International Martial Arts Center

"Write it on your heart
that every day is the best day in the year.

He is rich who owns the day,
and no one owns the day
who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety.

Finish every day and be done with it.
You have done what you could.

Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt crept in.
Forget them as soon as you can.

Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense.

This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations,
to waste a moment on the yesterdays."

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson - Collected Poems and Translations, 1847

Patience – The Rhythm of Mastery

Grandmaster Hahn’s Notes

In martial arts, patience is not merely the ability to wait.
It is the quiet rhythm through which all true mastery is born.

When my students grow frustrated, trying to perfect a technique that works one day and fails the next, I remind them — this is natural. You cannot rush understanding any more than you can rush the seasons. When you plant a seed, no amount of pleading will make it grow faster. The roots form in darkness before the first green ever touches light.

Hapkido teaches this truth in motion. When you meet an attack, you cannot harden against it. Force against force is only noise. Instead, you must blend, breathe, and become one with it. That union takes time — years of letting the body unlearn fear, of training the hands to feel, not fight. Repetition after repetition, until instinct and awareness move as one circle.

Patience in training is not passive. It is a living practice — the discipline of refinement. Each movement, each breath, is a quiet conversation between body and spirit. The lesson matures in its own time. If you rush it, you will only meet resistance — in the muscles, in the joints, even in the heart.

It is the same law that governs all mastery.
A great hitter in baseball doesn’t rush the pitch; he waits until time itself slows.
Tiger Woods on his putting green before dawn, practicing the same motion thousands of times.
Roger Federer repeating the same swing until his body no longer questions it.

They are all practicing the same thing — patience through rhythm.
Mastery is not a moment of achievement; it is the harmony between persistence and time.

So when I tell my students, “You can’t rush what must ripen,” I mean that real skill, like real wisdom, grows in stillness. It takes the right balance of mind, body, and spirit — aligned with trust.

In the end, patience is not waiting for progress.
It is walking alongside it, step by step, until one day, effort dissolves into ease —
and the art itself begins to move through you.

Reflections on Approaching Autumn

Autumn approaches—gently, almost shyly—pushing away the heavy breath of summer. The humid air gives way to something lighter, cleaner, touched with a cool whisper that brushes against the skin like a quiet promise. The world exhales, and everything feels calmer, clearer.

The leaves begin their slow transformation, turning to shades of fire and sunlight—crimson, gold, amber—each one a fleeting masterpiece. They drift down from the trees, gliding through the wind like gentle snowflakes that forgot their season. As they dance and collide in the crisp air, they seem to murmur, “We will return.”

There’s a sweetness in their fall, a soft melancholy that lingers in the heart. Autumn carries that rare beauty of both farewell and beginning—the tenderness of something ending, yet the quiet faith that life will circle back once more.

And as the days grow shorter and the evenings cool, we find ourselves drawn inward, not with sadness but with gratitude. For every leaf that falls reminds us that change, though sometimes lonely, is also what keeps life alive.

Best regards,

Master Hahn

Walking in the Footsteps of Giants: My Encounter with Grand Master Shin

There are moments in a martial artist’s life when the path suddenly widens, and you realize you’re walking among giants.

Not long ago, I had the privilege of attending an annual meeting of the United States Taekwondo Grand Master Society — a gathering of pioneers who brought Taekwondo to America in the 1950s and 60s and helped shape what our art has become today. It was humbling to stand among men and women who carried Taekwondo across oceans, built dojangs in unfamiliar cities, and quietly laid the foundation for the thriving community we know now.

What struck me most wasn’t their titles or their resumes — though those alone are awe-inspiring — but their spirit. The room was filled with laughter, easy camaraderie, and a warmth that only comes from decades of dedication. These Grand Masters were living proof that true mastery is not rigid or severe; it’s alive, generous, and full of joy. As one of the youngest members there, I felt deeply honored just to be included — grateful for their mentorship and the path they’ve carved for the next generation.

A Personal Connection

This year, one of my own students, Jerome, earned his black belt through this prestigious society. In preparing his application, I reached out to the current president, Grand Master Shin. I had first been given the contact for Grand Master Chae, but soon learned that leadership had passed to Grand Master Shin — so I called him directly.

From our very first conversation, Grand Master Shin was gracious, humble, and kind. He welcomed me warmly, and when I explained that one of my students was applying for black belt certification, he simply said: “Send the application and the required papers to me.” No pretense. No unnecessary formality. Just quiet leadership and generosity.

At first, I had trouble getting the package to him. Twice the delivery missed him; finally I called, apologizing for the inconvenience. Grand Master Shin — a man in his eighties — chuckled and said he would stay home that day to receive it personally. I remember thinking to myself: this gentleman must still be training, still keeping his body and mind sharp. There was something inspiring about that simple act of kindness and reliability.

