INSTITUTE DAEHAN

Haedong Kumdo (해동검도 / 海東劍道) was developed in 1982 by its founders, Masters Kim Jeong-Ho (김정호) and Na Han-Il (나한일). Both had trained in ancient Korean sword forms, Kichunmun (기천문), under the guidance of Master Dae Yang Park (대양박), and Shimgumdo (심검도), under the leadership of Master Kim Chang Sik (김창식).

​

The techniques inherited from Kichunmun (기천문) are present in circular sword movements, as well as in meditation and breathing practices known as Danjun (단전 / 丹田). Shimgumdo (심검도) stands out for including a unique meditation system, personal defense techniques without the use of a sword (Ho Shin Sul, 호신술 / 護身術), and advanced forms using two swords (Ssangkumbup, 쌍검법 / 雙劍法).

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

The name Haedong Kumdo (해동검도) traces back to the ancient kingdom of Balhae (발해 / 渤海), also known as Haedong Seong-Guk Balhae (해동성국발해 / 海東盛國渤海). This kingdom, located in northeastern Korea near the border with northern China and Eastern Siberia, existed from 698 to 935 AD. The name is composed of:
 

• Hae (해 / 海): Ocean
   

• Dong (동 / 東): East
   

• Kum (검 / 劍): Sword
   

• Do (도 / 道): Way or Path
   

Thus, Haedong Kumdo can be interpreted as the "Way of the Sword of the East Sea" or "Way of the Korean Sword."

​

Unlike other Eastern schools that focus on combating a single opponent with a precise strike, the traditional Korean sword is designed to face multiple opponents simultaneously. This focus reflects the nature of ancient battlefields, where the sword was only drawn in war situations.

​

The circular movements, a hallmark of Haedong Kumdo, are designed to attack opponents from any direction on the battlefield. This contrasts with other Eastern sword traditions that often teach predominantly linear movements.

​

Acrobatic movements, now part of modern practice, have their origin in ceremonies and festivities from the past. In these events, warriors performed impressive displays before the king, who sought to demonstrate the power and military sophistication of Korea to foreign generals and soldiers.

​

During training, Haedong Kumdo synthesizes the legacy of ancient Korean warriors, as seen in the execution of traditional forms, including Ssangsu Gumbup (쌍수검법 / 雙手劍法) and Ssang Gumbup (쌍검법 / 雙劍法). These forms combine technical precision and inner strength, symbolizing the warrior’s spirit.

​

In addition to combat, Haedong Kumdo provides practical solutions to modern problems such as stress, obesity, and anxiety. Training includes practices for correct posture, emotional control, mental focus, meditation, and breathing exercises (Ki Hap, 기합 / 氣合), helping practitioners break free from harmful health habits and promoting physical and mental balance.

​

More than just a martial art, Haedong Kumdo seeks to develop values such as respect, self-esteem, and sociability. Through its principles, practitioners can face daily challenges with confidence and resilience, cultivating a healthier and more meaningful life.