The individual claimed that their martial arts school, known as a Hwarang dojang, traced its origins to the Silla period of Korea, emphasizing its historical significance. Former members of this dojang have visited or joined our dojang, located approximately seven miles away. I personally interacted with the head instructor, whom I encountered unexpectedly at a shopping mall. He approached me after noticing I was wearing a martial arts shirt featuring the “Moral Code” in Hanja, attributed to the ancient Hwarang.
At the time, I was in my early 30s and held a fifth-degree black belt, indicating considerable experience. Based on the instructor’s mannerisms, I deduced he was a few years younger than I was and held the title of ninth-degree “Kwan Jang Nim,” the successor to his grandmaster. The use of this title raised concerns about his authentic training in Korea, serving as an initial warning sign that this could be a cult-like organization.
Most cults tend to have religious undertones and exert tight control over members. It is important to recognize similar behaviors within martial arts schools. I will outline some issues that may indicate problematic practices in martial arts systems. Whether you are new to martial arts or experienced, maintaining awareness is essential. Some groups have perpetuated lies and embellishments for so long that they obscure traditional systems designed for honest student development, rather than ego stroking or financial gain.
Signs your Dojang is a possible Cult!
Are they claiming remarkable things?
Having been training in Hapkido and Kuksool and having taken many classes and seminars in the art of Hwarangdo® I knew well the history of the modern founding of these arts. The modern fonder of the martial art of “Hwarangdo” is Lee, Joo-bong in the 1960s. But, it was this young man’s use of the title that first set my radar off….He used the title “Kwan Jang Nim” and any competent person, knows, you never call yourself that, its something others say to you, but that sadly is common in the western world, the misuse of titles, but also because he use the honorific “Nim” which you would never do if you had any training with an actual native of Korea!
Are you actively discouraged from asking questions?
When you ask questions, are they deflected or answered in a vague way? I asked the gentleman who he trained under and which organization gave him the rank. In Korea at the time, only a handful of organizations would certify such a thing, I already knew he wasn’t a student of Grandmaster Lee, Joo-bang as I am familiar with all his senior blackbelts. But, is answer so “Grandmaster Kim of Korea.” And, well, considering the family name of KIM is the most common last name in Korea, you can see that’s vague, at best. I then asked “so you must know Grandmaster Lee, Joo-bang, and the head other the Kido Hae in Korea, and thinking he would say yes, this young man just answered with “no.”
