform any of the items listed under your belt level, you should probably give second thought 
to testing.  It is important to realize that you should be able to do all those things listed under 
the belt level well before you test, not learn them afterwards.  Remember, these guidelines are 
as much about safety, both yours and your partners', as about promotion. 
 
White Belt 
 
 Ability to do 10 techniques from a single-hand or cross-hand attack on one side 
consistently without hurting your partner. 
 Rolling falls on one side. 
 Four direction falling should be consistent, with proper head, arm, and leg position. 
 It is expected that you do both, techniques and falling well enough so as to not harm 
yourself or your partner. 
 Basic terminology and knowledge about HapKiDo 
 
Note:  On the weekends and before class, work on doing your techniques on both sides. 
 
Orange Belt 
 
 Should no longer hesitate when told to do a white belt technique, should know the "steps" 
without thinking, and be able to do them properly.  Know at least five new techniques 
well and be able to perform them smoothly and safely. 
 Rolling falls on both sides. (Not somersaults). 
 Rolling falls over a person on their hands and knees. 
 Techniques both right and left handed. Also double-handed. 
 Four basic throws. 
 Low wheel kick. 
 
Note:  Air-falls are not required, but you should be working on them on the weekends. This 
should be done with upper rank (preferably starting on the blue mat) and only once you can do 
rolling falls well (you MUST crawl before you can walk).  Start working on your throws on both 
sides. 
Green Belt 
 
 15 basic techniques should look like one move, with no intermediate steps or hesitations. 
 Basic techniques from side and pushing attacks. 
 Rolling falls over a person at the waist. 
 Air fall when thrown to the right (landing on left side). 
 Four basic throws, both left and right, using technique, not muscle (no picking up and 
dropping of partners).  Make sure you are bending your knees. 
 Sacrifice (grab their lapels and sit down, no choke). 
 A basic understanding of breaking (disturbing) balance, and how it applies to the 
techniques as well as an understanding of the principles behind each technique. 
 CONTROL  Start to use technique and principles not muscle. 
 Start leading warm-ups (beginner class and weekend workouts are a good place to start). 
 High - Low wheel combination 
 Attend at least one self-defense seminar. 
 Continue increasing your knowledge of HapKiDo and its principles.  Reading martial arts 
books is a good way to do this. 
 
Note:  Work on air falls over people. 
 
Blue Belt 
 
 Know and understand the white belt techniques well enough to teach them (not just how, 
but why). 
 Rolling falls and air falls over person at the waist. 
 Lapel attacks and double grip on one wrist  
 Be comfortable leading warm-ups. 
 CONTROL - Must demonstrate control. Use the principles not muscle and speed. Show 
this control with people larger and smaller than yourself.  Don't slam people into the 
mat. 
 FALLING  The ability to fall out of any properly thrown technique without having to be 
told in advance what the technique is, i.e. the ability to fall for black belts without help 
or instruction. 
 Attend a conducting seminar. Watch testings; pay attention to the conductor.  You will 
have to do this soon  
 Air crossing, jumping front snap. 
 Your ability to advance as a lower rank will be predominately limited by your ability to fall, 
then by your ability to throw. Once you become an advanced rank, your ability to fall 
should not be a factor and you should be limited solely by your ability to throw 
properly. 
 
Note:  Work on one-step sparring. 
Brown Belt 
 
 Improve on all techniques learned at lower ranks. Show good improvement before next 
testing. 
 A good understanding of the three principles of HapKiDo, how they work, and how they 
apply to each technique. 
 TA'd beginners practices, or weekend workouts. 
 One step sparring. (Work on punching and blocking on weekends). 
 Wrist grabs from behind, bear hugs (both over and under arms), ground attacks, and wall 
attacks. 
 At least three months continuous preparation before testing. 
 Read 2 martial arts books (Only one of which can be about HapKiDo). 
 It is recommended that you fall for a testing. 
 Double front snap kick. 
 
