Soo Bahk Do

                                                                                                 
Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan is the art and style of martial arts that we study at Garaguso Karate; Soo Bahk Do, being the art, and Moo Duk Kwan, being the style. It was created on November 9, 1945 by Grandmaster Hwang Kee. The basic ideal of the Moo Duk Kwan is the development of its participants. Strong individuals in Spirit and Body make strong communities, strong communities make strong nations, strong and peaceful nations make a strong and peaceful world. Soo Bahk Do, which is combat with bare hands and feet, is the only Korean martial art handed down from the Ko Ku Ryo Dynasty, thereby making it the oldest Korean martial art (aprox. 2,000 years old).

Two of the many things that separate Soo Bahk Do from all other arts and make it unique, are its versatility and philosophy. Because ancient Korea was constantly attacked by both Japan China, Soo Bahk Do became versatile out of necessity, the result being an art which demands mastery of the whole body, not just kicking and punching. Challenging techniques ranging from quick and spontaneous movements to slow graceful flowing movements gives not only variety but also challenges everyone.


Second, many styles teach effective self defense and fighting principles but Soo Bahk Do offers much more than just that. Learning fighting techniques without a strong philosophy is to burden society with more dangerous people. We use Soo Bahk Do to realize our full potential and emphasize "Virtue in action" demonstrating courage, discipline, confidence and humility through our sincere efforts in training and our behavior towards others. You won't just hear our philosophy, you'll see it in action.