As with Martial Arts practices around the World, Korean Kumdo is imbued with cultural and philosophical thought of both current society and the historic past.
In this way the sport aspects of Kumdo practice seek to build strong Character in its practitioners, while good Character in turn contributes to an
ardent competitive spirit while respecting tenets of courtesy, respect, sportsmanship and fair-play. Though Kumdo is of modern vintage,
Kumdo schools still invoke the "O-Gae" or "Five tenets" associated with the Silla kingdom of The Three Kingdoms Period.
The modern rendition of this code is as follows:
Be faithful and respectful to your parents and elders.
Be faithful and respectful to your friends and colleagues.
Be confident and show courage when faced with injustice.
Be benevolent.
In the modern era, additional tenets have been added, often reflecting challenges common to competition.
Known as "the Four Poisons of Kumdo" these include Surprise, Fear, Doubt (or Hesitation) and Confusion.
Regular and ardent practice is encouraged to steadily bring these natural responses under control.
Similarly, Kumdo practitioners seek to develop a state termed "emptiness (K. Pyoungsangsim)
wherein natural execution of method is not impacted by circumstances or environment.
Another condition, known as "Kiwi" --- the state of mental, physical and spiritual discipline--- seeks
clarity and objectivity regarding the matter at hand. And Jan Sim (lit. "remaining mind") concerns steadfastness and perseverance.