I.K. Kim Tae Kwon Do Centers, Inc.

I.K. Kim Tae Kwon Do Centers, Inc. offers traditional Tae Kwon Do classes that include basic techniques, forms, kicking skills, board breaking skills, and board-breaking techniques. Classes also include self-defense training with self-defense strategies, partner self-defense, and supervised, controlled free-fighting (sparring). The program states that no previous martial arts experience is required, and new beginner groups start on the first class day of each new month at the listed training locations.

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• Schedule: Regular evening Tae Kwon Do classes are held year-round with beginner and advanced options on weekdays, and the average length of time required to progress from Beginner to Black Belt is three years.
• Price: NO CONTRACTS; students pay a monthly tuition fee, member and non-member rates are available, parent(s) with a child registered for the class may train for free, and associated uniform and belt test fees for parents are half price.

I.K. Kim Tae Kwon Do Centers, Inc. started on the west side of Cincinnati in 1967 and has grown to include numerous branches as one of the largest martial arts organizations in the United States. The program describes itself as very family-oriented and encourages parents and children to train together, with parents invited to participate with their child at half price when the child is registered and paid in the program. Classes are offered at multiple community and YMCA facilities, and new beginner classes start on specific first weekday class dates each month at those sites.

The leadership team includes Grand Master I.K. Kim, founder and President of the I.K. Kim Ja Be Ryu Tae Kwon Do organization and a 9th degree black belt, along with Sr. Master J. Metzner (8th Dan), Sr. Master M. Zimmer (7th Dan), Sr. Master K. Marner (7th Dan), Sr. Master R. Metzner (8th Dan), Sr. Master S. Eveslage (7th Dan), Master S. Kim (5th Dan), Master S. Herman (5th Dan), Master J. Kubesch (5th Dan), and Master P. Kovach (6th Dan), among others. Additional listed instructors include multiple black belts from 1st Dan through 4th Dan and several temporary Dan ranks.

The mission statement says the program has a rich tradition and focuses on the development of students as martial artists, emphasizing overall self-improvement, self-control, discipline, physical fitness, self-defense, balance, flexibility, and strength. It also states a holistic teaching approach that focuses on self-defense, physical fitness, and striving for continuous self-improvement, with emphasis on individual self-improvement of body and mind, including building self-confidence, self-control, mental and physical discipline, mental strength and focus, respect, patience, and humility. The program notes an emphasis on a traditional and well-rounded style of art that is different than sport-oriented or trendier styles.

Equipment guidance states that beginners should wear comfortable sweatpants and a T-shirt to their first few classes, training is done in bare feet, and students receive uniform order information at new student orientation on the first night of class. The program notes that students test to higher belt ranks with instructor permission at scheduled promotion tests throughout the year and that students progress at their own pace and fitness level. It also states that having a Black Belt looks great on a college application or on any work resume.

Testimonials from participants include: “I can’t thank you enough for the positive influence you have made on my family and I.” (J Wagner) and “I can’t imagine a life without Tae Kwon Do now. Thank you.” (M Guise).

Last updated June 29, 2026.