Ancient Arts: Kuk Sool Kwan Hapkido HQ

I have been a student of Master Mike for over 8 years. I respect and admire the authenticity with which he carries himself and in his teachings. If there was ever a studio to really grasp the essence and spirit of learning martial arts as intended, Master Mike meets this in strides. The core group of students who have stuck around for years continues to grow as more people learn and understand what a unique studio this really is. This is about quality over quantity. In terms of the curriculum and martial art style itself, it's holistic, comprehensive, and explained in detail on the website. The progressive structure makes sense and Master Mike does his best to pull everything together and not teach concepts in silo. Beyond this, students will also learn meditation, history, and be challenged to push themselves harder.

What I love about training with Master Mike is that he adapts his teachings quickly to students. Under his guidance I’m refining how I catch punches, and position myself for counter strikes. This also includes how I am kicking. Since students are currently studying in the hard style, it very much has a Muay Thai feel or even being in a HIIT workout. Not only this, but students are able to train (depending on their level of belt) in a variety of martial art weapons, such as the eskrimas, and nunchucks. What I believe makes this dojang so special is the rich lineage that flows through the temple, and the care that is being preserved to keep the teachings alive. This includes the authentic martial arts teachings, such as the soft/hard style martial arts, and philosophical teachings. What you receive in one class is more than what you will get elsewhere. From my personally experience, studying at a martial arts facility like Ancient Arts Kul Sool Kwan is a huge honor, for it truly is a rare gem!

I have been in martial arts for over 40 years. I hold several master belts in Korean arts, I only say this to qualify this review. I first met Mike at his Costa Mesa studio nearly 20 yrs ago, where we became friends. I wouldn't waste my time at any dojang that wasn't first rate. He brings it. He is excellent technician and a great teacher. (And a pretty good healer). You'd be hard pressed to find a more knowledgeable individual in arts. He is, for a fact, highly respected by the Korean elders of the arts. He is the real deal, so be ready to change for the better.

Master Mike has a pure passion to teach and share his techniques. I started about 7 months ago and I truly feel like a better version of myself. My health and fitness are very high now; and my confidence is at an all time high. I look forward to continuing my journey in martial arts under his guidance. Thank you again Master Mike!

Very knowledgeable and skilled master. This school has a broad curriculum covering hard and soft sides of the martial art, as well as other supporting teachings such as meditation, pressure points and history.

Amazing Gym, very good training, nice people Today I took my first training at Ancient Arts Hapkido HQ, it was a perfect training and I learned so many new combinations, thank you to everyone. 🙏🏼

Master Dunchok is the coolest, most humble guy ever!!