Mstr. Il Nam Yang - UKMA Co-Founder

The Story: Mr. Yang was born and raised in South Korea and resided in South Korea until he immigrated to the United States in 1995. Mr. Yang’s practice of Tae Kwon Do began in 1978 and while in South Korea he entered numerous tournaments, individually and as a member of the competition team, and won recognition as regional sparring champion and accolades for his fighting skills. As he continued his practice under the fraternal order of the Chang Moo Kwan, Mr. Yang attained his 5th degree black belt. He pursued his education through the Kukkiwon and earned certifications as international referee, international judge, and international instructor. His current rank is 7th Dan black belt with the Kukkiwon.

Before leaving South Korea, Mr. Yang honorably served in the ROK army and was a Tae Kwon Do instructor during his service. He also taught the U.S. military at Army bases in Uijeongbu. He also had the opportunity to study Judo for and Gumdo for several years before moving to the States.

Upon Mr. Yang’s arrival to New York State with the purpose to proceed with the instruction of Tae Kwon Do, he was appointed Master Instructor for adults and children in the upstate area. Mr. Yang went on to open his school in Latham, New York in 2000 to serve the community offering Tae Kwon Do, Gumdo, and Krav Maga. Mr. Yang’s pursuit for knowledge in martial arts led him to Krav Maga courses and he achieved his black belt in Krav Maga in 2017 under Sam Sade. He also holds a blue belt in Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under the mentorship of Professor David Adiv.

Summary: Over 40 years of martial arts experience with 20 years as a school owner and Master Instructor, NRA Firearms Instructor, and avid multi-gun shooter.

Experience:

  • Tae Kwon Do - 7th Dan black belt

  • Haidong Gumdo – 5th degree black belt

  • Krav Maga Civilian and Law Enforcement Instructor – 3rd degree black belt

  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – Purple belt

  • NRA Instructor – Certified Home Firearm Safety, Certified Pistol, Certified Shotgun, Certified Refuse To Be A Victim, Personal Protection In The Home, Personal Protection Outside The Home

  • NRA Range Safety Officer

  • Patriot Knife System – Module 3 Instructor

  • Past experience in Judo

Current: Mr. Yang is the owner and operator of Master Yang’s Martial Arts Center in New York. His center offers programs in Tae Kwon Do, Haidong Gumdo, and Krav Maga to the Capital District community. This includes instructional training for law enforcement personnel. Mr. Yang’s school is the premiere center offering an extensive program including after school care, camps, demonstration teams, and competition teams. He lives in the suburbs with his wife, daughter, and three sons.