About Kuk Sool Won™

Master Seyd Saidi demonstrating technique during training session

Kuk Sool is a comprehensive martial arts system that is derived from the rich and varied martial art techniques and traditions that have arisen in Korea through the ages. Kuk Sool is not a sport, nor is it simply another method of self-defense.

Kuk Sool is a complete martial art that is dedicated to the cultivation of mental strength and well-being. It also focuses on the preservation of traditional Korean Martial arts.

The basis of Kuk Sool is the development of "Ki"(Internal Power). Therefore Kuk Sool is considered an internal martial arts system. However, it is difficult to classify Kuk Sool under any one name due to its vastness.

For self-defense, Kuk Sool is unsurpassed.

Philosophically Kuk Sool stresses humility, self-discipline, loyalty and respect for others. Together, these four aspects of Kuk Sool provide the means for attaining a long and healthier life.

Kuk Sool Won™ covers the entire spectrum of the traditional Asian fighting arts and techniques of body conditioning as well as mental development and traditional weapon training.

Kuk Sool Won™ Curriculum

A Systematic Study Covering the Spectrum of Traditional Asian Fighting Arts

Kuk Sool Won, which can be translated as Korean National Martial Arts Association, is a systematic study of all the traditional fighting arts which together comprise the martial arts history of the Korean nation. As such, Kuk Sool Won is an extremely well-organized system which seeks to integrate and explore all aspects of the traditional Korean martial arts. As a martial arts system, Kuk Sool Won covers the entire spectrum of the traditional Asian fighting arts and techniques of body conditioning, as well as mental development and traditional weapons training. These include (but are not limited to):

Hand Striking

Closed and open-hand striking methods (palm, fist, wrist, finger and specialized hand training); pressure point striking; striking using arm and shoulder; blocking and parrying.

Leg Techniques

Foundational, spinning, jumping, combination, double leg, pressure point and specialty kicks.

Throwing and Grappling

Body, projection and leg throws; pressure point grappling; grappling defense; wrestling techniques; ground fighting.

Joint-locking Techniques

Restraining methods; joint breaking techniques; combination joint locking; control and redirection techniques; arresting and come-along techniques.

Falling Techniques and Acrobatics

Body conditioning and agility techniques; body protection techniques; acrobatics for defense and offense.

Body Conditioning

Overall stretching and flexibility training; cardiovascular conditioning; muscle training; ligament and tendon strengthening; joint flexibility and conditioning.

Animal-style Techniques

Techniques based on the movements and/or characteristics of certain martial animals such as Tiger, Praying Mantis, Crane, Dragon, Snake, etc.

Traditional Korean Weapons

Sword (short, middle and long, single or double, straight or inverted); staff (short, middle and long, single or double); Jool bong; spear; cane; rope; fan.

Note: There are 24 different traditional Korean Royal Court weapons in the curriculum of Kuk Sool Won, plus Buddhist and family weaponry.

Martial Art Healing Methods (beginning at Instructor level)

Acupressure; acupuncture; internal energy systems; herbal medicine.

Meditation and Breathing Techniques

Various breath control techniques; meditation and breathing postures; concentration techniques.

Kuk Sool Won Goes Beyond the Physical

Kuk Sool Won™ covers an extensive array of techniques and martial arts methods, but it is not merely concerned with the physical methods of attack and defense. Kuk Sool Won™ includes the study of healing techniques, the development of internal power, and physical conditioning. Training in Kuk Sool Won™ also helps to instil self-confidence and self-discipline, a calm self-assurance, and the psychological and spiritual values which are traditionally associated with the martial character. Mental and physical well-being is of primary importance in Kuk Sool Won™.

Although Kuk Sool Won as it is practiced today is relatively new, its roots stretch far and deep to the very beginnings of the history of the Korean people. As students of Kuk Sool Won™, this early history and the ancient traditions upon which our art is founded should be as important to us as the physical techniques themselves, for it is only from our understanding and appreciation of these classical roots that we are able to grow as students and as martial artists.

Master Saidi

Master Seyd Saidi performing a kick, Owner and Chief Instructor of Kuk Sool Won of Dublin

A Lifetime of Martial Arts Experience

Master Saidi has brought a lifetime of experience to Kuk Sool Won™ of Dublin. His martial arts career began at a very early age in Afghanistan. Master Saidi trained in many different martial arts up to the Black Belt level. His travels brought him to India where he travelled extensively performing martial arts demonstrations.

Master Saidi came to the United States and met the Grandmaster of Kuk Sool Won™, In Hyuk Suh, and has continued to practice Korean martial arts to this day and now holds the rank of 8th Dahn.

Master Saidi is known for his powerful hand strikes, sword techniques, fan, pressure point manipulation, joint locks, acupressure, grappling, long staff and Korean cane techniques.

