Our Foundations of Hapkido

a) Be constantly alert to the teachings of your seniors, endeavoring always to master the way of Hapkido.

b) Developing yourself physically, mentally and spiritually should be your main objectives. Make yourself a better person.

c) Develop accuracy first, speed second.

d) Do not introduce excessive strength into your techniques because you can easily injure your partner.

e) Non-Resistance Principle: Never directly oppose an opponents strength. Move with him along the path of least resistance, or in the same direction he moves, thereby using his weight and momentum against him.

f) Circular Motion Principle: Control your opponent by leading his attack in a circular pattern, thereby adding his power to your own.

g) Water Principle: Flow in and around your opponent, don’t try to stop his force with your own, absorb it into your technique.

h) Keep your eyes on your attacker at all times.

i) Never underestimate your attacker.  Assume he knows as much about self-defense as you do.

j) Have respect for human life, as well as all other living things.

“It is better to hurt than to maim; to maim than to kill.”

k) Deal out the punishment which the situation demands. Never give your attacker a second chance - he might not give you one.  Never let up until your personal safety from further danger is assured.

l) Meet with fortitude any and all obstacles which may arise to hamper the attainment of your goals.

m) Avoid all unnecessary incidents.  Use this art for self-defense purposes only when all other means of self-preservation have failed.