How can foreigners take martial arts classes in Korea?

Korea is a great place to take up martial arts and many dojangs (도장) welcome foreigners with English-speaking instructors, especially in Seoul, Busan, and university districts. For Taekwondo, Kukkiwon (국기원) in Gangnam is the world headquarters and offers special foreigner classes (about 150,000 won/month) plus short-term programs. The World Taekwondo Academy and Mooto Taekwondo in Itaewon also cater to international students.

For Hapkido, the Korea Hapkido Federation in Gangnam and the World Hapkido Federation dojangs scattered around the country accept walk-ins. Expect to pay 100,000 to 200,000 won/month for two to three classes a week, plus uniform (도복) costs around 50,000 won. Other Korean martial arts worth checking out include Taekkyeon (Korea's UNESCO-listed traditional martial art), Kumdo (Korean kendo), and Gungdo (traditional archery, with great clubs at Hwarang Archery Range). Most dojangs offer free trial classes, so visit a few before committing. Bring indoor shoes, water, and be ready to bow to your instructor (사범님) at the start and end of every session. The atmosphere is more disciplined than what you might find in Western gyms but very welcoming once you show commitment.