When choosing a Taekwondo school, what matters most? The facility and location matter, of course — but in the end, it comes down to who is teaching. At US Taekwondo Center in La Mirada, every class is taught personally by Master Jang Hwan Kim. Today, we’d like to introduce the man who leads our dojang.
Teaching on the mat since 1996
Master Kim has been teaching Taekwondo since 1996. Over nearly three decades, countless children have grown from white belt to black belt under his guidance — and some have gone on to compete internationally. What that experience represents isn’t just technical skill, but a deep understanding of how to help each individual student grow.
Coaching the USA National Team in 2007
A defining chapter in Master Kim’s career is his role as a 2007 USA National Team coach. That year, he led a 10-athlete USA National Team at the 3rd Korea Open Taekwondo Championship in Incheon, South Korea. He was officially recognized for his leadership at the event by California Taekwondo United.
That national-team-level coaching experience carries directly into every class. From a four-year-old putting on a uniform for the first time to an athlete preparing for competition — the chance to learn from the same master is a rare opportunity.
A track record on the record
Master Kim’s work has been documented in many places:
- Teaching Taekwondo since 1996
- Team Coach, 2007 3rd Korea Open Taekwondo Championship (Incheon, Korea)
- Tournament Committee Chair, California Taekwondo United (2018)
- Featured cover athlete, Martial Arts USA Magazine
- Coached gold medalist Jonathan Kim (2015 Trinidad & Tobago Open)
Teaching people before technique
There’s something Master Kim always emphasizes: Taekwondo is about far more than kicks and forms. In his words:
“The goal of our school is to nurture individuals with discipline and confidence, and to raise people who respect their parents and others. Holding true to the traditional spirit of Taekwondo while using innovative teaching methods to help students become true winners in life — that’s why I step onto the mat every day.”
In fact, what parents tell us most often isn’t about technique — it’s about changes in attitude. “They greet people properly now.” “Their focus has improved.” “They’ve gained confidence.” That is the Taekwondo Master Kim strives for.
Come meet him in La Mirada
Reading about him is one thing — meeting him is better. US Taekwondo Center offers a free trial class. Experience Master Kim’s teaching firsthand and see if it’s the right fit for your child. We’re an easy drive from La Mirada, Buena Park, Whittier, Fullerton, Norwalk, and La Habra.
- Instructor: Master Jang Hwan Kim (teaching since 1996, 2007 USA National Team coach)
- Location: 15532 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada, CA 90638
- Phone: (714) 739-8676
- Who: Children ages 4+, teens, and adults