Product Description
In Hwa Rang Do: Defend, Take Down, Submit, authors Taejoon Lee (the eldest son of Dr. Joo Bang Lee) and Mark Cheng present a variety of easy-to-understand self-defense techniques complete with set-ups and variations for different attack situations. Through detailed photographs and instructions, this well-rounded collection of striking, joint-manipulation, throwing, grappling and submission techniques will help you develop empty-hand defenses for any position from any angle!Also included is a comprehensive technical analysis of hwa rang do submissions and a detailed history of the art, complete with archival photographs and representative artwork. The military, cultural, mythical and philosophical origins of the legendary Hwarang Corps are discussed in unprecedented detail, providing a multi-dimensional history that leads all the way up to hwa rang do’s current leader, Dr. Joo Bang Lee.Hwa Rang Do: Defend, Take Down, Submit is the first official publication produced by the World Hwa Rang Do Association in more than 25 years. Black Belt is proud to present this guide to hwa rang do’s technical and cultural significance for a new generation of historians, instructors and practitioners. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A must read!
As a long-time practitioner of Hwa Rang Do I'd like to say that I still learned quite a lot from all aspects of this very densely packed book (history, philosophy and physical techniques).

The material is very well presented showing logical variations of techniques from different starting points that naturally progress to alternative takedowns and submissions depending upon the opponents reaction -- making it very impressive in terms of both the amount of content and its clarity. As such I'd HIGHLY recommend it to any martial arts practioner and especially to those looking to improve their self-defense arsenal using quick joint lock submissions.

Some Unique locking
I found some of the locking in this book pretty unique. I have yet seen them elsewhere. They do come on extermely tight. Some of the techiques in this system are a bit too show boating for me, but coming from a Korean art would you expect anything else. A definately great addition to locksmiths library, It would have been a little better if they made the book in a larger format so that one could better see the locking sequence. I rate this 4 dislocated elbows

As clear as can be without getting on the mats!
Hwa Rang Do: Defend, Takedown, Submit goes beyond the "regular" martial arts how-to, placing detailed pictorial and outlined instruction in the context of Hwa Rang Do's millenial history from the Korean peninsula through today.Giving the lay reader and the burgeoning martial artist an idea of why in addition to how makes this a must read for casual fans and practitioners of any art.

A great introduction to Hwa Rang Do.
First off I am not a practitioner of Hwa Rang Do; the book was recommended to me by my uncle who has his fifth degree black belt in the system and who is very involved in the organization. My experience has been in Kenpo, Kung Fu and Brazilian Jujitsu. I found this book very interesting; I have experience with the majority of the techniques or concepts in the book in one form or another. I enjoyed Mr. Lee's presentation of these techniques, he explains them in an easy to understand format. Although it is my understanding that this is just the tip of the iceberg of what is said to be a complete and dynamic system.

The chapters detailing the history of the art are very informative, especially to someone that knows nothing about the system. The book also briefly talked about the philosophical aspects of Hwa Rang Do. The book is a good intro to the style for anyone curious or anyone considering studying it (like me); it could also give the experienced practitioner a deeper understanding of the arts evolution, and a handful of its techniques. Over all, this is book is informative and worth the money.

My only complaint is that the pictures are small; this problem would have been easily fixed by expanding the size of the book. Considering this is my only complaint, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the art, or just expanding your martial arts knowledge.

Traditional Hapkido Style Takedowns & Joint Locks!
Despite what this title might initially suggest in the present age of Mixed Martial Arts and Submission fighting, the subject matter is actually the traditional-style defense and take down methods present in Hwarang-Do and related arts such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool.Like most schools of Hapkido-based arts, Hwarang-do is not a close-in grappling style like say, judo or competitive jiu jitsu.

Sequence photographs show attacks from kicks and punches to grabs which are parried or countered with joint locks, and sumbission by throw with a continued hold on the limb of the adversary, or otherwise using leverage to bring the antagonizer to the ground where he can be held and immobilized.