A few weeks later, the beautifully prepared certificate arrived — perfect in every detail. I emailed him a note of thanks, joking lightly about how grateful I was that everything was spelled correctly, and wishing him well until the next annual meeting.

His reply stopped me in my tracks:

> “Grand Master Hahn,
I am writing this to you from the Himalayas, where I am trekking with several other gentlemen. I must get going now, but you are always welcome anytime.
Sincerely,
Grand Master Shin.”

I smiled, then just sat for a moment, humbled and moved. Here was a man over eighty years old, still adventuring in the Himalayas, still embracing life with vigor and curiosity. Still training, still moving forward.

An Inspiration for the Journey Ahead

Reading that email, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own path. Taekwondo has given me discipline, resilience, and joy — but it has also taught me that the journey doesn’t end at black belt, or master, or even grand master. The journey is life itself. It’s about staying curious, staying strong, and continuing to grow no matter your age.

Grand Master Shin reminded me that mastery is not a finish line — it’s a way of being. At eighty-plus years old, he’s not just maintaining; he’s climbing mountains, literally. He’s living proof that the principles we teach — perseverance, spirit, indomitable will — are not just words for students. They’re a way to live fully.

I hope to follow that example. To keep moving, keep growing, and keep laughing alongside those who came before me. And when I’m eighty, maybe I’ll be somewhere breathtaking — trekking a mountain, teaching a class, still sharing the art that has shaped my life.

To Grand Master Shin: thank you — for your kindness, your example, and your unstoppable spirit. You remind me that this path is wide and beautiful, and that the greatest masters keep going, one step at a time, into new adventures.

Pilsung!
Master Hahn

Walking in the Footsteps of Giants: My Encounter with Grand Master Shin:

There are moments in a martial artist’s life when the path suddenly widens, and you realize you’re walking among giants.

Not long ago, I had the privilege of attending an annual meeting of the United States Taekwondo Grand Master Society — a gathering of pioneers who brought Taekwondo to America in the 1950s and 60s and helped shape what our art has become today. It was humbling to stand among men and women who carried Taekwondo across oceans, built dojangs in unfamiliar cities, and quietly laid the foundation for the thriving community we know now.

What struck me most wasn’t their titles or their resumes — though those alone are awe-inspiring — but their spirit. The room was filled with laughter, easy camaraderie, and a warmth that only comes from decades of dedication. These Grand Masters were living proof that true mastery is not rigid or severe; it’s alive, generous, and full of joy. As one of the youngest members there, I felt deeply honored just to be included — grateful for their mentorship and the path they’ve carved for the next generation.

A Personal Connection

This year, one of my own students, Jerome, earned his black belt through this prestigious society. In preparing his application, I reached out to the current president, Grand Master Shin. I had first been given the contact for Grand Master Chae, but soon learned that leadership had passed to Grand Master Shin — so I called him directly.

From our very first conversation, Grand Master Shin was gracious, humble, and kind. He welcomed me warmly, and when I explained that one of my students was applying for black belt certification, he simply said: “Send the application and the required papers to me.” No pretense. No unnecessary formality. Just quiet leadership and generosity.

At first, I had trouble getting the package to him. Twice the delivery missed him; finally, I called, apologizing for the inconvenience. Grand Master Shin — a man in his eighties — chuckled and said he would stay home that day to receive it personally. I remember thinking to myself: this gentleman must still be training, still keeping his body and mind sharp. There was something inspiring about that simple act of kindness and reliability.

A few weeks later, the beautifully prepared certificate arrived — perfect in every detail. I emailed him a note of thanks, joking lightly about how grateful I was that everything was spelled correctly and wishing him well until the next annual meeting.

His reply stopped me in my tracks:

> “Grand Master Hahn,
I am writing this to you from the Himalayas, where I am trekking with several other gentlemen. I must get going now, but you are always welcome anytime.
Sincerely,
Grand Master Shin.”

I smiled, then just sat for a moment, humbled and moved. Here was a man over eighty years old, still adventuring in the Himalayas, still embracing life with vigor and curiosity. Still training, still moving forward.

An Inspiration for the Journey Ahead

Reading that email, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own path. Taekwondo has given me discipline, resilience, and joy — but it has also taught me that the journey doesn’t end at a black belt, or master, or even a grand master. The journey is life itself. It’s about staying curious, staying strong, and continuing to grow no matter your age.

Grand Master Shin reminded me that mastery is not a finish line — it’s a way of being. At eighty-plus years old, he’s not just maintaining; he’s climbing mountains, literally. He’s living proof that the principles we teach — perseverance, spirit, and indomitable will — are not just words for students. They’re a way to live fully.

I hope to follow that example. To keep moving, keep growing, and keep laughing alongside those who came before me. And when I’m eighty, maybe I’ll be somewhere breathtaking — trekking a mountain, teaching a class, still sharing the art that has shaped my life.

