Hapkido is a Korean martial art, which is based on traditional Korean martial arts like Hwa Rang Do and Taekkyeon, and the Japanese Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu.

It is a martial art based on the inner strenght of a person (Ki). The basis of Hapkido consists of a broad range of self-defense techniques, with the intention to control the opponent with minimal force. The force of the opponent is redirected to be used against him (similar to the Japanese Aikido). Hapkido uses pressure points, joint locks, throwing techniques, controlling techniques, and striking and kicking techniques.

Hapkido is a defensive martial art. Use of weapons is limited to defensive weapons, like the dan bong (short stick, about 16in or 40cm long). Other weapons, like knives, sticks, even firearms, are only used as offensive weapons to practise defensive techniques on.

Closely related to Hapkido are Hankumdo – a Korean sword-art – and Hankido, a Hapkido style which emphasizes the power of softness.

I've been practising Hapkido for about five years, with my sa bum nim Ernst-Casimir Ernstsen of Won Yu. I'm currently a red belt (2th Kub). Our curriculum also includes Hankido and Hankumdo.