Research archive for Kuk Sool history and terminology
This site documents terminology, training concepts, and historical developments within Kuk Sool practice.
Where possible, information is derived from published sources, instructor materials, and historical references.
The project is intended as a research archive and reference resource rather than an authoritative governing source for Kuk Sool organizations.
Kuk Sool Research is an independent historical and terminology project.
It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any martial arts organization, including but not limited to the World Kuk Sool Association (WKSA) or other Kuk Sool federations.
The purpose of this project is educational documentation, historical preservation, and personal study.
“Kuk Sool Won” and related marks are trademarks of the World Kuk Sool Association.
References to these marks are used solely for historical, educational, and descriptive purposes.
If an organization, instructor, or practitioner believes information has been presented inaccurately, please contact the project maintainer so that sources may be reviewed and corrections considered.
This site accompanies my personal study and documentation of Kuk Sool, including its terminology, history, lineage, and philosophical foundations.
It reflects both my martial arts training history and my current efforts to engage more deeply with the art—physically, intellectually, and historically—during this stage of life.
The project combines personal training experience with a growing body of research intended to support thoughtful study and historical awareness within the Kuk Sool community.
I began formal Korean martial arts training in the early 1980s and was awarded the rank of 1st Degree Black Belt (Cho Dan) in Hapkido through the World Kong Shin Bup Association on September 1, 1986.
This certification recognized me with the instructional title:
조교 (Ju Kyo) — Assistant Instructor
On June 30, 2001, I earned the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt (Sam Dan) in Kuk Sool Won through the World Kuk Sool Association, under the authority and signature of Grandmaster In Hyuk Suh, founder of WKSA.
This rank is traditionally associated with the title:
부사범님 (Bu Sa Bum Nim) — Assistant Instructor
My training during this period was based in Traverse City, Michigan, and followed the classical WKSA curriculum, including hyung (forms), joint-locking systems, weapons training, and foundational philosophy.
As of 2026, I have begun aligning my ongoing training interests with United Mirae Kuk Sool (UMKS), founded by Master Sung Jin Suh.
My interest in UMKS reflects an appreciation for its emphasis on preserving Kuk Sool’s traditional foundations while exploring future directions for training and instruction.
While I do not currently hold formal certification or rank recognition within UMKS, my intention is to continue training and studying within that broader lineage.
In personal conversation, Master Sung Jin Suh has occasionally referred to me informally as:
“My Bu Sa Bum Nim”
This phrase reflects mutual respect and shared training lineage rather than any formal organizational designation.
This project exists to:
This is not an official organizational website.
It is a personal research and documentation effort, shared publicly to encourage thoughtful study and historical awareness.
Last updated: 2026-03-16