Hyowol Kendo Club is the Incheon National University kendo club, boasting more than 30 years of history and tradition since its founding. True to the meaning of its name, “a gathering of kendo practitioners who greet the dawn moon,” members continually strive to cultivate themselves while learning the discipline, etiquette, and spirit befitting kendo practitioners.

Since kendo may be unfamiliar to many people, we would first like to briefly introduce the sport. Kendo is a martial art that uses the sword as a means of training both the body and mind. It develops not only physical ability but also discipline, etiquette, and mental strength. Through kendo, practitioners can improve physical fitness, reflexes, agility, and judgment while also developing courage, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. It can also help improve posture, cultivate composure, and build self-discipline.

Kendo is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and genders. It is often referred to as a “lifelong sport” because practitioners can continue training even as they grow older and their physical abilities change. In fact, experienced older practitioners often demonstrate especially formidable skill. Rather than being something practiced only when young, kendo can be pursued consistently throughout one’s life. Because practitioners wear protective equipment and spar using swords designed for training, kendo is also a relatively safe martial art with a low risk of serious injury. In addition, it requires balance and strength in the waist and lower body, making it an effective aerobic exercise that can be practiced without placing excessive strain on the body.

Our club regularly holds morning training sessions and Friday afternoon kendo practice at the Incheon National University gymnasium.

Members ranging from newcomers to senior students are given opportunities to spar and interact with students from other universities, including Hongik University, Seoul National University, and Seoul National University of Science and Technology. Through inter-club exchange events, we also build connections with instructors from kendo dojos throughout Incheon. In particular, we receive instruction from Director Lee Woo-seok of Jeonmu Kendo Dojo.

In addition to practical kendo training, we organize a variety of social activities to strengthen friendships among club members, including MT trips, festival booths, semester-opening gatherings, and even pet showcase events. Members also have matching club apparel, helping foster a strong sense of unity and belonging.

Hyowol Kendo Club is a versatile club that welcomes complete beginners and teaches them from the basics, while also providing experienced practitioners with opportunities to improve their sparring skills. This is your opportunity to improve both your health and your friendships through exercise—an opportunity waiting for you right now.