The world’s most dynamic speaker, a respected author, a successful entrepreneur, and Grandmaster of the Martial Arts — there is no one like Y.K. Kim. He wants to change the world with a new way of thinking: a new modern philosophy of personal and professional improvement through Martial Arts World. Kim arrived to the United States with only his black belt and his dream to have the most successful martial arts school in the U.S. After enduring many hardships, he was able to overcome countless obstacles and create the life that he dared to dream, despite constant discouragement from others. For several years, Y.K. Kim has influenced countless others through his knowledge on how there is incredible power that can be unleashed with the marriage of eastern and western philosophies. He is committed to his lifelong mission of improving lives through sharing with others the incredible benefits one can gain through martial arts training.
Grandmaster Y. K. Kim breathes, eats, and sleeps martial arts 25 hours a day and 8 days a week. His whole life isdedicated to improving and promoting the Martial Arts. Y. K. Kim is a living testament that the martial arts spirit and American Dream are alive and kicking. Born and raised in Seoul, Korea, and after he finished his military duty in his native country of Korea, he immigrated to America 1977 to begin his dream, despite harsh discouragement from many close advisors.
He started homeless and without a green card. Eventually, Kim was able to overcome cultural shock, financial hardship and language barriers to achieve a rare level of success and build one of the strongest and most beneficial Martial Arts organizations in the world.
He has proven his principles in his own life, from humble -- and sometimes even embarrassing beginnings, to becoming a world leader of the Martial Arts. He conquered every obstacle, despite the language barrier, to eventually build a multi-million dollar organization. Through his blood, sweat, tears, and Martial Arts spirit, he made his American Dream become a reality. Y. K. Kim has shared his American dream through touching thousands of people's hearts and helping them to succeed through his diverse achievements.
Author of Martial Arts World, Tae Kwon Do World, Success in Martial Arts Business, Health is the Foundation of Success; and now, Winning is a Choice!
World's most dynamic speaker on business, leadership, and motivation
Producer, writer, and star of the action film Miami Connection
Publisher of Martial Arts World Magazine
Celebrated public servant, winning the prestigiousThomas Jefferson Award for producing charitable events to raise funds for unfortunate children.
Honored by the proclamation of Y. K. Kim Day by the City of Orlando, City of Deland, City of Winter Park, and Orange County Commission in Florida, and by the Commonwealth of Virginia for his outstanding community leadership.
Appointed Honorary Deputy Sheriff by the Orange County Sheriff's Department for his support of the fight against drugs.
Commissioned Ambassador at Large by the City of Orlando for his extraordinary promotional ability.
Chairman and Founder of Martial Arts World and World Martial Arts Research Foundation
Grandmaster Y. K. Kim's next goal is to build a 4-year Martial Arts University to provide the world with future leaders.