This volume is well-executed, I liked the presentation format. Not a bad book, easy enough to comprehend, but much of the material has already been covered in other works, including Henry Taejoon Lee's father GM. Joo Bang Lee's series of three books, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do" (all of which I recommend).Martial artists without experience in hapkido-type arts (or other lock/throw styles) should also note that many of the techniques shown here which look spectacular in demonstrations are quite difficult to apply in practical situations without a cooperative "assailant".Still, not a bad book.I recommend this mainly for practitioners of Hwarang-Do (of course), Hapkido, and Kuk Sool.

If you enjoy Korean martial arts such as Hwarang-Do or another Hapkido related style, you may also enjoy Choe's affordable Hapkido books, Kimm's "Hapkido" & "Hapkido II", Myung's "Korean Hapkido" and any of the big "Kuk Sool" textbooks.I hope someday Joo Bang Lee will be able to produce a master volume on his art of Hwarang-Do--the art certainly rates it! ... Read more

Product Description
This book is the second in a series devoted to themartial art Hwa Rang Do. This book contains detailed information aboutHwa Rang Do Joint Manipulation from multiple situations. This book isa must for your Hwa Rang Do collection, and contains detailed photosof these joint manipulation techniques. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

One of the first books I ever owned on the martial arts!
Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume Two."

This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.

7. Joint Breaking Techniques:

a. In this section, the author gives 5 detailed examples of joint breaks that target the fingers, wrist, and elbow.

8. Self-Defense Against Grabs:

a. This section if without a doubt one of the best sections in the entire series with detailed examples of over 30 different defenses against various types of grabs ranging from simple wrist grabs and clothing grabs to head locks.

b. Almost all of the defensive moves in this section end up with some sort of joint dislocation or break. Although each of these can be modified to result in a less serious result. These techniques are easy to follow, and if you have a little previous knowledge in joint manipulation, very easy to execute.

9. Self-Defense from Disadvantaged Positions:

a. This section I found to be rather unique as you rarely ever see this particular issue addressed when talking about self-defense and that is defending yourself in any position other than the typical standing position.

b. Demonstrated in this section are 7 defenses that can be used if attacked when lying down.

c. 7 defenses are also shown from a seated position.

d. Now this small section was particularly interesting in the fact that it showed 4 examples for defending yourself while only having the use of one arm. This might come in handy if one of your arms was injured or inoperative for some reason.

10. Self-Defense Against Punches and Kicks:

a. This section although a little brief, demonstrates several different techniques for defending yourself against a variety of punches and kicks. I particularly liked the detailed photographs that are prevalent throughout the entire series of books, not just this section.

One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.

This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

Practical Self Protection from Korea
Originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since re-released by JL Publications, this is the second in a three volume series by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee.Volume Two covers joint locks, self-defense against grabs (including locking and throwing), defense from disadvataged positions (sitting, etc), and defense against kicks and punches which include a variety of detailed sewwping, throwing, locking and striking techniques put into practice.Each photographic sequence is well-detailed and clear.As with the first volume in the series, the majority techniques are clearly demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself.Volume One of this series covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking.Volume Three covers throwing, defense against weapons, striking vital points, a few cane and baton techniques, choking, opponent control, and defense against more than one opponent.

Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" Korean martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it.Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner.Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.

Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the repetitive inclusion of the sections on history and theory in each of the three volumes.Certainly a more specific and inclusive history of Master Lee's own experiences, along with photos from his extensive historic collection could only benefit this series.The format of these books as well (not the actual layout) would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format.Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last.Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public.For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is the first in a series regarding the martialart of Hwa Rang Do.This book is the foundation of this series, andincludes concepts, theories, and historical information.This bookalso conatins Hwa Rang Do stances, striking techniques, kickingtechniques, and applications.This book contains detailed photos ofthese techniques and applications. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

