Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, is one of the most influential figures in the history of martial arts.
Summary of Biography:
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Birth and Childhood:
Oyama was born on July 27, 1923, in Korea (originally named Yong I Choi). He had a strong interest in martial arts from a young age and began his initial training in traditional Korean disciplines, such as “Gumdo” (sword fighting).
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Immigration to Japan:
In his youth, he immigrated to Japan and studied at Takushoku University. In Japan, he learned Shotokan Karate under Gichin Funakoshi and later developed an interest in other styles, such as Goju-Ryu.
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Beginning of the Kyokushin Journey:
Oyama designed very rigorous training routines for himself with the aim of creating a more realistic and practical style of karate. For several years, he retreated to the mountains to train alone, where he took his physical and mental abilities to their peak.
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Oyama and Fighting Bulls:
To prove the power of Kyokushin, Oyama fought bulls in demonstrations. He would break the horns of bulls with his bare hands, which greatly contributed to his fame.
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Founding of Kyokushin Karate:
In 1953, he established the first Kyokushin dojo in Tokyo. Kyokushin quickly gained popularity worldwide due to its emphasis on physical strength, rigorous training, and full-contact fighting.
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Books and Philosophy:
Oyama wrote several books about karate and the philosophy of life. He believed that karate is more than just a martial art; it should be a tool for personal character development and overcoming personal limitations.
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Death:
Masutatsu Oyama passed away on April 26, 1994, due to lung cancer.
His Legacy:
By founding Kyokushin, Oyama established one of the most powerful styles of karate, which has inspired many other styles. His legacy remains alive in Kyokushin dojos around the world, and his students continue to uphold the principles of hard work, respect, and fighting that he embodied.