MARTIAL ARTS
태 권 도
Grandmaster Bruce Chongman Ham
Hosinsul self-defence
Taekwondo trains concentration
Grandmaster Bruce Chongman Ham
Taekwondo – The Way of Strength, Balance and Character
Taekwondo (태권도) is a traditional Korean martial art that was originally developed as a system of unarmed self-defense. Over time, it has evolved into a powerful practice for physical fitness, mental focus and personal growth.
The name Taekwondo reflects its essence:
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Tae (태) means foot, representing the dynamic leg techniques
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Kwon (권) means fist, symbolizing hand techniques
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Do (도) means the way or path, referring to the philosophical and mental discipline behind the art
Together, Taekwondo is not just a sport, but a way of cultivating body, mind and character.
Physical Expression and Inner Discipline
A defining feature of Taekwondo is its emphasis on flexibility, speed and precision. It is particularly known for its high, powerful kicks and dynamic leg techniques involving jumps and spins – setting it apart from many other martial arts.
Beyond physical conditioning, Taekwondo supports:
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Coordination and balance
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Concentration and mental clarity
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Self-confidence and self-control
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Discipline, respect and resilience
For many practitioners, these qualities extend far beyond training and positively influence everyday life.
A Brief History of Taekwondo
The roots of Taekwondo reach back more than 2,000 years to the era of Korea’s Three Kingdoms. Early forms such as Tae Kyeon (태견), also called Subak, were practiced by warriors of the Goguryeo kingdom and the Hwarang of the Shilla kingdom. These practices emphasized agility, strength and moral integrity.
During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910 – 1945), martial arts were prohibited and continued only in secret or abroad. After 1945, Korean martial arts re-emerged, influenced by other Asian disciplines such as Karate and Kung Fu, and were taught through various schools known as Kwans. The Korean Military also adapted the ancient practices.
In 1959, the Korean Taekwondo Association (KTA) was founded to unify these styles. It later evolved into World Taekwondo (WT), the globally recognized governing body whose style is practiced at the Olympic Games. Alongside it, the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) also exists, representing a different lineage and approach.
The Philosophy of Taekwondo
At its core, Taekwondo is deeply philosophical. It is rooted in the principles of Yin and Yang and the cosmic trinity of Heaven, Earth and Man. Its ultimate aim is not domination, but harmony – within oneself and with the world.
The practice seeks to cultivate ethical and moral values, respect, discipline and responsibility. The idea is simple yet profound: by strengthening the individual, society as a whole benefits.
This philosophy is expressed through the five tenets of Taekwondo:
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예의 (Yeo Ui) – Courtesy and respect
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엄치 (Eom Chi) – Integrity
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인내 (In Nae) – Perseverance
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극기 (Geuk Gi) – Self-control
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백절불굴 (Baek Jeol Bul Gul) – Indomitable spirit
These principles are meant to guide not only training, but life itself.
Bruce’s Path in Taekwondo
His personal journey with Taekwondo began in childhood in South Korea. As a shy and introverted child, Bruce was introduced to Taekwondo at the age of eight. Through consistent training, he developed confidence, discipline and a strong sense of self – marking the beginning of a lifelong passion for martial arts.
Over the years, he expanded his training into Hapkido, Jujitsu, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Judo, Kali and Muay Thai. Bruce achieved 6th Dan in Taekwondo, 7th Dan in Hapkido, and master levels in Tai Chi and Qi Gong. As a teenager, he competed successfully and won titles including the Korean Junior Championships in Taekwondo.
From 1994 to 2008, Bruce owned and directed the Omni Martial Arts Academy in Naples, Florida, where he taught and guided students of all ages and backgrounds.
More than a Martial Art
Taekwondo shaped who Bruce is – far beyond the sports. It taught him how important inner strength, respect and resilience are - not only for training but for life. Today, these values continue to accompany Bruce and influence his holistic work with clients who seek more balance, confidence and personal growth.
Taekwondo is not about fighting others.
It is about mastering yourself – and walking your path with strength and integrity.
Ki Hapkido –
Strength Through Energy, Balance and Awareness
Ki Hapkido places special emphasis on Ki (기) – also known as Qi – the vital life force that flows through all living beings. This inner energy is the foundation of movement, resilience and conscious power.
Ki Hapkido is a holistic martial arts system that Bruce developed by integrating traditional Hapkido self-defense techniques with specific Qi Gong exercises, as well as the practical application of meridians and acupressure points. This combination creates a system that works not only on a physical level, but also on energetic awareness, presence and balance.
Unlike purely force-based martial arts, Ki Hapkido teaches how to move with energy rather than against it. By working with the natural energy flow, techniques become more efficient, grounded and adaptable – supporting both effective self-defense and personal well-being.
More than Self-Defense
Ki Hapkido is designed to protect, but also to heal. Through conscious movement, breath and energy awareness, the practice supports:
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physical coordination and strength
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improved energy circulation and vitality
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mental focus and clarity
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emotional stability and stress release
In this way, Ki Hapkido offers health benefits similar to Qi Gong, while maintaining the practical effectiveness of a martial art. It is especially suitable for people who seek confidence, grounding and inner strength without unnecessary aggression.
Ki Hapkido Academy
In 2018, Bruce founded the Ki Hapkido Academy, where he regularly teaches Ki Hapkido classes, as well as practical self-defense courses. The academy offers a supportive environment for beginners and experienced practitioners alike – focusing on personal growth, awareness and sustainable strength.
Ki Hapkido is not about overpowering others.
It is about learning to stand strong, centered and connected to yourself.
If you are interested in learning more, Bruce warmly invites you to explore the Ki Hapkido Academy and discover whether this path resonates with you.
