JungShin Gum Sool, a martial art rooted in the artistry of the sword, represents "the techniques or way of the sword." Drawing inspiration from the ancient Ssabori warriors of Korea, Koguryo Gum Sool offers a glimpse into the swordsmanship that once flourished in Korea but dwindled during the 40-year Japanese occupation. Most of the Korean sword arts that remain are reconstructions, amalgamating knowledge from ancient Korean texts into the Japanese Tojutsu, which translates literally as "sword techniques." Training in Koguryo JungShin Gum Sool encompasses a comprehensive regimen. It includes the practice of battlefield techniques in the absence of an opponent, as well as techniques where two practitioners engage in paired kata, ranging from full-contact strikes for advanced students, often involving armor, to no-body-contact strikes for beginners. Historical traditions even incorporated sparring under various conditions, utilizing solid wooden swords (J. bokutō - K. mokgeom), bamboo swords (J. Shinai - K. Juk-To), and protective armor (J. Bogu - K. Hogu).
Our system seamlessly integrates concepts from both Korean and Japanese schools of swordsmanship, synthesizing principles from distinct disciplines. In particular, it draws upon Japanese practices such as Kenjutsu (剣術), which serves as a comprehensive term encompassing various traditional sword arts. Within the realm of Japanese swordsmanship, two specialized disciplines stand out. Battōjutsu (抜刀術) focuses on the precise and swift drawing of the sword, enabling practitioners to respond efficiently to threats. Concurrently, Iaijutsu (居合術) places a heightened emphasis on mental presence and immediate response, seamlessly combining drawing and striking techniques. Additionally, our system incorporates Korean martial arts elements, including Kumsool (剣術), Kumboup (抜刀), and Kuhapsool (居合術). This synthesis of Japanese and Korean traditions creates a comprehensive framework that enables practitioners to develop a well-rounded understanding of swordsmanship. This approach encourages the simultaneous study of these diverse arts, allowing for a holistic mastery of the intricacies involved in wielding a sword.
Embedded within our practice is a deep commitment to the philosophical teachings of the Ssabori. Their art revolves around the profound unification of the body, spirit, and mind. It serves as a conduit for holistic development, nurturing the mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions of practitioners. Engaging in Koguryo Gum Sool is intended to forge not only physical prowess but also psychological fortitude. More than just martial techniques, Koguryo Gum Sool strives to shape and strengthen the character, ethics, and morality of its practitioners. This transformative journey is achieved through the rigorous training of intricate sword skills and their practical application in fencing. At the heart of KUM-SOOL lies a noble aspiration: students train not to conquer others but to master themselves.
Jung Shin Gum Sool is a comprehensive martial art that offers a multifaceted approach to enhancing the practitioner's physical, mental, and social well-being. It is a discipline that embodies a code of honor, equips individuals to confront perilous situations with poise, and instills a profound sense of moral integrity. Within its framework, practitioners embark on a lifelong journey of self-improvement and personal growth.
One of the central facets of Jung Shin Gum Sool is its capacity to cultivate power, strength, agility, and swiftness in its practitioners. Through rigorous training, individuals develop motor skills and martial arts expertise, enabling them to navigate the demands of combat effectively.
However, Jung Shin Gum Sool transcends the realm of physical prowess. It imparts a moral and ethical code that emphasizes virtues such as honor, respect, and courtesy. This code not only governs interactions within the martial arts community but also extends to the broader context of life.
A core tenet of Jung Shin Gum Sool is its commitment to dealing with dangerous situations in a principled and orthodox manner. It equips practitioners with the tools to confront challenges head-on, fostering problem-solving skills and the capacity to remain composed under pressure.
Mental acuity is sharpened through the practice of swordsmanship, improving concentration and instilling a calm and logical thought process. This heightened mental agility serves as a valuable asset not only in martial arts but also in various aspects of daily life.
Jung Shin Gum Sool is not merely a physical pursuit; it is a lifelong endeavor. It bolsters physical fitness, enhancing cardiovascular health, flexibility, strength, agility, balance, and speed. Moreover, it augments mental fitness by nurturing awareness, alertness, and unwavering focus.
The martial art also accentuates social fitness by fostering camaraderie, courtesy, honor, and respect among its practitioners. These qualities permeate one's interactions within and beyond the martial arts community.
Furthermore, Jung Shin Gum Sool delves into the realm of spiritual fitness, fostering peace, calmness, harmony, and tranquility of spirit. It prompts individuals to embark on a profound introspective journey, aiding them in understanding their identity and life's purpose.
In sum, Jung Shin Gum Sool is a holistic discipline that transcends the boundaries of conventional martial arts. It serves as a pathway to self-improvement, encompassing physical, mental, social, and spiritual facets of human existence.
