Escambia Martial Arts

Kyuki-Do Basic Information

Find important student information for Escambia Martial Arts including class expectations, dojo etiquette, uniforms, attendance, belt progression, training guidelines, and beginner resources for Kyuki-Do students and families.

Kyuki-Do Basic Information

Founder of the American Kyuki-Do Federation

Grand Master Ok Hyung Kim Kyuki-Do was introduced to the United States in 1967 by Grand Master Ok Hyung Kim. In 1979, he founded the American Kyuki-Do Federation (AKF) to serve as the official sanctioning body for the art, ensuring consistency, integrity, and tradition across affiliated schools.

Purpose of Kyuki-Do

The purpose of Kyuki-Do is to create individuals who are physically and mentally progressive and productive. The ultimate goal is neither victory nor defeat, but the perfection of character in its participants.

Meaning of Kyuki-Do

Kyuki-Do means spark or explosion signifying the sudden release or burst of energy that accompanies the successful execution of any fighting technique.

Symbol of Kyuki-Do

The symbol of Kyuki-Do is a keyhole shape, representing the entrance into a new way of life. The hands were modeled by Grand Master Ok Hyung Kim:

The closed fist symbolizes evil and power (Yang)

The closed fist symbolizes evil and power (Yang)

The open hand symbolizes good and peace (Eaum)

The open hand symbolizes good and peace (Eaum)

Together, they reflect the harmonious survival of opposites in the world we live in. The Chinese kanji at the base read: Kyu Ki Do.

Kyuki-Do Pledges

I shall respect the instructor and all senior ranks.

I shall respect the instructor and all senior ranks.

I shall conduct myself in a respectful manner.

I shall conduct myself in a respectful manner.

I shall respect the teachings of Kyuki-Do and never misuse them.

I shall respect the teachings of Kyuki-Do and never misuse them.

I shall always respect the rights of others.

I shall always respect the rights of others.

I shall strive for camaraderie and peace in the world.

I shall strive for camaraderie and peace in the world.

Tenets of Kyuki-Do

Courtesy – Treating people with the respect they deserve.

Courtesy – Treating people with the respect they deserve.

Humility – Recognizing that accomplishments do not make you better than others.

Humility – Recognizing that accomplishments do not make you better than others.

Integrity – Knowing right from wrong and choosing what is right.

Integrity – Knowing right from wrong and choosing what is right.

Perseverance – Continuing even in the face of adversity.

Perseverance – Continuing even in the face of adversity.

Self-Control – Exercising restraint and command over thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Self-Control – Exercising restraint and command over thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Indomitable Spirit – The spark that gives you the power to persevere.

Indomitable Spirit – The spark that gives you the power to persevere.

Theory of Power (T.O.P.)

Concentration – Focusing energy and impact on the smallest target area using kihap (yell).

Concentration – Focusing energy and impact on the smallest target area using kihap (yell).

Reaction Force – Using reciprocal action to maintain balance and increase force.

Reaction Force – Using reciprocal action to maintain balance and increase force.

Equilibrium – Maintaining proper stability during technique execution.

Equilibrium – Maintaining proper stability during technique execution.

Breath Control – Exhaling at impact to tighten muscles and increase speed.

Breath Control – Exhaling at impact to tighten muscles and increase speed.

Speed and Mass – Increasing force through acceleration or body weight behind technique.

Speed and Mass – Increasing force through acceleration or body weight behind technique.

© 2026 Escambia Martial Arts. All rights reserved.1110 S Hwy 29 | Cantonment, FL 32533 | 850.679.3085Veteran owned and operated Logos and marks are registered trademarks of the American Kyuki-Do Federation and are used with permission. Accessibility

Take the next step

Questions about this part of training? EMA can help you choose the right starting point.

Try a ClassContact EMA
CallTry a Class