The World Tang Soo Do Association was Founded by Grandmaster Jae Chul Shin and he is one of the leading figures in martial arts today.
He was born in Korea in 1936, and began his long and distinguished career in martial arts at the age of twelve. During his childhood, an unknown monk initially inspired in him a strong desire to learn martial arts. Later, he joined Seoul Moo Duk Kwan Central Gym and began serious study under Grandmaster Hwang Kee, a founder of the Moo Duk Kwan system.
By the time he was 1st Dan, he had already started his teaching career as an assistant instructor at the Central Gym. after that he taught at Korea University, Seoul Central YMCA, various colleges and many police and military institutions.
His many years of teaching experience and his extreme dedication have added to his scientific and unique methods of teaching Tang Soo Do. His six fields of expertise include self-defence, forms, breaking, weapons, health care and meditation. he has evolved these separate arts into one of the finest and most efficient martial arts: The WORLD TANG SOO DO ASSOCIATION.
When he was recruited into the Korean Air force in 1958, he had his first experience of teaching American soldiers. After receiving his Master's degree in Political Science at Korea University, he travelled to the United States of America in order to extend his teaching of foreign students in 1968.
The year he arrived in the USA, "Black Belt Magazine" honoured him for all time by devoting a full chapter to him in the book "20th Century Warriors", putting him in the company of the most legendary martial arts figures ever. Grandmaster Shin, one of the most respected and well known Masters of the 20th century, is one of the few masters who has devoted his entire life to the traditional martial arts.
In addition to insisting on disciplined, rigorous training and exacting techniques, he has always preached that the true value of martial arts training is in the application to everyday life.
Teaching children is one of his favourite pastimes and he hasbecome an expert in child development. His advice to black Belt instructors is good advice for teachers of all kinds, "when examining your abilities as an instructor, examine your young students manners, attitudes, school reports and health conditions. Their improvements should mirror your own.
He has raised 3 mottoes for his leadership of nearly 8000 Black Belt members: Traditionalism, Professionalism and Brotherhood, and he brings these qualities with him wherever he travels and teaches. Grandmaster Shin is respected as a true leader, teacher and Master of Masters.