 
Red Belt 
 
 A thorough understanding of the basic principles and how they apply to each technique 
you know. 
 The ability to teach any technique you know. 
 Understand and use weight dropping. 
 New techniques should come easier because you should now understand the underlying 
principles and know why the move works. 
 Kicking defenses and weapons. 
 Rolling and air falls over multiple people (2 or more). 
 At least six months continuous preparation before you test. 
 Statement of Philosophy should be turned into Master Pak and a copy given to each 
black belt at least one week in advance. 
 You have to get in on the weekends to "fill in the gaps" from class. You will not learn 
enough techniques in class to get you through one-step sparring, kick defenses, two-
on-one attacks, and weapons techniques. 
 
 
Black Belt 
 
  Lead by example at all times. 
  Be encouraging when teaching. 
  Show respect to everyone all the time. 
  Model the principles of HapKiDo outside the dojang as well as during class. 
  Evaluate students objectively and fairly, taking into consideration their physical 
limitations. 
  Do not discuss testing outcomes with others. 
  Weapons, two attackers, and free style. 
 
The notes given are what you should be working on during extra workouts. 
General (but very important) Comments 
 
Falling is VERY important everyone should always be working to improve theirs  it is your 
personal self-defense from injury in (and out of) class. 
 
In all of the above, each time you test you add more techniques.  The ones that you knew at 
the previous belt should be smooth and have "snap" to them. The new ones should be 
consistent.  Anything expected at the previous testing is expected to have improved. 
 
Not everyone who starts HapKiDo has the same strong points or weak points.  You are 
expected to work on your weaknesses not to just depend on your strengths.  If you are a big 
strong person then you are expected to work harder not to use muscle, but to use technique.  
Someone who is smaller and not as strong is expected to learn to use this as a strength, 
realizing when it is an asset and how to over come it when it is not. 
 
Attendance is very important, this is one of the only ways you display your dedication.  If you 
are testing (especially for brown and above) remember the upper rank have paid attention to 
your attendance and attitude in the Do-Jang and these weigh heavily in your testing.  Jigoro 
Kano was once asked what the secret to Judo was. He replied, "Don't miss practice." It may be 
a different art but the quote is still very true. 
 
Don't test because everyone else from your class is testing.  Remember everyone learns at 
different rates.  Don't be ashamed to wait.  In the long run it will probably make your HapKiDo 
better. 
 
Once you are a green belt, ask questions don't expect everything to be told to you.  It is your 
responsibility to learn things outside of normal club practices. 
 
A big part of the basis for judging HapKiDo is improvement.  One sign that you may be ready 
to test is that there has been significant improvement in your techniques, falling, knowledge, 
and understanding of HapKiDo since your last testing. 
 
ADVICE FROM THE BLACK BELTS 
 
After you test, look at what was good and what needed work.  Ask someone who out ranks you 
by 2 ranks what they thought was good and bad (white and orange could ask their TA's).  
Decide on a "plan" for improving your performance.  Don't test again until you have fixed the 
"problem areas" and you have improved the areas that went well.  Remember the harder you 
work for a belt the more it means. 
 
"We know from experience that beginning students listen attentively to fundamental 
instructions, hoping to progress quickly to advance forms.  This is a mistake.  The foundation 
must be laid first and the superstructure built by degrees.  There is even danger in undertaking 
advanced training before the preliminaries have been mastered.  For those who take the steps 
in sequence and train properly, the rewards are perfect physical development and proficiency 
in techniques." Jigoro Kano, founder of Judo. 
 
