From Olympic Glory to Louisville Legacy
Discover the inspiring journey of Grandmaster Jung Oh Hwang and how his
Olympic spirit continues to transform lives in Louisville
20K+
Students Trained
Building confident leaders
28+
Years in Louisville
Since 1997
$1M+
Raised for Charity
Giving back to our Community
20K+
Louisville Locations
Jeffersontown, East End, Louisville
An Olympic Journey of Perseverance
Olympic Silver Medalist, Master Instructor, Community Leader
From a small farming village in South Korea to the Olympic podium in Los Angeles, Grandmaster Hwang's journey embodies the true spirit of martial arts: perseverance, discipline, and service to others. For over 28 years, he has been transforming lives in Louisville through his unique blend of Olympic-level expertise and genuine care for every student.
Master Credentials
🥈 1984 Olympic Silver Medal - Judo
🥋 6th Degree Black Belt - Taekwondo
🥋 6th Degree Black Belt - Judo
🥋 7th Degree Black Belt - Hapkido
🎓 Master's Degree - Physical Education, University of Tennessee
📚 Published Author on Martial Arts Philosophy
An Olympic Journey of Perseverance
From a small farming village in South Korea to Olympic glory and a lifetime of service in Louisville, Kentucky
1960s
Humble Beginnings
Born in Gumi City, South Korea, Jung Oh Hwang was the fifth child in a struggling farming family. When his father passed away during his youth, the family faced tremendous hardship. But young Jung held an unshakeable belief: nothing is impossible.
1964
The Spark That Changed Everything
After watching the 1964 Tokyo Olympics on television, 7-year-old Jung discovered his calling. He traveled one hour by bus each day to the nearest dojang in Sunsan, training with extraordinary dedication. By age 9, he had earned his black belt in Taekwondo.
1976-1980
Olympic Dreams & Devastating Setback
At 18, Jung earned a coveted spot on the Korean National Judo Team. He trained 7-8 hours daily at the Olympic Training Center, preparing for the 1980 Moscow Olympics. When the United States boycotted those games, his Olympic dream was shattered. But he refused to give up.
1984
Olympic Glory Achieved
Four years of unwavering perseverance paid off. At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Jung Oh Hwang won the Silver Medal in Judo, becoming the only athlete to make both the 1980 and 1984 Olympic teams. His "never give up" philosophy had carried him to victory.
1987
The American Dream
Grandmaster Hwang brought his family to America—his wife Sun and daughter Mimi—pursuing education while sharing his martial arts expertise. He earned his master's degree in physical education from the University of Tennessee and opened his first martial arts school in 1986.
1997-Present
Louisville Becomes Home
Since 1997, the Hwang family has called Louisville home. With three thriving locations and over $1 million raised for local charities, Grandmaster Hwang continues to transform lives daily with the same Olympic spirit that carried him to victory. "Louisville is my hometown," he proudly declares.
Our Exceptional Team
A family legacy of Olympic-level instruction and community dedication
Grandmaster Jung Oh Hwang
Founder & Head Instructor
1984 Olympic Silver Medalist who brings over 40 years of martial arts mastery to Louisville families. His "never give up" philosophy has transformed thousands of lives across three generations.
Master Sun Hwang
Co-Owner & Lead Instructor
Grandmaster Hwang's wife and partner in building the Louisville legacy. With her warm personality and 28+ years of experience, Master Sun creates deep connections with every family while upholding the highest standards of excellence.
Master Mimi Hwang
Youth Programs Director
The next generation carrying the Olympic torch. Master Mimi specializes in youth programs, bringing fresh energy while honoring the family's legacy of excellence, discipline, and community service.
Every Instructor is Certified & Background-Checked
Our professional staff members are CPR-certified, background-checked, and committed to your family's safety and success. We maintain the highest standards of excellence in every class.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide every class, shaping confident, disciplined, and respectful students.
🤝
RESPECT
Treat self, others, and the art with courtesy and gratitude.
🎯
DISCIPLINE
Stay committed to your goals on and off the mat.
⭐️
CONFIDENCE
Small wins build posture, voice, and presence.
👥
Community
Friends and teammates who lift each other up.
💪🏻
Perseverance
Push past challenges in training and life.
Giving Back to Louisville
Our commitment to the community goes far beyond the dojang
$1,000,000+
For nearly three decades, we've raised over one million dollars for Louisville charities and community organizations. True martial artists don't just train — they serve. We're proud to call Louisville our hometown and honored to give back to the community that has given us so much.
"Louisville is my hometown, and I'm committed to making it stronger, one student and one family at a time."
— Grandmaster Jung Oh Hwang