Palgwe Review-
Palgwe forms were first taught to Grandmaster Miller in 1974 on the island of Guam by Jong K Kim, a 3rd Dan Black Belt from Korea. Mr. Kim was one of three martial art directors managing Guam's Taekwondo Club at the time. Mr. Kim's unique Poomsae style and mannerism while perfoming these forms were second to none. His balance, poise, and attitude were remarkable to watch. As one watched Mr. Kim perform these line movement patterns; his eye contact with intended attackers along with hand blocks, and crisp front, side, and backside kicks were executed perfectly. His dedication to preserving the Korean "Pyong-An" patterns were obvious to student Miller. Because of the emotional connection student Miller felt through the teaching of these forms with Mr. Kim, they are still practiced and taught by him today.
Upon GM Miller recieving his 1st Dan Black Belt in February 1977, Mr. Kim gave him a directive to begin studying the "Taegeuk" Hyung patterns (Taegeuk is the name of South Korea's national flag). GM Miller follwed that directive and was tested by both Master Jong K Kim and Master Ronald Suggs 10 years later in San Diego for his 2nd Dan Black Belt.
Work in progress....
website looks great!!!
Warmest regards
Ron
Palgwe forms are not "Traditional".
They were in use for only 4 years, from 1967 to 1971 when they were eliminated by the KTA. Since, 1971, for the past 36 years, Taegeuk forms have been the standard, making Taegeuk Poomsae the "Traditional" forms.
First and foremost, thank you for the feedback. Allthough they may not be traditional to some by standards they are practiced by many martial artists who learned these "Pyong-An" patterns through 1977. Their simplicity and basic form offer students and practioners natural movement using center balance and waistline rotation as fundamental building blocks to self-awareness, balance, and form. I for one have studied these forms and the Taegeuk Hyung patterns for the last 30 years, and have come to the conclusion the Palgwe Forms work better to improve a students focus because they adapt easier to the simple line movement and lower stances. However, in keeping up with WTF standards, all students of this school are required to demonstrate their ability to perform both the Palgwe and Taegeuk Form patterns.
GM Miller
Hello GM Miller, Students & Family,
Nice website! Will have to get off my duff and come visit you before too long. Would be fun to drop down on an extended ride (I need an excuse to steer my motorcycle out of all the rain this year has brought us up here 🙂
Like to commend you for your superb perserverance in bringing authentic, traditional values in martial arts to your members for so many years.
Take good care
(feel free to publish my site or email as you wish)