Grandmaster Kim Jin Pal: The Legendary Force Behind Jin Pal Hapkido Regina

The Legend Begins

Born on April 2, 1941, in U-Pori Il-Gu(Seu-Chung), South Korea, Grandmaster Jin Pal Kim's journey into martial arts was driven by necessity during the Korean civil war. His natural ferocity coupled with rigorous training in various martial arts set the foundation for a legendary career.

Guardianship and Expertise

In 1960, Grandmaster Kim trained under Grandmaster Ji Han Jae, the founder of modern Hapkido, in Seoul. His expertise quickly earned him high-profile roles, including personal bodyguard for South Korean General Park Chong Hee and later, security roles in Vietnam and for U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional techniques with practical application made him a sought-after instructor for military and elite forces.

Global Influence and Cinematic Stardom

By the 1970s, Grandmaster Kim expanded his influence to Hong Kong, where he opened the renowned Flying Tiger Hapkido Studio and starred in major martial arts films. His studio attracted stars like Jackie Chan and elevated Hapkido's profile in Southeast Asia.

Golden Tiger movie poster
Grandmaster Kim Jin Pal performing a split kick
Valley of the Double Dragon movie poster

Western Expansion and Legacy

Relocating to the U.S. in the 1980s, Grandmaster Kim continued to spread Hapkido, instructing law enforcement, military personnel, and even training Olympic athletes. His dedication to the martial art led to the establishment of the World United Martial Arts Federation and numerous Hapkido studios worldwide.

Grandmaster Kim Jin Pal throwing a student

Jin Pal Hapkido Regina: Continuing the Legacy

Today, the Jin Pal Hapkido Regina studio stands as a testament to Grandmaster Kim's enduring legacy. Under his guidance and the leadership of skilled instructors, the Regina studio embodies the principles of strength, discipline, and harmony that Grandmaster Kim championed. Grandmaster Kim has made trips to Regina to provide specialized instructions for the black belt instructors and workshops for the entire studio. Students at Jin Pal Hapkido Regina benefit from a lineage of excellence and dedication, ensuring that the art of Hapkido continues to thrive.

Join Jin Pal Hapkido Regina and become part of a storied tradition of martial arts excellence. Experience the teachings of a true legend and discover your path to power and coordination.

Martial Arts credentials

Grandmaster Kim Jin Pal teaching a class

Total Years of Martial Arts Experience: 70+

  • 1962-65: Personal bodyguard for Korean President, Park Chung Hee
  • 1965: Served with the Korean Army Military Police and Korean C.I.D.
  • 1965-66: Personal Security Officer for the ROK Ambassador to Vietnam
  • 1965-67: Instructed members of the U.S. Marine Personal Security Unit
  • 1966: Bodyguard of American President Lyndon B. Johnson during his visit to Korea
  • 1967: Instructed U.S. Army Green Beret detachments in Vietnam
  • 1968-71: Instructed Bodyguards for Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Cao Ky
  • 1969: Appointed Chairman of Korean/Vietnamese Hapkido Association
  • 1971: Opened Flying Tiger Hapkido Studio in Hong Kong and was appointed chairman of the South- East Asia Hapkido Association
  • 1973-76: Leading star in eight major Martial Arts Movies in Hong Kong
  • 1977: Appointed by Royal Saudi Bahrain family to instruct the Prince of Bahrain as well as Palace Bodyguards
  • 1982-86: Instructed Irvine California S.W.A.T. and El Toro Marines
  • 1990: Founded World United Martial Arts Federation
  • 1990: Received 10th Dan Black Belt
  • 1993: Instructor to U.S. DEA and U.S. Marshals
  • 1993: Instructor to the White House Athletic Center Founder and Chairman of Preventive Action Security Services
Grandmaster Kim Jin Pal performing a high kick