Keumgang

Keumgang refers to the ultimate strength and heaviness, which represents Mt. Keumgang — the energy source of the Korean Peninsula, Hobeop which refers to the protection of the Buddhaꠓdharma, and the two constitute the guardians of yin and yang. The name comes from “Keumgang Yeoksa,” which signifies the strongest warrior who is a master of martial arts, while “Keumgang”symbolizes masculinity, strength, and the indestructible. These factors are blended in the Keumgang Poomsae. Along with being the strongest, Keumgang means radiating light in all directions. When applied to the human body, it refers to the body’s state full of energy and ready to exert power with any part of the body. This is possible by the coordination of the left and right and upper and lower body to move as one. Further, it requires composure, no bias toward one side, and no recklessness, fear, or hesitation.

The Poomsae line of Keumgang follows the “山” character. The vertical line in the middle represents the central axis of the body and spine, while the short lines on the left and right signify the power crated by twisting the body left or right from the centerline. When doing Keumgang Poomsae, the practitioner learns rotational moves based on the body centerline (spine) to understand how to exert force with powerful moves while keeping the center firm like a big mountain.