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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Kuk Sool Won, founded by Suh In-Hyuk in 1958, integrates tribal, Buddhist, and Royal Court Korean martial traditions. Its belt cascade from Huin Di white belt to 10th Dan tests acrobatic kicks, joint locking, pressure point strikes, acupressure healing, and 24 traditional Korean weapons.

White Belt (Huin Di)

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Beginner. Ethics, basic breakfalls (Nak Bup) and stances.

Symbolism & Meaning

Pure and untainted state of mind (winter).

Yellow Belt (Noh Rang Di)

Noh RangRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

First joint locks and escapes (Ki Cho Hyung).

Symbolism & Meaning

Earth (spring). Seed taking roots in Kuk Sool Won basics.

Blue Belt (Chung Di)

Chung DiRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Training with first weapons (short stick / Dan Bong).

Symbolism & Meaning

Sky or Water. Plant growing upwards.

Red Belt (Hohng Di)

Hohng DiRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced lock and kick techniques, dynamic forms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Fire, blood, and sun. Peak energy of blooming, but needs control.

Brown Belt (Jah Di)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Sword fighting, advanced breaking techniques and endurance.

Symbolism & Meaning

Mountain or tree trunk. Stability and prep for black belt.

Black-Brown Belt (Dahn Bo Nim)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Master candidate. Intensive one-year probationary period. Patience testing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shadow falling on the trunk. Personal transformation phase.

1st Dan – Black Belt (Jo Kyo Nim)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Assistant instructor. Full orientation in Kuk Sool martial principles.

Symbolism & Meaning

New beginning at the master level. Return to humility.