Yesterday (March 8), we held a diploma awarding ceremony for members who successfully passed the Dan promotion examination in December, presenting the Aikikai diplomas issued by the Doshu. A total of four members received their diplomas on this occasion: one Sandan (3rd Dan), two Nidan (2nd Dan), and one Shodan (1st Dan). KAU follows the goals and vision of the Aikikai Foundation and is committed to promoting and expanding the practice of standard Aikido in accordance with th
The first workshop of 2026 will be held on Saturday, February 7. This workshop focuses on one technical theme and approaches it step by step, from fundamental principles to applied and advanced practice. Participation is open to everyone, regardless of organization or martial arts background. (Non-Aikido practitioners are also welcome. Aikido gi required.) We look forward to training with you. ================================================== [Workshop Theme] - Kaiten-nage (
The KAU Dan Promotion Examination and the Samsungdang 9th Anniversary Joint Training , held on Saturday, December 6 , were successfully completed. This joint training session was led by Dojo Head Instructor Sung Juhwan of Samsungdang , with the theme: “Practicing Correct Movement Patterns / Eye Focus for Establishing a Proper Axis.” Following the morning joint training, the dan promotion examination was conducted. The examination was evaluated simultaneously by three examine
This is the third and final video concluding the "Sword Taking Basics" series by Aikido Samsungdang. In this video, we focus on the "start" and "set-up" of the Kata, rather than the flashy "result" of the technique. I often say, "Good input makes good output." How you handle the first step of the Kata determines the success or failure of the entire technique. Consequently, the precision of the initial phase leading up to the throw makes a much bigger difference in a real situ
Today's video from Aikido Samsungdang (合気道三誠堂(サムソンダン)) focuses on the basics of Sword Taking (Ken-dori / Tachi-dori), which we will cover in a three-part series. In this first installment, we prioritize the absolute minimum requirements for survival—Ma-ai (distancing) and risk management—over the techniques themselves. Based on my professional experience as a police officer, there is a premise I must establish before we begin our training. It is, quite frankly, absurd to thin
