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My interview before the USA HK Seminar 2024 below is from Chad Behrend, TSD 6 Dan, TKD 7 Dan, with Tae Kwon Do Times in the USA 🇺🇸
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1. Can you tell us your name and background on your kumdo training?
Kim Jeong Seong, Chong Jae, President and Founder of the United World Haedong Kumdo Federation: Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu
I have a strong background in Haedong Kumdo training, specifically in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu, created by my passion and endeavors.
Refer to my credentials on this site for more detailed information.
■ https://m.cafe.daum.net/uwhkf/MbWZ/25?svc=cafeapp
2. Can you tell us about the name and meaning of your art?
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu stands out among other Haedong Kumdo federations due to several distinct features:
1) Emphasis on Double-Sword Technique:
While many other federations focus primarily on single-sword techniques, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu places a significant emphasis on mastering the use of two swords simultaneously. This double-sword technique requires advanced coordination, dexterity, and concentration, setting our federation apart in terms of complexity and skill level.
2)
Incorporation of Internal Energy Arts:
In addition to physical techniques, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu incorporates internal energy arts such as Ki training. This aspect of training emphasizes harnessing and manipulating the body's energy for improved performance and overall well-being, adding depth and dimension to our martial arts practice.
3) Holistic Development Approach:
While physical skills are essential, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu takes a holistic approach to development, encompassing not only physical prowess but also mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. Our training programs include elements of philosophy, meditation, and healing practices, aiming to cultivate well-rounded practitioners who excel both on and off the training mat.
In summary, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu distinguishes itself through its focus on double-sword technique, incorporation of internal energy arts, and holistic approach to martial arts training, offering a comprehensive and enriching experience for practitioners seeking to deepen their skills and understanding of Haedong Kumdo.
To sum it up;
What is JINYOUNG SSANGKUM RYU?
A) Terminology
1) JINYOUNG(진영:眞英) ;
a pen name and heavenly one for a founder of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu with United World Haedong Kumdo Federation.
2) SSANGKUM(쌍검: 雙劍) ;
Ssang(雙)means two or double,
Kum(劍) means sword.
3) RYU(類) ;
Ryu means a school or type, system, or style
B) The meaning of JINYOUNG SSANGKUM RYU( 진영쌍검류: 眞英 雙劍類)
Jin(眞) literally means
Truth, constancy, naturalness, everlastingness, Heaven, paradise and also has meanings like pureness, essence, spirit, and even Buddha in Buddhism.
Young(英) literally means
Brave, corolla, seed, feather, etc. But it figuratively means the best of bunch, glory, pure and pretty in appearance, and also has a meanings like an unsurpassed leader with value, wisdom, and courage to represent the world.
Therefore,
Jin Young is ;
The name to be given to the one who’s mission is to help others recognise the order of Nature, to lead them to practice awareness in their life and contribute to their health and happiness.
Finally,
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu is ;
Two Swords System based on skills of one sword with both hands together and single hand with one sword.
3. What is the main focus of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu training?
The main focus of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu training is on developing precision, speed, and agility in sword techniques
while cultivating mental fortitude and discipline.
In the training of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo
Through Ki-Mu training, one becomes aware of the flow of energy - Mindfulness and Awareness.
Even Breathing and Normal Mind form the foundation of all practices - Enlightenment.
By employing one or two swords,
one seeks mental and physical training to grasp how to move the body automatically
- the principle of body movement.
Practitioners engage in Ki Mu Practice,
a training method that cultivates a deep connection with the flow of energy.
- Flow of Energy
This practice fosters a heightened state of mindfulness and awareness, where even the act of breathing and maintaining composure becomes the foundation of all training endeavors, ultimately leading to enlightenment.
- Enlightenment
Through the use of one or two swords in physical training,
practitioners gain a profound understanding of the principles of body movement.
Ki Mu training emphasizes the importance of maintaining Even Breathing and a state of Normal Mind (composure),
while sword training focuses on achieving body harmony and balance. - Mastery of how to move the body automatically
■ Ki-Mu Training - Even Breathing and Normal Mind
○ Seeing the Light Energy
○ Following the Flow of Energy
○ Mastery of the principle of natural and automatical movements
○ Awareness of the Energy operating in the Body
○ Understanding the Functioning of Energy in Each Organ, and so on
■ Sword Training - Harmony and Balance
○ The Sword as an Extension of the Arm
○ The Sword's Movements Follow the Body's One.
