Hapkido Principle

The circle symbolises natural and continuous movement.

In relation to an attackers punch – instead of blocking it with a direct counterblock (meeting force with force), the circular principle is used to deflect or re-direct the force of the punch. Utilising a circle not only disrupts an opponent’s force, but also sets the position for a counterattack. In everyday life the same principle can be applied - if someone makes negative comments then these should not be countered with negative returns but be deflected in a circular way with positive ones.

The circle can also be thought of as an invisible area around oneself – if the attackers punch does not come inside this circle there is no need to block.

Circular motion is also important in relation to the education of students. Techniques need to be revisited with the added knowledge acquired from having completed the circle.