I.M.A
The International Martial Arts Association (I.M.A.) is a global family of martial artists dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional Korean art of Tang Soo Do. At its heart, the I.M.A. is an organization of individuals, instructors, and schools whose shared mission is to advance Tang Soo Do while honoring its deep heritage, cultural roots, and time-honored traditions.
Founding and Vision
The I.M.A. was founded in 1984 by Dae Grandmaster Ki Yun Yi, a 9th Dan master originally from South Korea who brought his deep knowledge and unwavering passion for Tang Soo Do to New Jersey, USA. From a single school, Grandmaster Yi's vision has expanded across four continents, with affiliated dojangs now found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Yet, despite this global reach, the I.M.A. remains grounded in humility, integrity, and a strong sense of unity , values that define the Tang Soo Do spirit.
Yet, despite this global reach, the I.M.A. remains grounded in humility, integrity, and a strong sense of unity , values that define the Tang Soo Do spirit.
Leadership and Structure
The I.M.A. is led by Dae Kwan Jang Nim Ki Yun Yi, who serves as the president and technical head of the association. Under his leadership, a council of senior masters and instructors ensures that each member school maintains high standards of training, discipline, ethics, and student development.
The organization is structured to allow for both central guidance and local autonomy. Member schools operate within their communities with support from the I.M.A. in the form of:
This balance allows each school to reflect the unique character of its community while remaining aligned with the global standards and vision of the I.M.A.
The organization is structured to allow for both central guidance and local autonomy. Member schools operate within their communities with support from the I.M.A. in the form of:
- Seminars and technical workshops
- International grading and certification
- Instructor training and mentoring
- Annual global events, tournaments, and martial arts festivals
- A shared curriculum and philosophy rooted in traditional Tang Soo Do
This balance allows each school to reflect the unique character of its community while remaining aligned with the global standards and vision of the I.M.A.
A Brotherhood of Purpose
What makes the I.M.A. special is not just the quality of its martial arts, but the spirit of brotherhood and purpose that runs through every affiliated school. The goal is not to be the biggest , but to be the most respected, principled, and service-driven Tang Soo Do organization in the world.
Each year, the I.M.A. continues to grow , not only in numbers, but in impact. Schools are drawn to the I.M.A. because of its commitment to:
- High technical standards
- Strong moral character
- Cultural authenticity
- A supportive, respectful global network
Martial Arts as Community Service
One of the core beliefs of Dae Grandmaster Yi is that Tang Soo Do is not only for the individual , it is for the community. Every student is taught that martial arts must go beyond the dojang walls. As Grandmaster Yi often says:
“We are the community , so we must train not just to grow stronger ourselves, but to lift those around us.”
This philosophy is built into the I.M.A.’s code. Member schools are expected to give back to the communities that support them , through teaching, mentorship, outreach, and service. In return, these schools become respected anchors of discipline, confidence, and resilience in their neighborhoods.
“We are the community , so we must train not just to grow stronger ourselves, but to lift those around us.”
This philosophy is built into the I.M.A.’s code. Member schools are expected to give back to the communities that support them , through teaching, mentorship, outreach, and service. In return, these schools become respected anchors of discipline, confidence, and resilience in their neighborhoods.
Our Legacy, Our Responsibility
To be part of the I.M.A. is to be part of a living tradition. We don’t wear the Tang Soo Do uniform just to train ,we wear it to uphold a way of life. As black belts, instructors, and students, we have a responsibility to represent the art with excellence, humility, and purpose.
Together, we continue the legacy , not just by growing our numbers, but by growing our impact.
Tang Soo!
Together, we continue the legacy , not just by growing our numbers, but by growing our impact.
Tang Soo!