🥋 Gongkwon Yusul Video Evaluation
The 4 Core Pillars for Passing
Since releasing our online degree courses, numerous students worldwide have submitted their videos for official Dan (Black Belt) certification. To ensure the high prestige and standard of a Gongkwon Yusul degree, we strictly evaluate every candidate based on specific martial standards.
To help future challengers prepare effectively, we have outlined the four core pillars required to pass the video evaluation. In Gongkwon Yusul, Kihap (Yell), Etiquette, Attitude, and Precision form the absolute baseline of our evaluation; technical accuracy is assessed only after these core pillars are firmly established.
1. The First Pillar: "Kihap" (Pre-Technique Spirit)
The foundational requirement for a passing grade is the correct execution of Kihap (기합).
In Gongkwon Yusul, you must deliver a powerful Kihap right before initiating any technique.
Kihap is the ultimate expression of your internal energy and focus, signaling the awakening of your martial spirit.
Performing techniques in complete silence or shouting late will result in heavy deductions.
A technique executed without a well-timed Kihap at the start lacks readiness, spirit, and realism.
2. The Second Pillar: "Ye-Ui & Tae-Do" (The "Hoshin" Bow and Martial Mindset)
We strictly evaluate your Ye-Ui (예절 - Etiquette) and Tae-Do (태도 - Attitude) from the very first second your video starts until the camera turns off.
Before beginning the test, you and your training partner must face each other, bow, and clearly say "Hoshin" (호신).
This traditional greeting is mandatory to demonstrate respect.
Your dress code (a clean, properly tied Dobok), your posture during transitions, and the mutual respect shown to your partner are heavily scrutinized.
Neglecting the "Hoshin" bow means failing to meet our core etiquette standards.
3. The Third Pillar: "Jeoldo" (Precision and Crispness of Movement)
Jeoldo (절도 - Precision) is what separates a true Gongkwon Yusul practitioner from a casual martial artist.
Every block, punch, kick, and joint lock must have a clear, intentional beginning and a definitive, sharp ending.
You must avoid letting your movements "bleed" into one another or showing loose, sloppy transitions.
Your frames must be rigid when blocking, your stances must be firmly rooted, and your strikes must snap with absolute control.
Without Jeoldo, your movements lack combat applicability.
4. The Fourth Pillar: Designated Technical Execution (Stay on Track with the Curriculum)
Once your baseline martial habits meet our standards, we score your technical execution based on the course material.
The key here is to focus entirely on the official Gongkwon Yusul techniques designated for your specific test.
Please avoid mixing in completely unrelated or flashy moves from other martial arts styles.
We understand that minor mistakes and technical imperfections can happen during a long test—those are simply areas for normal feedback and scoring.
However, substituting the required curriculum with completely unauthorized techniques will negatively impact your eligibility for promotion.
Stick to what you learned in Sugi-bon, Ipgi, or Matdaegi, and you will do great!
🚨 Special Note: The Absolute Importance of Your Partner (Uke / 受け)
In Gongkwon Yusul, a test is not a solo performance; it is a harmony between two martial artists. The role of your training partner (Uke) is just as critical as your own.
Your partner must deliver realistic attacks with the correct energy so that you can demonstrate true defense and counter-attacks. When your partner receives your techniques with precise timing, proper falls (Ukemi), and full dedication, your own skills and technical proficiency will truly stand out and shine.
An exceptional Uke does not merely passively receive techniques. They must:
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Maintain proper tension and realistic posture to simulate an authentic combat scenario.
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Execute safe yet realistic falls to protect both themselves and the practitioner, ensuring the flow of the technique is never interrupted.
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Understand that their responsiveness directly dictates the quality of the demonstration.
Therefore, a great Uke is not a target, but an active co-creator of your martial art. Please ensure you practice extensively with a dedicated partner who understands how to be a great "Uke" before recording your final test.
Before uploading your examination video to the Gongkwon Yusul Academy, we highly recommend that you record, watch, and critique your own performance. Ensure that your Kihap timing, "Hoshin" etiquette, martial mindset, designated techniques, and partner synchronization are perfectly on point. Only when you are completely confident, submit your video for promotion consideration.
