Siljun Dobup

Siljun Dobup – Sword-Based Martial Arts

Siljun Dobup is a sword-based martial arts based on a fusion of Japanese and Korean traditions. This martial arts style focuses on developing the skills to use a katana as well as “ki, breathing, flexibility, control of strength and focus”. Unlike Kendo, Siljun Dobup does not involve any sparring. Siljun Dobup is more like Iaido where the student is focused on the drawing, sheathing and cutting of a katana.

According to Sword Class NYC, Siljun Dobup “has deep roots in the Japanese koryu Toyama-ryu and especially Nakumura-ryu, as well as the ancient Korean sword forms Chosun Sebup and Bonguk Geombup. Unlike many forms of iaido, which are practiced from seiza, a kneeling position, it is Siljun Dobup primarily begins from a neutral standing position, making it easy to practice for students of all ages.

Students begin training with a wooden “practice” sword (bokken) and then graduate to a blunted steel sword when they have demonstrated an understanding of sword safety and the basic movements. After attaining a sufficient level of proficiency with the practice sword, students purhase a shinken (sharp steel sword) and practice their cutting technique on tatami mats in an exercise called tameshigiri”.

Reference Sources

1. Sword Class NYC, About Siljun Dobup, http://swordclassnyc.com/sjdb/, Added – 10/27/15
2. Siljundobup.com, What is Siljun Dobup, http://www.siljundobup.com/siljundobup/what-is-siljun-dobup, Added – 10/27/15
3. Perception Sword Academy, Art Form (Siljun Dobup), http://www.perceptionswordacademy.com, Added – 10/27/15