To Grand Master Shin: Thank you — for your kindness, your example, and your unstoppable spirit. You remind me that this path is wide and beautiful and that the greatest masters keep going, one step at a time, into new adventures.

Pilsung!
Master Hahn

Jerome’s Black Belt Victory

🥋 Jerome’s Black Belt Victory: A Story of Perseverance

At the International Martial Arts Center (IMAC) in New York City, we believe a Black Belt is never given—it must be earned. Whether in Karate, Taekwondo, Hapkido, or MMA, the journey to Black Belt is about discipline, perseverance, and personal growth. Few stories capture that spirit as powerfully as Jerome’s.

A couple of years ago, Jerome was preparing for his Taekwondo Black Belt test. He trained hard, showed excellent focus, and seemed ready to take the big step. On a Monday night, he looked sharp and healthy. But the very next day, I received a shocking call:

“Master Hahn, I’m at the hospital. I just had knee surgery.”

I couldn’t believe it. On his way home through Grand Central, Jerome had taken a wrong step. His gait shifted, his leg twisted, and his ACL tore—a devastating injury that required immediate surgery. Overnight, his Black Belt dream was put on hold.

Many students would have given up. But Jerome didn’t. For nearly a year, he committed himself to rehabilitation, rebuilding strength, and relearning every martial arts skill. He returned to class, teaching and training side by side, determined not to let the setback define him. His persistence showed the true spirit of the martial arts: respect, courage, and indomitable will.

When Jerome finally returned to testing last month, he was stronger than ever. His performance proved that he had not only regained his skill, but deepened his understanding of martial arts through hardship.

At International Martial Arts Center, we are proud to say that no Black Belt is ever “given.” Some students take shortcuts elsewhere, but here, every Black Belt is earned. That’s why our students—kids, teens, and adults alike—stand out as some of the best qualified martial artists you will ever see.

This past Thursday night, Jerome’s journey reached its milestone. With a brand-new embroidered Black Belt, a certificate from the United States Taekwondo Grand Master Society, and the support of our IMAC family, we celebrated his achievement together. It was a victory not only for Jerome, but for everyone who believes in the power of martial arts training.

Jerome’s story is proof that a Black Belt in Karate, Taekwondo, Hapkido, or MMA is not the end of training—it is the beginning of a life shaped by perseverance, confidence, and respect.

Pilsung!
Master Hahn

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Martial Arts: Health, Progress, and the Joy of Learning at the International Martial Arts Center

Everybody’s looking for good health. I see it all the time — people join a gym with the best intentions, only to get stuck in the same routine. After a while, it gets boring, motivation fades, and they stop going.

At the International Martial Arts Center, we offer something different.

Whether it’s Taekwondo, Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, or MMA, training with us provides a complete workout for your body and mind. You’ll improve strength, flexibility, and stamina while burning calories for weight loss. You’ll also gain focus, discipline, and confidence through self-defense training — a skill that can truly make a difference in your life.

Every class at the International Martial Arts Center is fresh. No two are exactly the same. One day you might be refining your kicks in Taekwondo, the next you could be practicing throws from Judo or learning ground defense inspired by Jiu-Jitsu. We even incorporate elements of meditation and breathing techniques for peace of mind and stress relief.

The structure of martial arts keeps you engaged. From white belt to yellow belt and beyond, you’re always climbing toward the next level. That progressive learning means you’re not just repeating a workout — you’re developing new skills and unlocking new challenges.

And here’s the secret: progress feels good. That’s the key to fitness consistency. At the International Martial Arts Center, you don’t just “work out” — you grow stronger, sharper, and more confident every time you step on the mat.

Whether your goal is better health, effective self-defense, weight loss, or simply finding a fitness routine you won’t quit, the International Martial Arts Center offers the variety, challenge, and community to keep you motivated. It’s more than exercise. It’s a path to becoming the best version of yourself — one class at a time.

The Only Footprints in the Snow – A Reflection from Master Hahn

During this heat, I found myself longing for the cold. The kind of cold that clears your head and awakens your spirit. That’s when I remembered this moment…

A few winters ago, I stayed at Outlook Lodge on top of Bear Mountain.
It was eight degrees outside. My car was the only one in the lot. Not a single guest in the whole hotel. Just me. Total silence.

The wind outside whispered like a forgotten voice. No crowds. No distractions. Just snow, stone, and sky.

I went hiking alone that morning—bundled up, breathing deep, every step crisp in the snow.
But after just ten minutes, I wasn’t cold. I was warm. Alive. Focused. Even energized.

No music. No phone. Just movement and breath.

Sometimes, the most powerful moments come when no one else is around.
Not because you're lonely—
But because you're fully present.

That day, I remembered something important:

Strength doesn’t always come from others.
Sometimes it comes from the silence.

Best regards,

Master Hahn

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