Feedback of the 2026 Bulgarian Seminar Written by Philip Baytchev, 4th Dan

[HAEDONG]

In Spanish & Korean
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Reflexiones sobre el Seminario de Bulgaria de 2026 Escrito por Philip

Bulgaria JSKR Haedong Kumdo Seminar

From my perspective, the Bulgaria JSKR Haedong Kumdo Seminar was a wonderful and meaningful experience.

During the first few days, I was unable to participate fully in the training because of my back problem. All I could do was observe the sessions and assist Grandmaster Kim whenever necessary. Nevertheless, this gave me an opportunity to watch everyone more carefully. I could clearly see their passion and desire to continue learning. We also had several new members who learned very quickly and performed very well.

The most meaningful part of the seminar for me began when we went to Borovets. Ten people participated, all eager to learn more about KiMu training and healing. This impressed me greatly because it was the first time we had received such detailed instruction about healing. Everyone listened very attentively and tried earnestly to remember as much as possible.

There was a great deal of information to absorb, but for me, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. Through KiMu training, I began to understand more clearly how we can connect ourselves with nature.

I also realized that healing is not simply about KiMu exercises or the technical use of needles. It requires persistent training and an effort to become a better person in daily life. We must learn not to be greedy, not to become controlled by anger, and not to behave foolishly. By correcting ourselves in everyday life, we can gradually become more connected with nature and begin to understand how the invisible world works.

An Experience with My Mother

One week after the seminar, my family and Marinela went to Bansko, a well-known ski resort. One day, while my mother and father were hiking, they had to cross a river. My mother slipped, and my father suddenly grabbed her hand to prevent her from falling. At that moment, she felt severe pain in her shoulder.

The pain continued throughout the day. Later, I told her that I could carefully try what I had practiced under Grandmaster Kim’s guidance. I understood that this was not a substitute for professional medical care and that she should receive a proper medical examination if the pain persisted or became worse.

There was no bleeding or visible wound, but she was experiencing considerable pain. I first placed needles at the first and second points on her palm, according to what I had learned. She then told me that she felt some relief.

I felt that one more point might be needed. Before doing anything further, I stopped and breathed slowly three times. I tried to empty my mind and avoid forcing myself to find an answer. Inwardly, I asked nature to guide me toward the appropriate point that might help relieve her pain.

When I opened my eyes, my attention was drawn toward the center of her palm. I carefully placed another needle there. While the needles remained in place, I continued asking my mother how she felt and carefully observed her condition.

After approximately 15 to 20 minutes, she told me that the pain had disappeared and that her shoulder felt comfortable again. She thanked me after the experience. Later that day and throughout the following day, she did not experience any further pain.

What I Learned

This experience taught me that before trying to help another person, I must first calm and balance myself. I should not become anxious or force myself to decide what to do. Instead, I must breathe, clear my mind, observe carefully, and remain attentive to what I feel.

However, I also understand that this single experience does not mean that I am qualified to treat other people. Healing is a long path that requires knowledge, discipline, humility, and continuous guidance.

When working with needles, we must accept responsibility for every action we take. Therefore, I must be extremely careful and remain within the limits of what Grandmaster Kim has permitted me to practice. At present, my practice is limited to the palm, and I should not attempt needling other parts of the body or treating other people on my own.

This experience strengthened my determination to practice consistently. However, persistence alone is not enough. I must also develop proper judgment, responsibility, and character. I must learn to control anger, avoid greed and foolish behavior, and try to live correctly in my daily life.

Through this process, I hope that I can gradually become a better martial artist, a better person, and one day become capable of helping others responsibly under the proper guidance.

Gratitude

Apart from the formal classes, I would first like to thank Grandmaster Kim, my father, Victor, and Alexander for making this seminar so unique, inspiring, and interesting.

We also shared many enjoyable moments together—laughing, playing cards, and listening to entertaining stories told by people from different countries. These moments made the seminar even more memorable and brought everyone closer together.

Thank you!

Philip Baytchev
4th Dan
JSKR Haedong Kumdo Bulgaria