White Belt Testing Requirements 
 
Techniques: 
 
1.  Outside Breaking Balance 
2.  Inside Breaking Balance 
3.  Inside Wrist Twist Wave 
4.  Throat Poke 
5.  Palm Heel to Chin 
6.  Korean Two-Step 
7.  Inside with Shoulder Bar 
8.  Advanced Wave 
9.  Pulling  Hair 
10. Pulling  Collar 
11. Pulling  Knee Bump 
12. Pulling  Airplane 
13. Arm Bar  Beginners 
14. Arm Bar  Elbow on Elbow 
15. Backspin 
 
Attacks:  
 
1.  Single 
2.  Cross 
 
Finishes: 
 
1.  Standing Knee Block 
2.  Basic Wrist Lock (Outside) 
3.  Knee to Elbow with Wrist Lock 
 
Orange Belt Testing Requirements 
 
Techniques: 
 
1.  Outside Breaking Balance 
2.  Inside Breaking Balance 
3.  Inside Wrist Twist Wave 
4.  Throat Poke 
5.  Palm Heel to Chin 
6.  Korean Two-Step 
7.  Inside with Shoulder Bar 
8.  Advanced Wave 
9.  Pulling  Hair 
10. Pulling  Collar 
11. Pulling  Knee Bump 
12. Pulling  Airplane 
13. Arm Bar  Beginners 
14. Arm Bar  Elbow on Elbow 
15. Backspin 
16. Chicken Wing 
17. Hamburger 
18. Step  Back Wave 
19. Wrist Lock 
20. Pinkie Lock 
21. Outside Pull Down with Counter 
22. Elbow Pop  Hand to shoulder Inside 
23. Steering Wheel 
24. Steering Wheel with Pressure point or Strike 
25. Cross Hand Wrist Lock 
26. One Step Outside 
27. One Step Inside 
28. Outside to Arm Bar 
29. Policemans Come Along #1 
30. Policemans Come Along #2 
 
 
Attacks:  
 
1.  Single 
a.  Left 
b.  Right 
2.  Cross 
3.  Double 
 
Throws: 
 
1.  Under Arm 
2.  Around Waist 
3.  Around Neck 
4.  Sweep 
 
Kicks: 
 
1.  Drop Wheel 
2.  Knee Strike 
3.  Front Snap 
a.  Groin 
b.  Knee 
c.  Shin 
Finishes: 
 
1.  Standing Knee Block 
2.  Basic Wrist Lock (Outside) 
3.  Knee to Elbow with Wrist Lock 
4.  Flat Arm / Pressure to Elbow / Finger 
Pullback 
5.  Judo Hold Down 
6.  Arm Curl and Pull 
 
Green Belt Testing Requirements 
 
Techniques: 
 
1.  Outside Breaking Balance 
2.  Inside Breaking Balance 
3.  Inside Wrist Twist Wave 
4.  Throat Poke 
5.  Palm Heel to Chin 
6.  Korean Two-Step 
7.  Inside with Shoulder Bar 
8.  Advanced Wave 
9.  Pulling  Hair 
10. Pulling  Collar 
11. Pulling  Knee Bump 
12. Pulling  Airplane 
13. Arm Bar  Beginners 
14. Arm Bar  Elbow on Elbow 
15. Backspin 
 
16. Chicken Wing 
17. Hamburger 
18. Step  Back Wave 
19. Wrist Lock 
20. Pinkie Lock 
21. Outside Pull Down with Counter 
22. Elbow Pop  Hand to shoulder Inside 
23. Steering Wheel 
24. Steering Wheel with Pressure point or Strike 
25. Cross Hand Wrist Lock 
26. One Step Outside 
27. One Step Inside 
28. Outside to Arm Bar 
29. Policemans Come Along #1 
30. Policemans Come Along #2 
31. Arm Bar X to the Side 
32. Arm Bar X Moving In 
33. Head Twist 
34. Lower Back Crush 
35. Double Leg Takedown 
36. Firemans Carry Outside 
37. Firemans Carry Inside 
38. Lapel Choke 
39. Naked Choke 
40. Double Choke 
41. Policemans to Airplane 
42. Policemans to Sweep 
43. Side Attack Reverse Lock 
44. Standing Double Lapel Choke 
45. Pull with Foot Sweep 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Attacks:  
 
1.  Single 
a.  Left 
b.  Right 
2.  Cross 
3.  Double 
4.  Side 
a.  Wrist 
b.  Elbow 
c.  Shoulder 
5.  Single Lapel 
 
 
Throws: 
 