An excellent introduction to the Korean are of Hwarang Do.
This is one in a series of books written by the grandmaster of Hwarang Do, Joo Bang Lee.Hwarang Do means "Way of the flowering youth."This volume covers the techniques and philosophy of this Korean martial art.This art employes blocks, punches, strikes, kicks, holds, locks, throws and defense as well as how to use several weapons.In conclusion, this book is an excellent introduction to this Korean martial art.Rating: 5 Stars.Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art Myths, Never Trust a Politician, Season of the Warrior, Tanto Jutsu, Samurai Aerobics, Wakizashi Jutsu, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

One of the first books I ever owned on the martial arts!
Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume One." This volume along with its two companion volumes are the first books that I am aware of that were written on this Korean martial art.

This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.

1. Way of Controlling the Mind and Body:

a. This section includes a very detailed description on training methods you can use in order to learn how to breathe properly and to harness that breath into the body's epi-center or Dan Jun in order to develop your ki or internal energy. This is also known as chi in Chinese.

b. There is also a section included here that details various techniques and training methods you can use to enhance your mental concentration and development of your ki to enhance your physical and mental well being.

2. Basic Stances:

a. This section goes over the basic principles behind each stance or posture that is demonstrated. You are then shown 14 different stances that are used in this art form.

3. Falling Techniques:

a. In this section you are given the six basic principles that should be used during the execution of any type of roll or fall. You are then shown 3 falls, 2 rolls, and 3 flips that are used in this art form.

4. Fists:

a. This section is rather brief to my liking, and focuses mainly on the various hand positions and types of strikes that are used in this art form. They range from classical punches to various open handed striking techniques including elbow strikes. There is a brief description provided on how to form your hand for each technique and also the preferred vital points that you should target with each particular strike.

5. Kicking Techniques:

a. This section although brief, is really well done. It starts off by explaining to you the basic principles involved in kicking correctly and how to breath correctly when kicking. It also gives a brief explanation into the different types of kicks. Very sound and solid information.

b. This is followed by a fairly good description of over 20 different kicks and their possible applications as well as the vital points that you would want to try and target when kicking. A rather brief example is then given of using multiple kicks on one or more opponents at one time.

c. This section finishes off with another brief section on specialty kicks, which focus on four different jumping and flying kicks.

6. Defensive Techniques:

a. This final section goes over the hard and soft blocks and parries that are incorporated in this art form. Demonstrations are given against an attack by both the hands and feet.

One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.

This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

An Important Contribution to Korean Martial Arts
Originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since reprinted privately by JL Publications (and thus somewhat harder to obtain), this is the first in a three volume series by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee.This first volume of three covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking.Included is a complete catalog of techniques from basic to advanced.The sequences of photographs are particularely good, with four to nine clear photos per technique.Volume Two covers joint locks, throws, sweeps and counters, defense from disadvataged positions (sitting, etc).Volume Three covers throwing, defense against weapons, striking vital points, a few cane and baton techniques, choking, opponent control, and defense against more than one opponent.

Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it.Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner.Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.A special attraction of this series of books is that most of the techniques are demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself, and not younger students, the rare exception being a series of spectacular flying/jumping kicks shown by his eldest son, Henry Lee.

Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the format of the book itself (not the actual layout).I believe Lee's work would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format, and certainly a reworking of the section on history could include a number of the photos from his collection and personal recollections of the "early years" which impacted so much on Korea's modern martial arts.Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last.Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public.For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection.

Great introduction to hwarang do from a great master
This book was excellent, dojang nim joobang lee left out nothing that the beginning student wants to know. It was written in such a way that I felt like I am actually there with dojang nim joobang lee training.It has been a dream of mine to train in hwarang do since I was 8, and now at 23 I'm getting my chance.Of course no book should ideally substitute a actual human being in front of you instructing, but this is all I have because I live in cleveland, oh and there is not a single hwarang do school here.Lee joobang dojang nim, I give you a full salute and thank you for the knowledge you have shared with me and all the future hwarang warriors with this book.