The Jung Shin Gum Sool student adheres to a code of conduct deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of medieval Korea. Drawing inspiration from the valorous knights of the old Korean kingdom of Koguryo, practitioners of this martial art wield their swords not merely as instruments of combat but as embodiments of honor and devotion to their homeland. In the spirit of chivalry, they navigate the battlefield with unwavering adherence to a set of noble principles, reflecting the timeless values of a bygone era.
These sacred tenets, passed down through the annals of history, encapsulate the essence of the Koguryo warrior's ethos. Each principle serves as a guiding light, instilling a profound sense of purpose and moral fortitude in those who follow this path. Among the revered rules that govern their actions are:
1. Cheung: Love for Your Country: The first tenet, "Cheung," encapsulates an unwavering love and devotion to one's homeland. It embodies a profound sense of patriotism that drives the Koguryo warrior to defend their country with unyielding determination. This love for their land serves as the cornerstone of their martial journey.
2. Hew: Filial Piety for One's Parents: "Hew" represents the deep-seated respect and reverence that the practitioner holds for their parents. Rooted in filial piety, this principle acknowledges the role of parents in shaping the character and values of their children. It underscores the importance of honoring and caring for one's family as an integral aspect of the martial path.
3. Yeah: Respect for Elders: "Yeah" embodies a profound respect for elders, acknowledging the wisdom and experience they bring to the community. This principle fosters a culture of deference and learning from one's predecessors, emphasizing the role of mentorship and guidance within the martial arts tradition.
4. Liee: Honor and Virtue: "Liee" encompasses the ideals of honor and virtue, driving the Koguryo warrior to uphold the highest moral standards. It underscores the significance of integrity, righteousness, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life, both on and off the battlefield.
5. Shin: Justice: The final tenet, "Shin," underscores the unwavering commitment to justice. It urges practitioners to be champions of fairness and equity, standing up against injustice and oppression. This principle empowers the Koguryo warrior to use their skills for the greater good, ensuring that justice prevails in all endeavors.
In embracing these time-honored tenets, the Jung Shin Gum Sool student not only becomes a formidable martial artist but also a beacon of virtue and righteousness. They carry forward the legacy of the Koguryo warriors, embodying the ideals of honor, duty, and service to their country and society.
As a student of Jung Shin Gum Sool, you become a part of a storied warrior lineage that boasts a rich history dating back to the 4th century. Rooted in the traditions of the Koguryo kingdom, practitioners of this martial art inherit a profound philosophy that mirrors the ideals cherished by the ancient knights of Korea. At the heart of this ethos lie eight core principles, each of which encapsulates a distinct facet of virtuous living and martial excellence:
1. Loyalty: Loyalty signifies an unwavering commitment to a cause, a government, a person, or a duty. It embodies a steadfast dedication that stands as a pillar of strength, upholding one's obligations with unwavering resolve.
2. Piety: Piety extends beyond mere loyalty; it encompasses a profound devotion to one's parents and family. This principle underscores the significance of respecting and caring for those who have nurtured and guided us, fostering strong family bonds.
3. Courtesy: Courtesy epitomizes polite kindness and civility in all interactions. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and consideration, reflecting the values of politeness and empathy.
4. Justice: Justice embodies the qualities of being lawful, impartial, and honest. It signifies the unwavering commitment to fairness, integrity, and adherence to moral and legal principles, always choosing the correct and righteous path.
5. Faithfulness: Faithfulness denotes a true believer, one who remains loyal, truthful, and sincere in all endeavors. It reflects an unwavering commitment to upholding one's word and maintaining the trust of others.
6. Intelligence: Intelligence represents the ability to gather information, process it swiftly, and respond with wisdom and insight. It encompasses mental acuity and the capacity to make informed decisions, essential traits for success.
7. Virtue: Virtue encompasses an array of good moral qualities, from right actions and ethical thinking to rectitude and moral uprightness. It guides practitioners to lead a life steeped in moral excellence and ethical conduct.
8. Physical Soundness: Physical soundness signifies a strong and agile body. It highlights the importance of maintaining physical fitness, ensuring that the body remains capable and resilient, a vessel for the expression of martial prowess.
These eight foundational principles form the bedrock of the Jung Shin Gum Sool philosophy, guiding students on a path of self-improvement, martial mastery, and virtuous living. In embracing these principles, practitioners not only become skilled martial artists but also embody the values that have endured for centuries, fostering personal growth and contributing positively to society.
Jung Shin Sin Moo Kwan Hapkido & Kum Sool
6916 Piedmont Center Plaza Gainesville, VA 20155
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