What is Hapkido?
In Singapore, when one thinks of Korean martial arts, Taekwondo usually comes to mind. However, in South Korea, there is another martial art that is equally popular—Hapkido, the Korean martial art of self-defence. Hapkido encompasses a diverse array of techniques, including joint locks, grappling, kicks, strikes, pressure point techniques, and proficiency with various weapons such as the short stick, rope, cane, and more—all strategically employed to neutralize opponents.
Hapkido Documentary
Discovery Channel’s Fight Quest features an episode dedicated to Hapkido. In this episode, hosts Jimmy Smith and Doug Anderson travel to Seoul, South Korea, to train under seasoned Hapkido Grandmasters. They immerse themselves in the rigorous physical and mental discipline required to master this versatile self-defense system. Throughout the episode, the hosts experience intense drills, sparring sessions, and demonstrations of Hapkido’s techniques, giving viewers an in-depth look at the art’s philosophy of blending offensive and defensive strategies.
Hapkido in Movies
Hapkido was heavily involved in the 1970s when the Hong Kong film industry bloomed. Bruce Lee who was influenced by Hapkido through Hapkido Grandmaster Hwang In-Shik introduced various kicks to his movies. Later in the 1980s, martial arts movie actors like Jackie Chan and Sammo Hung also learned and incorporated Hapkido into their films. The famous fight scene between Jackie Chan and GM Hwang in the movie The Young Master and Dragon Lord was Hapkido in action.
Hapkido in the Forces
The effectiveness of Hapkido has made it a trusted choice for professionals in high-stakes environments. It’s used by Korean police forces, military units, and presidential bodyguards. In Singapore, Hapkido has also been taught to the Navy and various specialised police forces due to its effectiveness in arrest and enforcement situations.
Hapkido doesn’t rely on brute strength. Instead, it utilises the power of your opponent against them, harnessing the mechanics of the human body through the use of small circles, triangles, and precise angles. You’ll learn powerful hand strikes, unique leg kicks, and myriads of locking techniques that can quickly and effectively subdue an opponent. This makes it especially suitable for anyone looking for a practical means of self-defense. Hapkido teaches you how to protect yourself confidently and effectively, regardless of your size or strength.