○ Body (+E) Movements Follow My Mind
○ My Mind (+E) Follows the Energy (Love) of Nature
☆ Simbeop (Mind Method)
☆ Sinbeop (Body Method)
☆ Dobeop (Sword Method)
=> Understanding the Triadic Structural Principles
■ Healing System with Vipassana Acupuncture Practice
Identifying the blockages and openings of energy in uncomfortable or painful areas and establishing the communication of energy to return to balance and harmony through practice.
The methods of practice include meditation, acupuncture, using stones, swords, and any other tools.
The principle of the body moving automatically and naturally is based on the fundamental concept that my body is not truly mine, and the energy is not mine either.
All the above training methods share the same underlying essence, providing a common foundation.
Whether it is sword training or
acupuncture, regardless of the tool used, it becomes a tool for my mental and physical training, leading to the elevation of martial skills and guiding human life to a better state.
Therefore, the reason why all practice and religious groups use phrases such as "forget yourself," "discard yourself," or "empty mind" becomes clear through experiencing and understanding directly through Ki-Mu practice with one or two sword training.
In summary:
As practitioners delve deeper into their training, they come to realize that their body is not separate from themselves but rather a vessel through which energy flows.
This understanding leads to a state where the body moves instinctively, and practitioners recognize the impermanence of self-identity.
This principle is echoed in various other spiritual and training disciplines that encourage individuals to let go of self-centeredness and transcend their limitations.
Through the integration of Ki Mu Su Practice and sword training, practitioners are able to directly experience and comprehend the rationale behind the emphasis on selflessness and self-transcendence in all forms of training and spiritual pursuits.
This holistic approach enables individuals to achieve higher levels of accomplishment beyond mere mastery of martial arts techniques, which is the goal of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo training
Ultimately, the training in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu leads practitioners to the right practice for better training and a better life as well.
4. What distinguishes Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu from other Haedong Kumdo federations?
What sets Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu apart from other Haedong Kumdo federations is our emphasis on double-sword techniques, our incorporation of internal energy arts like Ki training, and our focus on holistic development rather than solely physical skills.
From a skills perspective, there are primarily three types of Haedong Kumdo in Korea. One employs a system where one sword is wielded with both hands together, another utilizes one sword with a single hand. Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo incorporates a two-sword system based on both single-handed and both-handed techniques. Even within Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu, unlike other styles, there is a distinct system for practicing three specialties with integrity: skills, philosophy, and healing.
5. Please tell us more about the double sword training .
Double sword training in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu entails mastering the coordination and fluidity of wielding two swords simultaneously, which demands advanced dexterity and concentration.
We offer various methods for mastering double swords, including:
- Ssangkumbups (Forms with two swords)
- Ssangkyeokkum (Sparring with two swords)
- Ssangkum Chackbaldosul (Drawing & sheathing with two swords)
- Ssangkum sword dance (Sword dance with two swords)
- Ssangkum Begi (Cutting with two swords)
- Ssangkumgoksul (Kicking with two swords)
These methods build upon skills acquired with one sword, using both hands together and a single hand, such as Ssangsukumbups and Weisukumbups.
6. I understand that you are teaching Ki or internal energy arts. Please describe this type of training.
Ki training, or internal energy arts, in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu focuses on harnessing and directing one's internal energy for enhanced focus, power, and control during combat. We call it Kimu for Energy Flow training. Some brief explanations are as follows;
- Ki-Mu (without swords)
What is Ki Mu?
The term "Ki" is synonymous with Chi or Qi, representing energy, specifically the body's vital energy or universal energy. "Mu" pertains to Martial Arts or, more precisely, just Martial.
Together, they signify Energy in Martial Arts, yet the study of Ki Mu extends beyond this definition. A comparison to Tai Chi might help people grasp its essence better. Ki Mu involves the cultivation of vital energy through breath and movement, aiming to facilitate the healthy flow of Ki energy throughout the body.
