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Martial Arts Classes in Oak Park & River Forest, IL

We are the Original Home for True Martial Arts in Oak Park, IL, building a legacy of martial arts and self-defense excellence since 1994 (30+ years!). Led by Sr. GrandMaster Yu, a 9th-Dan, licensed 1st Class Certified, internationally recognized Sr. GrandMaster, kids, teens, and adults train in Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido/Aikido, and Judo through a single combined curriculum. We educate and develop future leaders with well-rounded awareness and knowledge of societal challenges, guiding them to discern their Way.

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts believes that the purpose of the Martial Arts Dojhang is to promote discipline and the Way, which includes the Way of Life, Justice, Peace, and Prosperity. The Martial Arts Dojhang is NOT a playground nor is it a birthday party venue: it is a sacred space for human development, fostering a disciplined purpose, good health, strength, and community through practice.

We believe the Martial Artist is “The One who follows and creates the Way using his/her own mind, body, and spirit.” Our teachers and instructors have a mission: they are responsible for developing each student’s highest quality of life. Our purpose is to “help the student discover the foundation of their life and build their interior kingdom.” This is true Martial Art.

Why Oak Park Families Choose Master S.H. Yu

Focus and Discipline

Structured classes teach students to listen, follow through, and carry that focus into school and work.

Real Self-Defense

Striking, throws, joint locks, and safe falling from four martial arts, taught for real situations, not just tournaments.

Confidence That Lasts

Every belt is earned through testing, so students build confidence on actual skill.

Learn From a Legend

Experience True Martial Arts

Learn From A Legend Video

Celebrating GrandMaster Yu’s Ongoing Martial Arts Leadership

Sr. GrandMaster Yu is a Kukkiwon-certified 9th Dan, one of the highest ranks in Taekwondo, and has taught martial arts in Oak Park for more than 30 years. In 2026 he was inducted into the U.S. Taekwondo Grandmasters Hall of Fame and named National Vice President of the U.S. Taekwondo Grandmasters Society. He still teaches 5 to 6 hours a day, so every student learns directly from a Hall of Fame Grandmaster.

Words of Wisdom from GrandMaster Yu

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“Since 1991, Master S. H. Yu Martial Arts has created a lasting impact on good citizenship, health, and vitality through traditional martial arts education for children, youth, and adults.”
“To impart the spirit and techniques of authentic Martial Arts Taekwondo to the next generation of Taekwondo Masters, Instructors and Leaders, is where the beauty lies in the spirit and techniques of authentic martial arts taekwondo.”
“Our organization continues to grow and thrive through well-trained BlackBelts, Instructors, Masters and Sr. Masters, all making a difference in their communities nationwide.”

One Program, Four Martial Arts

Most martial arts schools teach a single style. Here, every class combines Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo, organized by age and experience level instead of by discipline. You never juggle separate schedules, and each session builds striking, throws, joint locks, and self-defense together. The one separate program is our Saturday Kumdo / Gumdo sword class.

Martial Arts Programs for Every Age

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Adult & Teen Karate Lesson – Riverside, IL

Adult & Teen Martial Arts Classes in Oak Park, IL

A challenging, structured training experience for adults and teens of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Every class blends Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo, building practical self-defense, physical fitness, and the mental discipline that carries into every area of life.
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Karate and Martial Arts for Kids in Oak Park, IL

Kids Martial Arts Classes in Oak Park, IL

Our kids classes help children build focus, self-discipline, confidence, and real self-defense skills through our combined curriculum of Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo. Two levels ensure beginners and advanced students each train with their peers in a safe, encouraging environment. Oak Park families have trusted Master S.H. Yu to shape confident, respectful young people since 1994.
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Private Martial Arts Lessons in Riverside, IL

Private Martial Arts Lessons in Oak Park, IL

One-on-one training with Sr. GrandMaster Yu or Master Wilson, tailored to each student's goals, offered as a complement to regular classes for registered students of every age and level. Master a difficult technique, prepare for a promotion test, or accelerate your progress with focused individual instruction.
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Oak Park, IL Kumdo Martial Arts - Master S.H. Yu

Kumdo Martial Arts: The Art of the Sword in Oak Park, IL

Master S.H. Yu's Kumdo classes in Oak Park, IL offer one of the Chicago area's rare opportunities to train in the ancient Korean art of the sword, combining precise technique, deep mental discipline, and an authentic respect for martial arts tradition that is nearly impossible to find at other local schools. Students learn traditional sword forms, footwork, and sparring techniques in a focused training environment that sharpens concentration, builds physical coordination, and cultivates a calm and disciplined mindset. For Oak Park residents seeking a uniquely rewarding martial art that goes far beyond conventional classes, Master S.H. Yu's Kumdo program delivers...
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12 Week Martial Arts and Self Defense Program in Riverside, IL