1.  Under Arm 
2.  Around Waist 
3.  Around Neck 
4.  Sweep 
5.  Sacrifice 
6.  Waist with Arm Toss 
7.  DDT / Sacrifice with Follow Up 
Kicks: 
 
1.  Drop Wheel 
2.  High Wheel 
3.  High / Low Combination Wheel 
4.  Roundhouse 
5.  Knee Strike 
6.  Front Snap 
a.  Groin 
b.  Knee 
c.  Shin 
 
Strikes: 
 
1.  Elbow 
2.  Open Hand 
3.  Palm Heel 
4.  Knife Hand 
5.  Drop Open Palm 
6.  Backfist 
Finishes: 
 
1.  Standing Knee Block 
2.  Basic Wrist Lock (Outside) 
3.  Knee to Elbow with Wrist Lock 
4.  Flat Arm / Pressure to Elbow / Finger 
Pullback 
5.  Judo Hold Down 
6.  Arm Curl and Pull 
7.  Advanced Judo Hold Down 
8.  Police Hold Down 
9.  Bent Arm Turnover 
 
Blue Belt Testing Requirements 
 
Techniques: 
 
1.  Outside Breaking Balance 
2.  Inside Breaking Balance 
3.  Inside Wrist Twist Wave 
4.  Throat Poke 
5.  Palm Heel to Chin 
6.  Korean Two-Step 
7.  Inside with Shoulder Bar 
8.  Advanced Wave 
9.  Pulling  Hair 
10.  Pulling  Collar 
11.  Pulling  Knee Bump 
12.  Pulling  Airplane 
13.  Arm Bar  Beginners 
14.  Arm Bar  Elbow on Elbow 
15.  Backspin 
 
16.  Chicken Wing 
17.  Hamburger 
18.  Step  Back Wave 
19.  Wrist Lock 
20.  Pinkie Lock 
21.  Outside Pull Down with Counter 
22.  Elbow Pop  Hand to shoulder Inside 
23.  Steering Wheel 
24.  Steering Wheel with Pressure point or 
Strike 
25.  Cross Hand Wrist Lock 
26.  One Step Outside 
27.  One Step Inside 
28.  Outside to Arm Bar 
29.  Policemans Come Along #1 
30.  Policemans Come Along #2 
31.  Arm Bar X to the Side 
32.  Arm Bar X Moving In 
33.  Head Twist 
34.  Lower Back Crush 
35.  Double Leg Takedown 
36.  Firemans Carry Outside 
37.  Firemans Carry Inside 
38.  Lapel Choke 
39.  Naked Choke 
40.  Double Choke 
41.  Policemans to Airplane 
42.  Policemans to Sweep 
43.  Side Attack Reverse Lock 
44.  Standing Double Lapel Choke 
45.  Pull with Foot Sweep 
 
 
46.  Clothes Line 
47.  Tai-Otoshi 
48.  Inside Low Wheel Kick / Lock 
49.  Step Behind  Soft 
50.  Step Behind  Hard 
51.  Cross Double Lapel Drop 
52.  Double Hand Circle Snap with Knee Strike 
53.  Double Hand Circle Snap with Airplane 
54.  Double Hand Circle Snap with Toss 
55.  Choke Defenses 
56.  Drop with Head Spin 
57.  Elbow Spin Lock 
58.  Elbow Over Lock 
59.  Arm Circle to Arm Bar 
60.  Elbow Pull to Pulling Techniques 
 
 
 
Attacks:  
 
1.  Single 
d.  Left 
e.  Right 
2.  Cross 
3.  Double 
4.  Two on One 
5.  Side 
a.  Wrist 
b.  Elbow 
c.  Shoulder 
6.  Single Lapel 
7.  Double Lapel 
a.  Pushing 
b.  Single Hand 
8.  Behind the Back 
a.  Over Arms 
b.  Under Arms 
c.  Choking 
 
 
Throws: 
 