His main purpose in opening the Martial Arts Academy of USA is to teach and provide a safe and friendly environment for his students as well as his community. Master Saidi is confident that the services he and his staff provide are of the highest quality. With Master Saidi’s guidance and teaching methods, our martial arts academy has been awarded numerous state championship flags — an honor given to any school winning the state tournament for three consecutive years.

Training is something Master Saidi firmly believes in.

A Legacy of Teaching and Inspiration

Beyond his personal achievements, Master Saidi’s true passion lies in teaching and mentoring. For over four decades, he has shaped the lives of thousands of students, guiding them not only in martial arts techniques but in discipline, perseverance, and respect — core values that extend far beyond the training mat.

Our Instructors

Dedicated and Highly Skilled Leaders

The dedicated and highly skilled instructors at Kuk Sool Won of Dublin are committed to allowing each student to reach their full potential. The Instructors have been specially selected and trained and their roles also include teaching students the philosophy and etiquette of Kuk Sool while ensuring their safety. Respect, self-discipline, self-confidence and a positive mental attitude are encouraged and the Instructors lead by example.

Master Seyd Saidi, Chief Instructor of Kuk Sool Won of Dublin

1. Suhn Im Kwan Jhang Nim (Chief Instructor & Owner): Seyd Saidi

Rank: 8th Dahn Master

Master Saidi currently holds the rank of 8th Dahn Master. Please refer to the Master Saidi section for his full profile.

Kuk Sool Won emblem — photo of William Hunt coming soon
📷  Image Coming Soon

2. Pyong Kwan Jhang Nim (Senior Instructor): William Hunt

Rank: 5th degree black belt

Pyong Kwan Jhang Nim Hunt was drawn to the hard/soft style of Kuk Sool through a book called “The Fighting Weapons of Korean Martial Arts”. He has a long standing relationship with Kuk Sool Won of Dublin and feels that there is always more to learn. He has two sons who also attend the school.

Pu Sa Beom Nim Rick Wolin, Third Degree Black Belt Instructor

3. Pu Sa Beom Nim (Instructor): Rick Wolin

Rank: Third degree Black Belt

Pu Sa Beom Nim enjoys Kuk Sool because he finds it interesting and challenging and it keeps him in shape. He finds Master Saidi to be an inspirational, patient and passionate instructor who serves as an excellent role model to all his students. Perfecting the various forms and techniques in Kuk Sool is a demanding process that takes a lifetime to do.

Kyu Sa Nim Zamzam Saidi, Second Degree Black Belt Instructor

4. Kyu Sa Nim (Instructor): Zamzam Saidi

Rank: Second degree Black Belt

Kyu Sa Nim Saidi started her martial arts training at the age of 3. Her motivation to teach comes from the experience she has gained as a practitioner of Kuk Sool Won. She firmly believes that no matter who you are, what background you come from, or what your age — Kuk Sool Won will change your life.

Kuk Sool Won emblem — photo of Seyd Rahim Saidi coming soon
📷  Image Coming Soon

5. Kyu Sa Nim (Instructor): Seyd Rahim Saidi

Rank: Second degree Black Belt

Kyu Sa Nim Saidi believes in consistent training and is dedicated to bringing out the best in the students that he engages with. He enjoys the variety of skills he learns in martial arts and has a particular interest in sparring and learning numerous drills to enhance self-defense approaches. He views the focus and discipline obtained through martial arts practice as a valuable life skill and appreciates building lifelong friendships in a family oriented environment.

Kyu Sa Nim Hamza Saidi, Second Degree Black Belt Instructor

6. Kyu Sa Nim (Instructor): Hamza Saidi

Rank: Second degree Black Belt

Practicing Martial Arts has shaped my life in ways I sometimes notice and sometimes only realize later, because through training I’m constantly improving important parts of who I am. What makes it so unique is how it truly welcomes everyone and supports every goal, while its incredibly well-structured system blends striking, grappling, joint locks, and pressure points into something genuinely awesome and inspiring. Under Master Saidi’s guidance, discipline is taught with patience and kindness, helping students of any age grow in humility, sharper thinking, strong manners, and confidence. Psychologically and physically, this practice has helped define and build me into a stronger person, making me more outgoing and teaching me how to fight off mental negativity with resilience. I want to share my journey because each step forward is more exciting alongside others, and I hope to give back by helping teach and support fellow students so they can build the same confidence, strength, and positive mindset that this amazing art continues to give me.

