WAY OF THE SWORD

MUYE
KUMSUL

Kumdo literally translates from Korean to English as “Sword Way” or “Way of the Sword”. At Jung martial Arts Family Center, the Susquehanna Kumdo Club trains in a combination of two different schools of the Way of the Sword. Dae Han Kumdo, which is fencing with the “Jookdo” Bamboo Sword, while wearing “Hogu”, protective armor. And MuYe Kum Sul, which is the art of cutting techniques with a sharp sword.

Dae Han KumDo

Dae Han Kumdo mirrors the Japanese art of Kendo physically. The mechanical or physical forces and motion of Kumdo is the identical to Kendo. The difference between the two can be found in the terminology and ideology.

MuYe Kum Sul

MuYe Kum Sul is the study of drawing and cutting with the sword. The physical aspects involve learning to draw, sheath and cut with the Sword.

The Purpose of Sword Training in modern times

The goal of Kumdo training is controlling the mind and body together. The curriculum of the JMAFC / SVK program is designed to progressively reduce the natural gap that exists between our mind and body. When we train, we are presented with physical movements that must be learned and performed with acute accuracy. Likewise, we are presented with the cognitive material that helps us learn, understand and perform the physical movements. In the beginning the gap between the two, (mental and physical), is great. As we progress through the curriculum, the gap between mind and body narrows. In Kumdo this begins to happen very quickly. The curriculum also encompasses the natural and moral philosophy of Kumdo.

Many practitioners of other Martial Arts who practice Kumdo, quickly realize an increase in focus and development of their various other Martial Arts skills.

Practicing traditional Korean swordsmanship, such as the art of Kumdo and MuYe KumSul, offers many unique benefits:

Cultural Preservation: It helps preserve and promote traditional Korean martial arts, maintaining a connection to Korea's historical and cultural heritage.
Physical Fitness and Coordination: Sword practice improves physical fitness, strength, agility, and hand-eye coordination, which are beneficial regardless of technological advancements.
Mental Discipline: Sword training cultivates mental discipline, focus, patience, and mindfulness, which are essential in all aspects of life, including in modern firearm use.
Self-Defense Skills: While less practical for modern combat compared to firearms, swordsmanship provides self-defense techniques and enhances situational awareness, which can be valuable in certain contexts.
Character Development: It promotes values such as respect, humility, perseverance, and self-control, fostering personal growth and character development.
Artistic Expression: It offers a form of artistic expression through the mastery of techniques, forms (kata), and possibly even competitive sparring.
Historical Insight: Learning traditional swordsmanship provides insights into historical combat techniques and strategies, enriching understanding of military history and martial arts evolution.
Community and Tradition: Participation in a traditional sword school fosters a sense of community among practitioners and connects them with a tradition that spans centuries.
Mind-Body Connection: Like HapKiDo, Korean swordsmanship emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit, promoting holistic well-being.
Balance in Technology: In a world increasingly dominated by technology and automation, practicing a traditional martial art like Korean swordsmanship offers a balanced and grounding experience that reconnects practitioners with physical and historical roots.

In essence, while firearms have largely replaced swords in military and practical applications, the practice of traditional Korean swordsmanship continues to offer numerous benefits, both practical and philosophical, that remain relevant in the modern age.