Students in Summit Academy Community School – Lorain’s summer Therapeutic Martial Arts and Literacy Mini Camp experienced a once-in-a-lifetime virtual martial arts class in real-time on June 16. The class was led by Grandmaster Kim Jeong Seong, founder of Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu Haedong Kumdo. His lesson was part of the school’s summer camp, instructed by Sensei Lisa Kozak.
When Grandmaster Kim appeared on screen, live from Korea, the students — ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade — stood tall and offered a traditional Haedong Kumdo bow, silently showing their respect in the way of their art, describes Sensei Kozak. She explains that Haedong Kumdo is a Korean sword art that emphasizes precision, discipline and mental clarity. She says that throughout the week, students are practicing foundational cuts, stances and drills with wooden swords, learning not only physical skills but also focus, self-control and cultural respect.
During the session, Grandmaster Kim emphasized key principles of martial training: focus, breathing and calmness.
“The lesson was clear. True strength is not only in the sword, but in the mind and
spirit behind it,” says instructor Kozak, who trained directly under Grandmaster Kim. “The students practiced remaining steady and calm, even while delivering loud, confident kihaps (spirit shouts), which rang out through the room with unity and intent. This experience was about more than martial arts. It was about self-control, awareness and honoring our energy through movement. Grandmaster Kim reminded us that clarity and presence are just as important as physical skill.”
Students expressed the impact of the lesson. One child shared, “It felt powerful when we all yelled together, but I also liked when we were quiet and still. Both felt strong in different ways.”
The students’ journey with Grandmaster Kim is not over, says Kozak, noting that he will visit Lorain on October 24 to teach the students in person, as a meaningful continuation of the connection sparked during the summer camp.
In addition, Kozak will host a public three-day Haedong Kumdo seminar, led by Grandmaster Kim, October 24-26, in the school gymnasium. Martial artists, instructors and guests from across the country are expected to attend, she says.
Registration is open through Eventbrite, says Kozak, who seeking community sponsors to help offset event expenses, which she is funding.
“This international connection and the upcoming seminar align beautifully with Summit Academy’s mission to support the whole child,” says Kozak. “Through literacy, movement, cultural awareness and real-world engagement, students are discovering that learning stretches beyond the classroom and across the globe.”
Lorain’s summer Therapeutic Martial Arts and Literacy Mini Camp is sponsored by the Summit Educational Foundation.