Class Schedule

Classes at Kuk Sool Won™ of Dublin benefit men, women and children as young as 4 years old. We offer a variety of classes scheduled for your convenience. No matter your age, strength, or flexibility level, we have a class for you! Please choose 2 or 3 classes to attend per week within your belt level.
Location: 4558 Dublin Blvd., Dublin, CA 94568

Class Etiquette, Rules and Preparation

  • Arrive 10–15 minutes prior to scheduled class
  • Change into your uniform immediately
  • Keep uniforms neat, clean and odor free
  • Quietly prepare for class (do not disturb the class in session)
  • Respect should be shown to instructor as well as other students
  • Develop and maintain a positive and disciplined attitude
  • Students and guests should always be well-mannered
  • Attend class on a regular basis
  • Proper effort and spirit should be shown
  • Practice and exercise at home will give better results

Student Creed

  1. I develop myself in a positive manner.
  2. I relate at all times with integrity and self-control.
  3. I will avoid anything that hinders my mental growth and physical health.
  4. I will use anything I learn in class constructively and defensively.

Weekly Class Schedule

Weekly class schedule for Kuk Sool Won of Dublin
Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Sparring
Saturday
Sparring
9:00 AMChildren Class
10:00 AMLittle Dragons
10:30–11:00
Open / All Ranks
11:00 AMOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksLittle Dragons
11:00–11:30
12:00 PMPrivate ClassPrivate Class
3:30 PMChildrenChildrenChildrenChildrenPrivate Class
4:15 PMChildrenChildrenChildrenChildrenPrivate Class
5:00 PMOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksPrivate Class
6:00 PMOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksPrivate Class
7:00 PMOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksOpen / All RanksPrivate Class
8:00 PMPrivate ClassPrivate ClassPrivate ClassPrivate Class
9:00 PMPrivate ClassPrivate ClassPrivate ClassPrivate Class

Holidays

Kuk Sool Won™ of Dublin School remains open for most of the year and is only closed on federal holidays and selected dates communicated at the start of each year.

Events

Testing and Promotion

Testing and promotion generally takes place four times per year. A student will be eligible to grade once they have completed the required number of training classes and acquired a suitable level of skill.

Testing and promotion is subject to the discretion of the Chief Instructor, who will advise for or against a grading if the individual is not ready. A grading must not be rushed — and equally it must be taken to show progress and to give the student a sense of achievement.

Please refer to our Classes for current Testing and Promotion Dates.

Ongoing Events

We offer various ongoing specialized programs and celebratory events for our students and community:

🐉 Little Dragons Children's Program ›
Learn more about our specialized martial arts training program designed specifically for younger children.

🎂 Birthday Parties ›
Celebrate your special day with a fun, high-energy martial arts party at our academy!

💼 Corporate Team Building ›
Improve focus, confidence, and team trust through our tailored corporate team-building events.

Testimonials

Kuk Sool Won™ of Dublin is a warm, friendly, fun and family orientated environment — but don’t just take our word for it. Read what our community has to say!

Sparring is Fun

“My son has been enjoying Kuk Sool Won for about 2 years now. He loves Kuk Sool Won because sparring is fun. He joined this year’s tournament and won 3 medals. His teacher Master Saidi is a good teacher because he helps them get better and better. Practice schedule is flexible — kids can go anytime. Tuition fee is reasonable. Kids here seem disciplined and are having fun.”

— Ed D.
A Comprehensive Martial Art

“My son goes to this dojo and its been about a year now and master Saidi has taught him truly what it means to be respectful and responsible. My son used to have some behavioral issues but ever since hes been coming to this dojo, hes learned how to regulate himself and exert his energy in self defense. Truly a wonderful environment.”

— M S.
Inclusive, Supportive, Nurturing and Fun

“We are thrilled with the Kuk Sool Won team in Dublin! Our two children joined earlier this year and have been thoroughly enjoying the martial arts lessons in a very inclusive and supportive environment. They encourage discipline and respect in addition to nurturing self-confidence. Master Saidi and his team were so flexible, friendly and helpful.”

— Vanessa T.
Incredible Experience

“Kuk Sool Won of Dublin has been an incredible experience for my kids! They absolutely love coming to class each week, and I’ve seen their confidence, focus, and discipline grow so much since they started. The environment is welcoming, respectful, and full of positive energy…”

— Constantine Z.
Exceptional Instructor

“I’ve trained with the owner, Master Saidi, for nearly 8 years and he’s been an exceptional instructor. He’s incredibly patient with kids and one of the most respectful teachers my family has met and teaches patience and respect to all his students by example. Classes with him have not only boosted my confidence but have also taught me practical self defense techniques…”

— Michelle V.
Treated Like Family

“i started here when I was between 5-7 years old (19 years & counting) and I can say the team here is absolutely amazing. The owner is one of the most kind hearted person you’ll ever meet! You are treated like family here. He teaches with a passion…”

— A.

Contact Us

You may call or visit us anytime — we’d love to hear from you!

Owner: Seyd M. Saidi
Address: 4558 Dublin Blvd.
               Dublin, CA 94568