What Is Tang Soo Do?

Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art founded in the 1940s by Grandmaster Hwang Kee. Influenced by Chinese martial arts, Shotokan Karate, and ancient Korean systems such as Soo Bahk Do, Tang Soo Do was created to be a complete and balanced method of personal development. While karate practitioners will recognize familiar stances, blocks, and strikes, Tang Soo Do emphasizes fluidity, dynamic kicking, circular motion, and whole‑body harmony.

It blends the precision of karate with the flowing energy of Kung Fu and the deep historical roots of Korean combat traditions, developing strength, flexibility, discipline, confidence, and inner control.

What Tang Soo Do Means to ICMAF

For the International Canadian Martial Arts Federation (ICMAF), Tang Soo Do represents a commitment to authentic martial heritage and a culture of respect, humility, and lifelong learning. Though it shares a technical foundation with karate, its philosophy emphasizes the connection of mind, body, and spirit, offering students a broader, more holistic martial arts experience.

To ICMAF, Tang Soo Do is not simply a self‑defence system—it is a journey of continuous growth, helping students become stronger, more confident, and more centred.

Official Recognition by the WTSDU & Master Nic Houghton (UK)

ICMAF is fully affiliated with the World Tang Soo Do Union (WTSDU) and is the sole WTSDU representative in Canada, ensuring that students receive authentic, internationally recognized training.

The ICMAF is under the supervision of Master Houghton, the president of WTSDU, and a certified instructor recognized internationally for excellence in traditional Tang Soo Do. His teaching provides a clear path for Martial Arts students who wish to expand their skills through traditional TSD. The ICMAF gradings and seminars are certified by Master Houghton.