The American Jidokwan Association is divided into two branches: Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do. Each branch operates independently under the umbrella of the AJA, with their own curriculum and requirements, and serves a different purpose.
Jidokwan Taekwondo, one of the original nine kwans of Korean Karate, still exists under the authority of the World Taekwondo Jidokwan Federation. Our organization serves as an official branch of the WTJF, providing our members with official certifications from Korea. The curriculum required for certification is that of the Jidokwan itself, including the Palgwe series of forms (the newer Taegeuk series is also acceptable), the KTA yudanja series, and several older poomsae still maintained from Jidokwan's Kong Soo Do origins. While Dan certifications come directly from Korea, the AJA also provides its members with Instructor Certifications and official school charters to teach the Jidokwan system.
American Jidokwan Tang Soo Do is the system created by William Sirbaugh, and governed directly by our organization. AJTSD is a self defense system with extensive training requirements, in addition to the usual hyung (poomsae), kyorugi and kyukpa. Hyung requirements include the Pyong Ahn series and several older forms originally taught in Japanese Karate. Students are also required to demonstrate proficiency in Hanki Yusul (Hapkido) and Yudo (Judo) as they progress in rank, and separate certifications in these arts are available to those who meet the requirements. For more information on the history of American Jidokwan, please click here.