Exellent pictures and description of this incredible art
An excellent introduction to Hwa Rang Do, probably the most comprehensive martial art system in the world.The pictures and descriptions are clear and easy to follow. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is the last of the original Hwa Rang Doseries. Along with details about Hwa Rang Do weapon training anddefenses, this book introduces the many aspects of Hwa Rang Do'shealing techniques. Just like the rest of the series this bookcontains detailed photographs to help you understand its content. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great book, one of the first I ever owned!
Being the author of several books on the martial arts and fighting, I am always looking for books of exceptional quality to add to my library. If I have a book in my library, it's definitely worth owning. One such book is Joo Bang Lee's, "The Ancient Martial Art of Hwarang Do; Volume Three."

This volume, like the other two in the series, starts out with an outstanding section that gives you a detailed look at the history of Hwarang Do and its progression over the centuries from ancient times to the present day. You are then presented with the theory and internal dynamics which make up this very impressive art. The basic principles of training sections were also very good and offered excellent advice that should be implemented during training. The following is a brief overview of each chapter in the book and what it contains.

11. Weapons:

a. This section begins with a brief discussion on the history of weapons concerning the art of Hwarang Do and then goes into the 20 basic weapon types that are studied in this art form. The author notes that once you have mastered the 20 basic weapon types, you can then eventually master the 108 weapons studied and used in Hwarang Do.

b. This section continues with the basic blocks, strikes and applications of the short stick. This is usually an oak stick approximately 6 to 8 inches in length with a cord attached to one end.

c. The next section comprises various defenses against the sword, stick, and cane. This is followed with 10 self-defense techniques that can be used against an attacker armed with a knife. This section concludes with a brief segment that demonstrates to you four different defenses you could use against an attacker armed with a handgun. This particular segment is one I didn't care for because it was too brief and did not include any of the basic information that you should know before even considering such a move.

12. Throwing Techniques:

a. This section starts off with some basic principles involved in throwing and the recommendation that you should learn how to fall and roll first, before learning how to throw. Sound advice!

b. This next section demonstrates and briefly explains how to execute 6 basic throws in Hwarang Do. It then does something really unique and not found in very many books, which is how to defend against someone who is trying to throw you.

13. Choking Techniques:

a. After a brief segment on the basic principles of choking, the author demonstrates 5 basic choking techniques.

14. Opponent Control:

a. Following a brief segment on the basic principles behind controlling an opponent, this section gives you 7 examples of controlling or restraining an attacker.

b. In this section, the author also demonstrates for you 7 different examples of defenses that could be used against two attackers. Following this he also demonstrates 1 example of defending yourself against three attackers at one time. These examples are intended to be just that, examples. They are not intended to be duplicated move for move.

15. Vital Points:

a. Although this section of the book was rather brief, the basic principles and the philosophy that the author relates to the reader is, in my opinion, not only very professional, but also the mark of a true master of the martial arts.

b. The author continues with this section by demonstrating some basic techniques applied to certain vulnerable areas of the body.

16. Charts of the Meridians of the Body:

a. This section shows detailed charts mapping out the meridians of the body that correspond to the major internal organs.

One of the things that I particularly liked about this book, and the others in the series, is the fact that there are no "sport" techniques in these books. All of the techniques shown are meant to be used in actual combat and self-defense situations. When you look at the art of Hwarang Do, you could make the comparison that this art form includes not only the strikes and kicks of Tae Kwon Do, but also the throwing and grappling techniques of Judo and the joint techniques of Aikido. Hwarang Do is truly a well-rounded and complete martial art.

This and its two companion volumes were some of the first books that I ever purchased years ago when I was in high school and starting to learn about the martial arts. These books give a very good overview on the art of Hwarang Do and are very informative. If you are interested in this art form, or any of the Korean arts, I would definitely put these books on your too buy list.

