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Hapkido vs Kuk Sool Won: differences explained

Hapkido: mixed: locks, throws, kicks and strikes. Kuk Sool Won: mixed: strikes, locks, throws and weapons. For self-defence, both are similar. Best advice: try one class of each.

HapkidoKuk Sool Won
Origin and founderSouth Korea · Choi Yong-sul, after 1945 (roots in Daito-ryu)South Korea · In Hyuk Suh, from 1958
TypeMixed: locks, throws, kicks and strikesMixed: strikes, locks, throws and weapons
UniformDobok; colour varies by federationBlack dobok; belt shows the rank
Belt / ranking systemColoured belts and danColoured belts and dan
Typical techniquesWrist locks, throws, low and high kicks, weapons (staff, cane)Forms (hyung), locks, falls, kicks, many weapons
Sport / competitionLittle; mostly demonstrationsIn-house association tournaments
Self-defence focusHighHigh
Olympic statusNoNo
Where to train📍 Hapkido clubs📍 Kuk Sool Won clubs

Summary written by Wabukan; rules and grading vary by federation and school.

Sources: Wikipedia — Hapkido · Wikipedia — Kuk Sool Won · olympics.com

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