Kuk Sool Won (Korea) is a Korean martial arts system, developed by In Hyuk Suh (the Kuk Sa Nim or Grandmaster). The name Kuk Sool Won means ‘National Martial Arts Federation’ and is often abbreviated to Kuk Sool. Today, Kuk Sool Won is practiced worldwide. Kuk Sool Won was developed as a martial arts system rather than a martial arts style. Kuk Sool does not focus on a single discipline but is a combination of all Korean martial arts.
In Hyuk Suh’s philosophy, his system was created to bring together and explore all Asian martial arts, develop body and mind, and train with weapons. Kuk Sool training also includes modern techniques such as defense against firearms and weapon improvisation. Kuk Sool has many facets and is suitable for self-defense, healing, conditioning, competition, enjoyment, and aesthetic purposes. Kuk Sool combines many different styles. Yet it has some distinctive characteristics that set it apart from traditional martial arts.
Kuk Sool is mainly characterized by low stances and smooth, graceful movements. Attention is also given to joint locks and pressure points. Kuk Sool is described as a martial arts style with hard and powerful strikes combined with fluid movements.