1.  Under Arm 
2.  Around Waist 
3.  Around Neck 
4.  Sweep 
5.  Sacrifice 
6.  Waist with Arm Toss 
7.  DDT / Sacrifice with Follow Up 
8.  Waist with Leg Sweep 
9.  Waist with Inside Sweep 
10. Leg Trip / Block 
11. Double Under Arm 
12. Large Circle Arm 
Kicks: 
 
1.  Drop Wheel 
2.  High Wheel 
3.  High / Low Combination Wheel 
4.  Roundhouse 
5.  Knee Strike 
6.  Front Snap 
a.  Groin 
b.  Knee 
c.  Shin 
7.  Double Front Snap 
8.  Jumping Front Snap 
 
Strikes: 
 
1.  Elbow 
2.  Open Hand 
3.  Palm Heel 
4.  Knife Hand 
5.  Drop Open Palm 
6.  Backfist 
 
 
Finishes: 
 
1.  Standing Knee Block 
2.  Basic Wrist Lock (Outside) 
3.  Knee to Elbow with Wrist Lock 
4.  Flat Arm / Pressure to Elbow / Finger 
Pullback 
5.  Judo Hold Down 
6.  Arm Curl and Pull 
7.  Advanced Judo Hold Down 
8.  Police Hold Down 
9.  Bent Arm Turnover 
Assistant Instructor Requirements 
 
1.  Candidate must have attained the rank of Blue Belt. 
2.  Candidate must have the desire, discipline and patience to teach others. 
3.  Candidate must have read at least two of the books on the Hapkido reading list. 
4.  Candidate must know Korean terminology for all of the basics, and be able to 
explain the principles of Hapkido, as well as the more general practice of Martial 
Arts. 
5.  Candidate will also be observed in the following situations: 
a.  Leading at least three classes through warm-ups and basics. 
b.  Teaching five white belt classes. 
c.  Explaining and demonstrating the 30 white and orange belt techniques along 
with the 4 basic throws, falling, breaking balance and Ki-Kno-Ki to the panel of 
Black Belts. 
 
You may begin to fulfill the first four requirements as you progress through the ranks. 
 
*Upon completion of the above criteria, candidates may be asked to instruct the beginners 
class or lead all or a portion of advanced class. 
Hapkido Reading List 
 
The Art of War, Sun Tzu, Translated by Thomas Cleary, Shambhala Boston and London, 
1988. 
 
A Book of Five Rings, Miyamoto Musashi, Translated by Victor Harris, The Overlook 
Press,1974. 
 
Living the Martial Way, Forrest E. Morgan, Maj. USAF, Barricade Books, 1992. 
 
Tao of Jeet Kune Do, Bruce Lee, Ohara Publications, Inc, 1975. 
 
Zen in the Martial Arts, Joe Hyams, J. P. Tarcher, Inc., 1979. 
 
The gift of fear, Gavin Debecker, Little, Brown, 1997 
 
Beauty Bines Beast, Ellen Swortland, B3 Books, 1998 
 
On Killing, Lt. Col. David Grossman, Little, Brown 1995 
 
Strong on Defense 
Sources 
 
Information included throughout this manual is a combination of original material and 
thoughts and information gleaned from the following sources: 
 
The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarng Do, Vol 2, Joo Bang Lee, Ohara Publications, Inc., 1979. 
 
The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarng Do, Vol 3, Joo Bang Lee, Ohara Publications, Inc., 1980. 
 
The Art of War, Sun Tzu, Translated by Thomas Cleary, Shambhala Boston and London, 
1988. 
 
A Book of Five Rings, Miyamoto Musashi, Translated by Victor Harris, The Overlook Press, 
1974. 
 
The Book of the Samurai Hagakure, Yamamoto Tsunetomo, Kodansha International, 1979. 
 
Hapkido, Korean Art of Self-Defense. Bong Soo Han, Ohara Publications, Inc., 1974. 
 
Knife Fighting, Knife Throwing for Combat, Michael D. Echanis, Ohara Publications, Inc., 
1978.   
 
Living the Martial Way, Forrest E. Morgan, Maj. USAF, Barricade Books, 1992. 
 