A Tribute to Korean Martial Arts
This is the third volume of a series on Hwarang Do by Master Teacher Joo-Bang Lee originally published in 1978 by Ohara and since re-released by JL Publications.This third book is a fitting capstone to this series, offering a complete overview of a worthy and useful martial discipline.Volume Three includes a brief overview of the weapons of Hwarang Do, Defense against knife, sword, gun, defense with cane and short stick, Throwing techniques, choking techniques, opponent control, and a section on vital point including charts and photos.Throughout, a variety of detailed photographs illustrate sweeping, throwing, locking and striking techniques are demonstrated by Master Joo-Bang Lee himself.Volume One of this series covers history, Theory, Stances, Falling, Striking/punching, Kicking, and blocking.Volume Two deals with Joint locking, defense against grabs, defense against punches and kicks, and defense from disadvantageous positions.

Although there is some debate as to the historicity of Hwarang-Do as an "ancient" Korean martial art separate from Hapkido and Taekwondo --Lee claims Hwarang Do has a completely separate native Korean origin despite its remarkable similarity to other forms of Korean martial art such as Hapkido and Kuk Sool-- this debate does nothing to detract from the technical expertise evident in the presentation of this book and the two which follow it.Author Lee Joo-Bang was at one time a direct (and senior) student of Hapkido founder Choi Yong-sul, and part of an original core group of dedicated martial arts men in Korea who traded techniques with one another in a progressive and friendly manner.Eventually due to competition these bonds of brotherhood dissolved, and today there is a lot of mystery and quarreling over what happened in those early days to cause so much dissention.

Among the few faults I can find with this series of books is the repetitive inclusion of the same sections on history and theory in each of the three volumes.Certainly a more specific and inclusive history of Master Lee's own experiences, along with photos from his extensive historic collection could only benefit this series!The format of these books as well (not the actual layout) would benefit greatly by being reintroduced in a larger format.Hwarang-Do is certainly worthy of a nice large, hardcover volume built to last.Then again, these paperback editions offer affordability and easy access to the general public.For that reason and for the quality and scope of technique presented, Lee's three volume collection is absolutely worthwhile including in any martial arts collection.I hope Joo-Bang Lee himself will present further works on Hwarang Do in the future.

not for the beginning student
With multiple black and white photographs on every single page, this book focuses on illustrating classical self-defense techniques against sword, stick, cane, knife, and guns.There is also a basic section on throws, chokes, and opponent control moves.

All moves are illustrated by a series of photographs but the accompanying text descriptions are a bit too limited.The pictures are usually sufficient for an experienced martial artist to figure out what's going on, but this is not a book from which a novice can expect to learn these techniques.

Many of the techniques are impractical, such as using a dan bong (ten inch stick) to defend against a katana sword, or gun defenses that end with the weapon pointed at your own head.I would only recommend this book to an experienced person looking to learn variations of basic weapon disarmament techniques, though the "opponent control" section contains some fairly novel (to me anyway) methods of immobilizing an opponent through wrist or shoulder locks without causing injury or ending with a finishing strike.

There is a pressure points section, which is too abbreviated to be of much use.It's basically just the numbered point charts, without much explanation. ... Read more

Product Description
Directed toward brown belt, this volume explains the forms required to be promoted to black belt. A special page on Korean counting is included. Rhee is the "Father of American Taekwondo." Fully illustrated. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Mandatory Traditional TKD forms
I have come to depend on Jhoon Rhee's forms books as I have moved from form to form.The books are compact making them easy to use and to carry in a gear bag. There are multiple angles on many positions so that you can see exactly what is needed.The only negative thing I can say is that this is the last of the books.I wish he had done all the forms.Each book only has one or two forms therefore making it more to the point.These will always be part of my TKD library.

Excelent Continuation of the Series
Another excelent selection from Jhon Rhee's series of forms.The moves are all excelently shown, depicted from many angles.Steping diagrams help students learn how to transition between moves.It is present at all theclasses I teach for reference. ... Read more