12 Week Martial Arts and Self Defense Program in Oak Park, IL

The ideal starting point for beginners. This structured first season of training introduces the foundations of all four arts in our combined curriculum, with level-appropriate instruction and one-on-one attention for new students in a low-pressure environment.
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Tae Kwon Do Classes in Oak Park and River Forest, IL - Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts

Tae Kwon Do Training in Oak Park, IL

One of the oldest martial arts disciplines, Tae Kwon has been practiced for over 2,000 years, originating in Korea. The main goal of Tae Kwon Do is to unite the spirit, mind, and body by training the body and mind. Sr. GrandMaster Yu is internationally-certified and will give you the training needed to learn Tae Kwon Do. Tae Kwon Do Lessons
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*Class Schedule/Times always subject to change based on the service to our community & students!

**The Dojhang is cleaned daily after classes**

How to Get Started

Observe a Free Class

Visit our Oak Park school, meet our instructors, and see a class in action. Schedule a time or stop in during any class; no appointment needed.

Register

If it’s the right fit, enrollment takes about 10 minutes. We’ll help you choose a membership that fits your schedule and goals, with no long-term pressure.

Start Training

Pick up your uniform, set your start date, and step onto the mat. Most new students start within a week of their first visit.

Events

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We teach Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo combined into one curriculum under Sr. GrandMaster Yu, plus a separate Saturday Kumdo / Gumdo sword program.

Classes are combined. Students enroll by age and level (Children Level 1, Children/Youth Level 2, Adults & Teens), and every class draws on all four arts.

Not at all! We welcome students of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners. Our Children Level 1 and Adult/Teen classes are specifically designed to meet you where you are, focusing on the “Way” of discipline and personal growth regardless of your starting point.

We find that children as young as elementary age benefit immensely from the structure of the Dojhang. Our children’s programs focus on building self-confidence, coordination, and respect, helping them create a strong “interior kingdom” during their developmental years.

Yes, and we encourage it. Schedule a free class observation or simply stop in during any class time. You’ll watch a class in action, meet our instructors, and get every question answered before deciding. Appointments are appreciated but never required.

While progress depends on the individual, most students see consistent growth by training 2 to 4 times per week. You can view our current class schedule to find times that fit your family’s routine.

Membership depends on the program and how often you train. We walk through every option in person during your free observation so you can choose what fits.

Begin Your Martial Arts Journey in Oak Park, IL

Start your martial arts journey today with Master S.H. Yu! We offer expert instruction in Taekwondo, Aikido, Hapkido, Kumdo/Gumdo, Judo, and other programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Our school proudly serves students in Oak Park, River Forest, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, and Riverside, IL, making it easy to find a location near you. Whether you are interested in youth, teen, or adult classes, self-defense training, specialty workshops, or private lessons, our experienced instructors are here to help you build confidence, discipline, and martial arts mastery.

Contact us today to schedule your free class observation in Oak Park, IL. We look forward to helping you achieve your martial arts goals!

Latest News

September 2026 Essay Question

Congratulations to everyone who valiantly stepped up for their promotion test on Saturday, 9.12 - we observed significant progress in EVERYONE! Let's Keep Going! Let's Keep Growing! Here's your ESSAY…

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Martial Arts Gallery

Martial Arts Classes In River Forest, IL - Master S.H. Yu
Martial Arts Classes In River Forest, IL - Master S.H. Yu
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Testimonials

Rating 5  5 Star Moving Rating
“As the saying goes, “behind every great student is a great teacher.” Sr. GrandMaster Yu is indeed a great martial arts teacher with over 40 years of experience in guiding students to be their best. I am fortunate to be one of his students. Through Sr. GrandMaster Yu’s direct instruction, personal example and commitment to traditional martial arts principles, I have developed a martial arts worldview that has shaped me physically and mentally, and also as a caring and responsible human being.”
Rating 5  5 Star Moving Rating
“Since enrolling my son, I have seen incredible growth in his self-confidence, self-respect and physical coordination. Indeed, he was being so enriched and having so much fun, I joined myself and have enjoyed learning the new skills tremendously. Earlier this summer, we were in California and practicing our techniques together on the beach. Nothing on TV beats that.”
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