The Journey of Tong-Il Moo-Do: A Global Perspective

Tong-Il Moo-Do began under the guidance of Dr. Moon, who instructed Dr. Seuk to teach it at the Belvedere Training Center and the Unification Theological Seminary in America in January 1979. It was formally launched on April 15, 1979, when Dr. Moon visited a training session and inscribed a calligraphy reading “Advancing bravely forward with discipline.” By 1980, it gained attention through exhibitions by practitioners from various martial arts groups, including Kyokushin Karate and Chongdosul.

In 1983, Dr. Seuk led a tour titled "The Martial Arts and Unificationism," introducing Tong-Il Moo-Do to American universities. Despite initial opposition, it gained student interest and weakened leftist opposition by its second tour. Around this time, Tong-Il Moo-Do began spreading globally, with notable efforts by Kensaku Takahashi in Europe and Michael Kellett in the USA and Europe. Estonia became a crucial hub, facilitating entry into the Soviet Union before Dr. Moon’s Moscow visit in 1990.

By the mid-1980s, Tong-Il Moo-Do reached the Philippines, spearheaded by Gerry Servito, leading to thousands of students and 40 branches nationwide. Filipino instructors expanded its reach to Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. In Kenya, Henry Mungai and Francis Njiru established 32 clubs with over 1,000 members. In Argentina, Gustavo Giuliano introduced Tong-Il Moo-Do to neighboring countries and captivated audiences with exhibitions at venues like Luna Park stadium.

In the 1990s, Mr. Takahashi intensified global outreach, holding training programs in Africa, Europe, and South America. He organized workshops in Estonia, Russia, and other former Soviet states post-1992. During this period, Michael Kellett and Don Harbour established a headquarters in St. Petersburg. By 2001, under the direction of Chairman Hyun Jin Moon, international workshops were revived, beginning with a major event in Manila, Philippines. This attracted nearly 100 martial artists, emphasizing both physical techniques and spiritual teachings based on Dr. Moon's philosophies.

Workshops followed in Nairobi, Kenya, and Moscow, each gathering martial artists from multiple nations. In 2002, an advanced international workshop at Sun Moon University in Korea introduced new forms, such as Pyung Hwa eui Bon and Wang Gwon eui Bon, designed to symbolize Dr. Moon's Completed Testament Age thought. Demonstrations at high-profile events like the Hanmadang Games showcased Tong-Il Moo-Do's dynamic techniques, earning widespread admiration.

Tong-Il Moo-Do in India

In India, the Tong-Il Moo-Do Federation has been instrumental in promoting the art form under the leadership of National President Mr. Sudhir Malik and Secretary General Mr. Satish Choudhary. The Federation organizes workshops, competitions, and training programs across the country, integrating martial arts with character-building and discipline. These initiatives aim to strengthen India's contribution to Tong-Il Moo-Do’s global mission.

Tong-Il Moo-Do continues to inspire martial artists worldwide, fostering a unique blend of technical mastery and spiritual growth.