Tang Soo Do is a traditional martial art from Korea. Some experts state that Won Kuk Lee (shown above) is the founder.  Tang Soo Do is a primary system of empty handed self defense dating back about 2,000 years. This martial art was originally used as a way for the common people to protect themselves from the sword of the Samurai.  Tang Soo Do means "way of the China hand."  China is mentioned in the name (The Tang dynasty) because of the shared cultural between the two countries.  Japan occupied Korea at one time and forbade the Koreans from practicing their traditional arts.  Many people fled Korea to go to China.. 

Tang Soo Do teaches the student to use hand and kicking striking techniques to overcome an attacker.  While there are certain weapons that some students learn how to use, and there are many techniques designed to defend against weapons, the art of Tang Soo Do is the art of un-armed, "open-handed" self defense.

Contrary to the understanding of many non-practitioners, Tang Soo Do is not a sport or a hobby. It is a way of life, a path to follow. As such, it carries with it not only techniques for striking and blocking and kicking, but a philosophy for living, mental aspects to be cultivated, respect to be given and earned and more.