There are three steps to train Energy Flow, guiding individuals toward correct practices for better training and a better life:
First step: Relax and Feel the Energy
Second step: Focus and See it
Third step: Realize and Do it
This unique system allows practitioners to grasp the essence and reality of Energy Flow, aligning with the natural wavelength. Ultimately, it enables them to understand how energy functions and where it flows, particularly in identifying blocked or unblocked areas in the body for healing others.
7. What are some of the benefits of training in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu?
Some benefits of training in Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu include improved physical fitness, mental clarity, self-discipline, and a deeper understanding of Muye (martial arts and philosopy).
As mentioned earlier, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu emphasizes teaching practitioners how to achieve Self-Acquirement, which serves as a guide for improved training and a better life overall. Through this training, individuals will ultimately discover the means to pursue correct practice throughout their lives. This entails finding the right path for advancing training while maintaining health and happiness in moderation.
Moreover, practitioners can uncover the essence and reality of meditation, prayer, and even various philosophies, including those related to humanities, etc.
8. Are you an international organization, and if so, which countries participate?
Yes, we are an international organization with participants from various countries around the world who share a passion for Korean martial arts.
9. Does Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu focus more on sword hyung of live cutting exercises with a sharp blade?
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu places equal emphasis on both sword forms (hyung) and live cutting exercises with a sharp blade. This approach allows practitioners to develop both technical proficiency and practical skills. Training with a sharp blade is available to practitioners immediately after achieving a 1st dan black belt. In the case of underage practitioners, even if they attain a 1st dan black belt, they will use an aluminum sword. Before reaching this level, practitioners train with a wooden sword.
10. How does one advance in your sword art?
Advancement in our sword art is attained through dedicated practice, mastery of techniques, and successfully passing examinations to advance to higher ranks. For further guidance and to facilitate progress in sword training, individuals are encouraged to contact a representative of their respective national Haedong Kumdo Association.
11. Do you also offer training seminars in Korea for people wanting
to learn and explore Korean culture?
Yes, we do offer training seminars in Korea for individuals interested in learning and exploring Korean culture
through martial arts.
12. How does one go about getting info on your organization?
For more information about our organization, interested individuals can visit our website at www.haedongkumdo.co.kr or connect with us through our official social media channels, such as our YouTube channel "Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Kim Jeong Seong" and Facebook. Additionally, inquiries can be sent via email to haedongkum@gmail.com.
13. Is there anything else you would like to speak about or explain to the audience about Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu?
One aspect worth highlighting about Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu is our commitment to preserving and promoting the traditional values and techniques of Korean martial arts while also adapting to modern training methods and philosophies.
Many esteemed martial arts instructors in Korea, including Taekwondo and Hapkido masters, migrated to the United States over forty to fifty years ago, imparting numerous techniques that surpassed physical limitations.
However, as an author and founder, I have taken a distinct path. Through the publication of various textbooks, including two English ones titled "Think out of the box through Haedong Kumdo Training" and "Searching for the forgotten half in martial arts," I precisely delineate the direction modern martial arts should take in the 21st century and its ultimate goal.
These books vividly illustrate how to train the body and mind in martial arts, how to apply them in real life after mastering them, and what constitutes proper training. For more detailed insights, one can refer to the aforementioned two books. In summary, the author emphasizes that martial arts cannot achieve its ultimate goal for modern individuals in the 21st century if it lacks any of the three elements: skills, philosophy, and healing.
In particular, Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo has upgraded the existing Haedong Kumdo by incorporating the missing aspects of healing and philosophy, which are essential components that must be mastered in martial arts. Training for healing and philosophy necessarily begins with the primary Acquisition of "Energy Flow,: Self- Acquirement" which becomes the key to lifelong training and cultivating a serene and abundant life for each individual.
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu emphasizes these facts as the fundamental core and essence, teaching in accordance with the principles, laws, and truths of nature. Through the upcoming seminar in the United States, myself, along with HK masters and instructors in the USA, aim to convey these principles and truths.
■ Reference;
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https://m.cafe.daum.net/uwhkf/MbWZ/62?svc=cafeapp