About Tang Soo Do
A Traditional Korean Martial Art with Over 2,000 Years of Heritage
The Art of Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art whose name translates as "The Way of the China Hand." It is a striking art built on powerful kicks, hand techniques, blocks, and forms, practiced alongside a code of conduct that shapes the character of the student as much as the body.
Its roots reach back more than two thousand years to the Three Kingdoms period of Korea, around 37 BC. The modern art is often described as roughly 60% Soo Bahk, 30% Northern Chinese, and 10% Southern Chinese influence — a blend of the native Korean fighting arts with techniques carried along the trade routes.
The art flourished under the Silla Dynasty (618-935 AD) and was suppressed during the Japanese occupation of Korea from 1909 to 1945. In 1936, Grandmaster Hwang Kee founded the Moo Duk Kwan, preserving and codifying the art that we practice today.
Tang Soo Do has produced some of the best known martial artists in the world, including Chuck Norris, Billy Blanks, and Darnell Garcia.
Health Benefits of Tang Soo Do
Martial arts training provides a complete mind-body workout with lasting benefits.
Physical Benefits
- Improved fitness and cardiovascular health
- Weight loss and calorie burning
- Muscle toning and increased strength
- Enhanced flexibility and coordination
- Better reflexes and balance
- Stress relief and tension reduction
Mental Benefits
- Self-awareness and discipline
- Improved mental focus and concentration
- Increased self-confidence
- Greater perseverance and determination
- Emotional resilience
- Inner peace and calm
Tang Soo Do at Karate USA
Karate USA was founded by Master Dan Daubenspeck, who studied under masters in Korea before bringing the art to North Carolina. Master Art Johnson, an early student of his, began teaching alongside him about 25 years ago and has carried the school forward since Master Dan's retirement.
Today our senior instructors include Master Art Johnson, 5th Dan; Master Tim Hinton, 4th Dan; and Master David Ray Loftis, 4th Dan — a teaching lineage that keeps the traditional art alive for every new student who steps onto the floor.
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