Grand Master Jae Young Kim, a seventh-degree black belt from Elmhurst, took over this martial arts studio in early 2012. Formerly Tiger's Taekwondo, the new Kim's Taekwondo USA celebrated its grand opening in March.
The Korean-born Kim, 48, defines taekwondo as a Korean self-defense martial art that uses punches and kicks, but also adds to the inner development of students by emphasizing breathing and creating energy. Students test and advance through a 10-belt ranking system.
To Kim, taekwondo is not just about perfecting hand and foot techniques; it’s about teaching students confidence and respect for themselves and others.