What is Taekwondo
Taekwondo, or Tae Kwon Do, means “the art or the way of the hand and fist”. It’s a Korean martial art that emphasizes physical agility fostered through strength of the mind. Created in Korea in the 1940’s, and governed by World Taekwondo, it has been an Olympic sport since 2000. Practitioners wear uniforms, known as dobaks, and practice routines, known as forms, diligently to become proficient in mastering the art. Taekwondo classes are held at a school known as a dojang. Often abbreviated as “TKD”, Taekwondo has become one of the most popular forms of martial arts in America.
Who We Are
Established in 1974 | Same location, same great spirit!
We are a historic martial arts school located in the heart of Tampa, founded by Grandmaster Yung Ho Jun, 9th Dan Black Belt. Born in Seoul, Korea, Grandmaster Jun is among the highest and most honorably revered ranking black belts in the world. He is a former Republic of Korea (ROK) Special Forces Instructor and co-founder of Ko Am Mu Do. His experience in the art and sport of Taekwondo spans over half-century. This makes our Grandmaster one of the most qualified and experienced instructors in the United States.
We opened our doors in 1974 and still offer classes in the same building where it all began! Our Taekwondo classes are suited for all age ranges and experience levels. We welcome those joining us from other schools hoping to expand their experience under our Grandmaster. We also host an after school program complete with transportation from local elementary schools. For more information about our adult, child, or after school programs please give us a call, we’d love to speak with you!
Grandmaster Yung Ho Jun, 9th Dan Black Belt
Grandmaster Jun is the founder of Yung Ho Martial Arts, President of Chang Moo Kwon, & Co-founder of Ko Am Mu Do. He has been invited as a guest of honor to dojangs across the world as a keynote speaker for martial arts and Taekwondo events and to facilitate trainings, demos, and workshops. With over a half-century of training and experience, Grandmaster Jun has been a partner and mentor to many practitioners and organizations throughout his lifetime. He has been featured in Taekwondo Times multiple times and is among the most revered and respected Grandmasters in the world.
- 1959 Chief Master Instructor of R.O.K. Special Forces
- 1961 Director of Korea Tae Soo Do Association
- 1966 World Tour: Exhibition & training of Masters & Instructors
- 1972 President of US National TKD Chang Moo Kwan in U.S.
- 1974 Founder & President of American Taekwondo Union
- 1982 President of World Martial Arts Federation
- 1986 9th Dan Black Belt by Chang Moo Kwan
- 1990 9th Dan Black Belt by by Kukkiwon
- 1993 Co-Founder of Ko Am Mu Do
- 2008 US Taekwondo Grandmaster Society Hall of Fame
