Grand Master Lee has left an indelible mark on the world of Hapkido, and his work is far from over. He has his sights set on the future of Hapkido around the world, with the ultimate goal of making it as well known as any other martial arts system. In 2010, Grand Master Lee hosted the 8th Triennial World Hapkido Championship in Battle Creek, Michigan, marking the first time that the tri-yearly event has been held outside of Korea. Grand Master Lee has been appointed to the position of President of the U.S. Branch of Kyung Hyang Media Group, a partnership which is mutually beneficial to both KHMG and Hapkido. The Kyung Hyang Media Group operates cable and satellite television networks, news services and other media to the Korean-language audience around the world.
Grand Master Lee's philosophy is rooted in traditional, proven techniques that have been in use for decades, but his teaching methods suggest a modern twist on the traditional focus. He does not force each of his students to train to the breaking point every day. He trains his students in technique and application, but requires his students to be responsible for their own conditioning. Because KMA is home to students from all walks of life and all age groups, it is not practical to force every student to condition themselves to the same level. Belt testing focuses on knowledge and application, rather than intense physical endurance.
1961 - Master Lee began his training at the age of six in Seoul, South Korea under the direction of Master Instructor Young Chang Kim in Moo Moo Kwan Hap Ki Do.
1974 - Head instructor of Moo Moo Kwan Hap Ki Do under Grand Master Young Chang Kim, Seoul, South Korea
1979 - Emigrated to US from South Korea to teach Tae Kwon Do and Hap Ki Do at the International Academy of Martial Arts, Kalamazoo, Michigan
07/14/1980 - Established Korean Martial Arts as Founder and President
1988 - Delegate to Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, and awarded citation in recognition of his contributions to the development and promotion of Tae Kwon Do
11/30/2003 - Awarded rank of 8th Degree Grand Master by the International Hap Ki Do Federation
07/2004 - Opened state-of-the-art Korean Martial Arts facility at 1600 West Goguac Street, Battle Creek, Michigan
05/17/2006 - Named Executive Director of the USA Kum Do Federation by the World Sport Kum Do Federation
10/06/2006 - Established KMA Advisory Board
07/19/2007 - Plaque of Appreciation presented by the Korea Tourism Organization for his work to enhance Korean/American relations
11/08/2007 - Named Executive Director of the 8th Triennial World Hap Ki Do Championships in Battle Creek, MI, USA 2010 by the International Hap Ki Do Federation
11/09/2007 - Distinguished Service Award presented by the General Association of Korean Moo Moo Kwan
03/03/2008 - Awarded rank of 7th Degree Grand Master by the Ee Sheep Sah Bahn Moo Yea K'young Dahng Association
07/19/2008 - Named Vice Chairman of International Hap Ki Do Federation
07/19/2008 - Named Chairman of USA Moo Moo Kwan Association
07/19/2008 - Awarded rank of 9th Degree Grand Master by the Korean Moo Moo Kwan Hap Ki Do Association
09/25/2009 - Awarded key to the city of Battle Creek by Mayor Mark Behnke
11/06/2009 - Inducted into the Martial Arts World Hall of Fame – Grand Master of the Year
12/05/2009 - Appointed Chairman of the United States International Hap Ki Do Federation.
01/16/2010 – Received International Referee class "A" certification.
03/20/2010 – Awarded certificate of Outstanding Leadership by the World United Martial Arts Alliance.
08/05/2010 - Awarded rank of 9th Degree Grand Master by the I.H.F.
12/02/2010 - Appointed U. S. Chairman of the Korean Traditional Equestrian Martial Arts & Gyeokgu Association
9/30/2011 - Appointed to the position of President of the Kyung Hyang Media Group, U.S.A.
12/03/2011 - Named Executive Director of the 9th Triennial World Hap Ki Do Championships in Seoul, South Korea 2013 by the International Hap Ki Do Federation - Letter of appointment
8/3/12 - Executive Director World Martial Arts Championships
6/21/12 - Appointed Senior Grand Master by the International Hap Ki Do Federation - Letter of appointment