The Meaning of Hapkido

Hapkido is the Korean martial arts that uses kicks, strikes, throws, and join locks. It is a very versatile style of combat.

  • Hap – means “coordinated” or “joining”
  • Ki – means internal energy, spirit, strength, or power
  • Do – means “way’ or “art”

It is most often translated as “the way of coordinating energy” or “the way of coordinated power”.

Why Study Hapkido?

Hapkido is known around the world for its self-defense applications. Many law enforcement officers are taught Hapkido as part of their unarmed combat; because modern Hapkido retains the real world applications that many martial arts have lost in favor of becoming a sport for the masses.

Hapkido emphasizes circular motion and control of the opponent. The essence of Hapkido is to gain advantage through technique, avoiding the use of strength against strength. Thus a “weaker” person is able to defend him/herself against a “stronger” attacker.

The Three Principles of Hapkido

  • Nonresistance (Hwa)

    Harmony

  • Circle principle (Won)

    Circle

  • The Water/Flexible principle (Yu)

    Flow

Master Na Young An

Korean National Team

Master Na Young An

Hapkido Demonstration in Singapore