May 2026 Black Belt Ceremony | Hong Ik Martial Arts
HIMA Black Belt Ceremony – May 2026
The Hong Ik Martial Arts Spring 2026 Black Belt Ceremony took place at the Headquarters location in Tarrytown, NY. It was divided up into two groups. Grand Master Yoo and all Masters under him shortly spoke about various topics to guide all new black belts in their journey going forward:
— Grand Master Yoo
Our consciousness travels to the past and future, even though our energy and body remain in the present time. However, even though we are in the present moment, we keep moving toward the future. Therefore, we should prioritize creating a bright future. Studying the TaeGeuk and Saam Taegeuk can support that greatly.
Principle of TaeGeuk: It is the harmonious condition of the universe, thus creating and evolving all beings. The red color in the TaeGeuk symbol on the Korean flag indicates light, expanding, and evaporating energy (i.e. air, fire). The blue color indicates flowing and sinking energy (i.e. water, metal, rocks).
Principle of Saam TaeGeuk: The lesson from Mother Nature on how we should live life, harmonizing between one another. Saam translates to three or third. The third color is yellow, which symbolizes human energy. Humans are seen as unique beings in the universe, encapsulating Heavenly/Divine Spirit within the physical body. Because we have been given this priority benefit, we should take high responsibility to show our gratitude to All.
— Master Oh
Any students who have reached black belt have accumulated significant experience to achieve this milestone. These experiences are akin to the calluses built up on an individual’s knuckles from repetitively practicing punches on a hard surface. Although those adversities were difficult, they made the individual stronger. Although new black belt students study many principles, it is important to keep reviewing even the basics. Sometimes you can work backwards from the higher goals (i.e. 8 Hong Ik Commandments, Self-Respect, Respect for others)
— Master Shinmin
Jung Choong: Maintain your physical health so your body doesn’t unnecessarily become a hindrance to feeling the greater Nature around you.
Ki Jaang: Become attuned to your breathing, especially Dahnjun Breathing, as it closely relates to our emotions. When you develop the ability to separate your emotions from your core being, you can transform negative circumstances into accelerated learning experiences instead of being dragged or shut down by them. Furthermore, you generally feel an expanded life perspective.
Shin Myung: Think positively so you can connect with ideas which uplift your fellow brothers and sisters of humanity. Discover and live as your highest self.
— Master Jisun
– Knowledge vs. Wisdom
An individual can become well learned through various research methods. However, intellectually understanding something is not the same as understanding an idea with your whole being. Applying a certain principle in your actual life manifests its true power and unlocks wisdom.
— Master Chun Shim
– All new black belts have laid the foundation for greater growth. Like the conquer principle story implies, there is always more to understand. Just as in academics, you use previous knowledge as building blocks for higher learning. Instead of specializing in one field of taekwondo (i.e. poomse, sparring, demonstration) or feel like the black belt is the end goal, use it as a compass in life. If one is able to tread the path of Do ceaselessly, they will feel a more gradual growth, rather than undergo extreme highs or lows.
— Master Moon
– Real progress is not made through one big step. Rather it is made through small steps taken every day. The black belt test requires each person to learn how to deal with pressure in their own way. Although each new black belt put forth a lot of effort, they should acknowledge their family’s sacrifice in supporting their achievement over the last few years. Additionally, they should recognize this is a new beginning and strive to lead by example for their peers.
– written by: Shin Min HyunSa (Master Patrick Malonso)