Lee's Self Defense

Master Lee, whose school was in Tae-Bong-Dong (Seoul, Korea) was James Tille's first Hap Ki Do instructor. The story of James Tille (Now Dr. James Tille (PhD)) is singularly unique among American serviceman who studied overseas. In the 1970's, Tille had opportunity to serve three tours of duty in Korea. Already an experienced martial artist, Tille used the opportunity to take his studies to the highest level. On his first tour, he immersed in Kuk Sul Won, returning Stateside where he was authorized to teach and promote. During subsequent tours, he immersed in Sung Moo Kwan, and Moo Sul Kwan, ultimately achieving Black Belt or higher status in each of the systems. In effect, he attempted on each return to locate his prior teacher, only to find the master had moved on, whereupon he petitioned to participate with another school. He learned that though there exists a common thread amongst all practitioners of Hap Ki Do, there are also very considerable distinctions between schools and what is taught. At the completion of his final tour, Tille returned to share all he had learned, to whoever was interested. He was a treasure trove to those who had opportunity to work with him. All this was before the art of Hap Ki Do took full root in the States. Tille's personal students, though few in number, are recognized for their extraordinary breath of technique, and precision of execution. Dr. Tille has graciously provided these video clips of Master Lee demonstrating the extraordinary power and directness of his self defense. These were filmed in 1976, on 8mm film, and were performed by Master Lee for Tille to ensure the body of knowledge would be preserved. The techniques continue to be propogated today, within the Iron Crane Dojo and throughout Gun Fu.

Note: The Lee films have been digitized and can be viewed here.

Demonstration of Master Lee’s Self Defense

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