Tao of Jeet Kune Do, Bruce Lee, Ohara Publications, Inc, 1975. 
 
Vital Judo, Isao Okano, Japan Publications, Inc., 1976. 
 
Zen in the Martial Arts, Joe Hyams, J. P. Tarcher, Inc., 1979. 
 
Hapkido, Master Yong Chin Pak, Iowa State University. 
 
Tae Kwon Do, Master Yong Chin Pak, Iowa State University. 
 
Hapkido Manual, Family Martial Arts Center, Jill Shilkaitis, Ames, Iowa. 
 
Hapkido, Training Reference, Michael L. Burnett, K-Mac Publications. 
 
Goshin Jitsu, Training Manual, Dr. Colin G. Kaide, University Press, Urbana, Illinois. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
This is the official emblem used by the Kido arts of Korea.  It is full of meaning and 
was well thought out by its creators.   
First, the outer circle represents the universe, earth and man  much as a circle 
represents these things in Asian culture.  It also represents Hapkidos circle theory and all 
its meaning, including the idea of ones personal space.  Youll notice that the two arrow 
shaped lines penetrate this circle, representing Hapkidos ability to get inside of an 
opponents circle of defenses, using the water theory.  The two lines are also designed to 
represent the theory of non-resistance by the fact that they seem to be passing by each 
other and not clashing in the middle of the circle, showing that Hapkido aims to deflect and 
lead in a circular motion and not meet direct force with direct force. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Korean National Flag 
 
The Korean flag symbolizes much of the thought, philosophy, and mysticism of the 
Orient. The symbol, and sometimes the flag itself, is called Tae Geuk.  Depicted on the 
flag is a circle, divided equally, and blocked in perfect balance.  The upper section (red) 
represents the Yang, and the lower (blue) represent the Um, an ancient symbol of the 
universe.  The two opposites express the dualism of the cosmos: fire and water, day and 
night, dark and light, construction and destruction, masculine and feminine, active and 
passive, hot and cold, plus and minus, etc. 
 
The central thought in Tae Geuk indicates that while there is a constant movement 
within the sphere of infinity, there are also balance and harmony.  As a simple example, 
kindness and cruelty may be taken into consideration.  If parents are kind to a child, he is 
good, but they may spoil and weaken him, and thus lead him to become a vicious man and 
a source of disgrace to his ancestors. 
 
Three bars at each corner also carry the ideas of opposition and balance.  The three 
unbroken lines stand for heaven, the opposite three broken lines represent earth. At the 
lower left hand of the flag are two lines with a broken line between them.  This symbolizes 
fire.  The opposite is the symbol of water. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The American Flag 
 
The American flag hangs next to the Korean flag in all do-jangs.  It should be hung 
above or at the same level as the Korean flag, but never below.  Both flags are honored in 
the do-jang out of respect to the ancestry of martial arts and American heritage. 
Some of the history of the American flag is well known.  The current flag, with 13 
stripes and 50 stars, was adapted by the United States in 1960.  The first flag had thirteen 
stars.  The US flag changed as the United States ratified additional states.  In 1818, 
President James Monroe signed the flag act into existence stating that the United States 
flag would be thirteen red and white stripes and white stars on a field of blue. (The original 
flag had been modified and adapted numerous times without a definite purpose up until this 
point.)  The act also specified that a star was to be added as states were ratified.  At the 
time of the signing, there were 20 states in the USA.  The 13 stripes symbolize the original 
13 colonies. 
The red, white and blue colors of the flag are also symbolic but hold no official 
meaning.  The red is believed to signify our inheritance from Great Britain, as well as 
courage, zeal and the life blood of brave men and women.  Blue is said to symbolize justice, 
faith in God, loyalty, friendship and truth.  The white holds meanings associated with purity 
in word and deed, cleanliness of life and rectitude of conduct. 
Mr. Ken Pilch 
 
Mr. Pilch has been practicing Hapkido since 1986 when he moved to Ames to attend 
Iowa State and study martial arts with Master Pak.  He earned his black belt in March of 
1990 and his fourth degree black belt in October 14
th
 2000.  Mr. Pilch has also practiced 
Judo, Kumdo, and Taekwondo, as well as exposing himself to many different styles of 
martial arts.  In 1991, he began Hapkido in Des Moines along with Bob Whitmer. 
 
