These terms are Korean honorific titles used in Tang Soo Do (and other traditional Korean martial arts) to denote rank and teaching status, reflecting both martial expertise and leadership responsibility within the art. Here's what each term means and how it fits within the Tang Soo Do hierarchy:
Bu Kyo Sa Nim (부교사님)
Translation: Assistant Instructor
Context in Tang Soo Do:
This title is typically given to junior black belts (e.g., 1st Dan ) who are assisting in teaching classes under the supervision of a higher-ranking instructor. They are not yet fully certified instructors but are in the process of learning how to teach and lead.
- "Bu" (부) means assistant or deputy.
- "Kyo Sa" (교사) means teacher or instructor.
- "Nim" (님) is an honorific suffix used to show respect.
Context in Tang Soo Do:
This title is typically given to junior black belts (e.g., 1st Dan ) who are assisting in teaching classes under the supervision of a higher-ranking instructor. They are not yet fully certified instructors but are in the process of learning how to teach and lead.
Kyo Sa Nim (교사님)
Translation: Instructor
Kyo Sa Nim is responsible for teaching independently, managing students, and maintaining the standard and tradition of the art. They have demonstrated both technical ability and leadership qualities.
- This is the formal title for a certified instructor in Tang Soo Do.
- Generally applies to those of 2nd Dan and above
Kyo Sa Nim is responsible for teaching independently, managing students, and maintaining the standard and tradition of the art. They have demonstrated both technical ability and leadership qualities.
Bu Sah Bom Nim (부사범님)
Translation: Assistant Master Instructor
This is usually a transitional rank/title given to senior black belts around 3rd Dan who are undergoing master training but are not yet full Sah Bom Nims.
- "Sah Bom" (사범) means master instructor.
- The prefix "Bu" again indicates an assistant or deputy role.
- Nim adds the respectful tone.
This is usually a transitional rank/title given to senior black belts around 3rd Dan who are undergoing master training but are not yet full Sah Bom Nims.
Sah Bom Nim (사범님)
Translation: Master Instructor
Sah Bom Nims are the pillars of the art, guiding both students and instructors. They are deeply respected, and their role extends beyond the dojang, they represent the spirit, philosophy, and legacy of Tang Soo Do.
- This is a formal title given to individuals who have achieved Master rank, typically 4th Dan and above, and who have completed a certified master training program.
- "Sah Bom" carries high responsibility and leadership in the preservation, teaching, and propagation of Tang Soo Do.
Sah Bom Nims are the pillars of the art, guiding both students and instructors. They are deeply respected, and their role extends beyond the dojang, they represent the spirit, philosophy, and legacy of Tang Soo Do.
Kwan Jang Nim (관장님)
Translation: Grandmaster / Head of School
Kwan Jang Nim refers to the head of a Tang Soo Do organization or a large school system, often someone who is a 8th Dan and above. In many organizations, this is the title used for the Grandmaster or founder of a Tang Soo Do federation.
- "Kwan" (관) means school or organization.
- "Jang" (장) means head or leader.
- "Nim" is the honorific.
Kwan Jang Nim refers to the head of a Tang Soo Do organization or a large school system, often someone who is a 8th Dan and above. In many organizations, this is the title used for the Grandmaster or founder of a Tang Soo Do federation.
The Importance of Respecting Rank in Tang Soo Do
A Core Principle of the Malta Tang Soo Do Association
In Tang Soo Do, respect is not simply a formality, it is the foundation upon which our art is built. Respecting rank and title is not about hierarchy for its own sake, but about honoring the path, the effort, and the responsibility that each title represents. Within the Malta Tang Soo Do Association, this principle has always been upheld with the utmost seriousness, guided by the example and teachings of Kwan Jang Nim S. Nar.
Each title in Tang Soo Do, Bu Kyo Sa Nim, Kyo Sa Nim, Bu Sah Bom Nim, Sah Bom Nim, and Kwan Jang Nim, carries with it years of dedicated training, personal sacrifice, and service to the art and to others. These titles are not simply given; they are earned through discipline, humility, and a deep sense of commitment to Tang Soo Do's philosophy.
In Tang Soo Do, respect is not simply a formality, it is the foundation upon which our art is built. Respecting rank and title is not about hierarchy for its own sake, but about honoring the path, the effort, and the responsibility that each title represents. Within the Malta Tang Soo Do Association, this principle has always been upheld with the utmost seriousness, guided by the example and teachings of Kwan Jang Nim S. Nar.
Each title in Tang Soo Do, Bu Kyo Sa Nim, Kyo Sa Nim, Bu Sah Bom Nim, Sah Bom Nim, and Kwan Jang Nim, carries with it years of dedicated training, personal sacrifice, and service to the art and to others. These titles are not simply given; they are earned through discipline, humility, and a deep sense of commitment to Tang Soo Do's philosophy.
Why Respect Matters
Upholding Tradition
Tang Soo Do is a traditional martial art rooted in centuries of Korean culture and martial heritage. Respecting rank honors the lineage and traditions passed down through generations. When we bow to an instructor or address them by their title, we are not just showing courtesy, we are acknowledging the history and spirit of the art.
Recognizing Responsibility, Not Privilege
A higher rank is not a badge of superiority, but a sign of greater responsibility. Masters and instructors bear the duty of guiding students, preserving the standards of the art, and acting as moral role models. Respecting their rank is a way of recognizing the burden they carry for our benefit.
Cultivating Humility and Discipline
By respecting those who came before us, we train our own minds in humility. It reminds us that no matter how skilled we become, there is always more to learn. It teaches us discipline, both in action and in attitude, core values that lie at the heart of martial arts.
Building Unity and Order
A martial arts school functions best when there is mutual respect and clear structure. Recognizing titles and roles creates a respectful environment where learning thrives. It fosters a culture where new students, seniors, and instructors support one another, rather than compete or challenge unnecessarily.
Tang Soo Do is a traditional martial art rooted in centuries of Korean culture and martial heritage. Respecting rank honors the lineage and traditions passed down through generations. When we bow to an instructor or address them by their title, we are not just showing courtesy, we are acknowledging the history and spirit of the art.
Recognizing Responsibility, Not Privilege
A higher rank is not a badge of superiority, but a sign of greater responsibility. Masters and instructors bear the duty of guiding students, preserving the standards of the art, and acting as moral role models. Respecting their rank is a way of recognizing the burden they carry for our benefit.
Cultivating Humility and Discipline
By respecting those who came before us, we train our own minds in humility. It reminds us that no matter how skilled we become, there is always more to learn. It teaches us discipline, both in action and in attitude, core values that lie at the heart of martial arts.
Building Unity and Order
A martial arts school functions best when there is mutual respect and clear structure. Recognizing titles and roles creates a respectful environment where learning thrives. It fosters a culture where new students, seniors, and instructors support one another, rather than compete or challenge unnecessarily.