While at Iowa State, Mr. Pilch earned an outstanding student award for Hapkido in 
1989.  He was elected Hapkido Club President 1989-90, and club education/self-defense 
chair 1990-91.  At the 1990 Martial Arts Banquet, Mr. Pilch was presented with Hapkido 
Leader of the Year Award.  In 1991, Mr. Pilch graduated from Iowa State with a degree in 
political science. 
 
Outside of the do-jang, Mr. Pilch works as a Polk County Deputy Sheriff.  In this 
position, Mr. Pilch is a state certified defensive tactics instructor, training fellow law 
enforcement officers in street combat skills necessary for survival.  Mr Pilch is also a Field 
Officer, assisting new patrol deputies with street assignments. 
 
Mr. Pilch often works with the public, conducting self-defense seminars through the 
Sheriff's Office.  The seminars include people of all ages, ranging in class size from five to 
over 100.  He is also a member of the Polk County Sheriff Department's Hostage Rescue 
Team, a Firearms Instructor & Sub-Machine gun Instructor, and is trained in CPR, as well 
as general first aid. 
 
"Living the martial way," is Mr. Pilch's personal martial arts philosophy. "I encourage 
everyone to experience as much training as possible, don't limit yourself to just one art.  I've 
benefited from the many friends I have in different arts, not only at Iowa State but across 
the country, and I continue to learn from them." 
Master Yong Chin Pak 
 
The martial arts program at ISU first began in March of 1963.  Ten years later, in 1973, 
Master Pak came to Ames to be the instructor of the ISU Judo Club.  In that same year, the 
ISU Hapkido club was formed and admitted into the Sports Club Council.  At this time, 
Master Pak also began teaching P.E. classes in the martial arts.  Master Pak quickly 
established himself as a major figure in this country's martial arts community.  He has been 
a self-defense instructor for the Iowa Law Enforcement, Ames Police Department, and ISU 
Campus Security. 
 
In the ISU Hapkido club, Master Pak taught both Hapkido and Taekwondo.  Many of 
the members of the early Hapkido Club competed in tournaments.  This was essentially the 
roots of the present Karate Club.  Taekwondo/Karate continued as a sub-group of Hapkido 
until a third club was formed in March of 1979, the ISU Karate Club.   
 
Master Pak has devoted his entire life to the mastery and teaching of the Korean 
martial arts.  After being elected college class president, receiving high grades, graduating 
with a four-year degree from the Korean Judo College, and serving as a Korean Secret 
Service self-defense instructor, Master Pak left Korea to come to the United States. 
 
His collegiate Taekwondo team regularly places 1st, 2nd and 3rd in national 
competition.  Since coming to the United States, he has twice received the NCTA Coach of 
the Year Award and numerous awards for his dedication and service.  In 1983, he received 
the Amoco Outstanding Teachers Award (Iowa State University) and internationally 
coached the United States team in the Pan American Taekwondo Championships.  In 1986, 
Master Pak was elected president of the National Collegiate Taekwondo Association. 
 
In 1993, Master Pak received an ISU Faculty Citatim.  He was named Advisor of the 
year in 1989-99, 1994-95 & 1998-99.  Master Pak was inducted into the Ames Convention 
& Visitors Bureau Hall of Fame in 1997.  The 3 martial arts at ISU remain a strong entity on 
campus and with all 3 clubs available to offer diversity, there is something for everyone. 
 
Master Pak currently instructs the collegiate martial arts program at Iowa State 
University.  To date, more than 24,000 students have passed through his program at ISU 
alone.  A number of his black belts upon graduation have established their own community 
programs in Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, South Dakota, Kansas and Alaska.  Over 25 branch 
schools are now operating under Master Pak's guidance and direction.