Every instructor is phenomenal, with adults and children. It is a gift that for more than 50 years, students in Boston have daily access to Grandmaster Kim. ALL skill levels are welcome here. I have been coming for three months and I am giant fan of the Boston location. read more

If I could give 1000 stars I would. I love this place, the teachings, the atmosphere, the instructors, the whole community. I can't even think of one bad thing about this place. It's amazing and Mr Song runs it perfectly! I can't wait to some day meet Grand Master Kim! read more

I started practicing a few years ago after my son started classes and love it. The practice space is huge and there are usually kids classes happening at the same time as adult classes, which makes it convenient for families. There are also lunch time classes during the week. The lunchtime classes are usually very small and it can be essentially a private lesson with a super teacher. The classes always run on time. The instruction is top notch and all the instructors are friendly, knowledgeble and approachable. Master Kim also teaches almost every day and is phenomenal. There is also light sparring on Weds and full contact sparring on Friday nights, which I've loved and would recommend. Every class is different and I've learned something new every time I've stepped on the mat. read more

I agree with both reviewers - I have yet to find a school where the instructors give so much individualized attention to their students. As Mr. Kim (the grandmaster and owner of the dojang) has said, once you're in, everyone is family to you. Higher-level belts will go out of their way to help you work on a form or on techniques, and you don't ever have to hesitate asking for help from the instructors (Mr. Hwang and Mr. Smith are all seasoned and incredible to work with). With that said, it is expensive, but it also depends on your plan. You can choose to go monthly, or you can be placed on a 2-year program that speeds your progress to attaining black belt status (that also means you should be going to the dojang a helluva lot more to get the most out of your money). Belt tests are included in the longer contracts; with the monthly contracts, you usually have to pay the fee for the testing. As a member, you have full access to classes (and if you're a Black Belt Program member, you get access to special Black Belt classes and to their other gym on the 2nd floor). Parking is a hassle, especially during Sox season, but if you're close by, it's a breeze to get to. read more

Jae H Kim Taekwon Do Institute - TKD Logo - Martial Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

The Taekwondo school feels like my home away from home. It has given me the chance to better myself both as a martial artist and an individual. I am very grateful for all that I have learned and continue to learn everyday alongside other motivated martial artists. read more

It's indispensable for me to come here and get training in order to maintain both physical and mental health - especially in this pandemic time. Master Kim teaches here EVERYDAY. (Seriously, where else can you get the chance to be the "grandchildren" of the Founder of Taekwon-Do??) Techniques taught here are authentic and professional, and include both "forms" and "sparring". Mentoring style is great - based on my observation, everyone training here is happy and satisfied. It's also a super friendly, cooperative and family-like community. Right now there's two options of class: on-site or virtual (zoom). I prefer going in person, and have been doing this for 3 months - and I'm healthy. read more

This school adheres to a formal style of ITF tae kwon do, which I liked. There was a lot more emphasis on form, style, precision, etc. than there was on sparring and competition. If you want ceremonial and structured work, this is the place. That said, I left because of several factors: The money push, mentioned below, was really off-putting. You get thrown in for a few thousand dollars as part of the "black belt plan", but there's always the sensation that they want you to buy more equipment, more private lessons, more this, more that... There is a stratification in the ranks due to people in the black belt club and those who aren't. Even if you attend regularly, you'll never quite fit in with the elites. It never felt quite right to be there. The individualized attention everyone is talking about never seemed to come my way. I always felt like I was lost, floundering, and getting injured due to lack of supervision. It was a strange sensation to get to a fairly high rank (brown belt, two belts from black) and feel like I didn't know anything. read more

Outstanding, individualized instruction for kids and adults. My ten year old son has been studying here since he was seven. Through supportive but strict instruction, he has not only learned TKD but also the tenets of the school: perseverance, courtesy, integrity, indomitable spirit. I cannot say enough positive things about the school - it trickles down from the highest leadership (Grandmaster Kim) to all the instructors and also the other students. Everyone supports and encourages each other to do their best. It is a fantastic school! read more

I enjoyed my time at the school and thought the quality of instruction was good. Here's the thing though... I signed a contract for the "black belt" program and was told that it essentially was the same thing as the month to month deal, a little more expensive, just that I didn't have to pay for the testing fees and stuff. Well, turns out, I obligated myself to a full years' worth of training. Now, I'm a reasonable guy and know I probably should have read the contract through more thoroughly, but come on. They totally did a sales-job and forgot to mention that fact... The real problem comes in that I have lost my job and now can't really afford it. So I call and try to put the account on hold or cancel altogether, I mean, have some compassion for a dude, and nope, no can do. Can't even stop the payments for a few months while I find a new gig. So, although instruction is good, I'd say stay away due to the unsavory business aspect. read more

The bad reviews do not reflect the instruction at this school. I can't believe that bad reviews exist here. Seriously, where else can you personally take classes with a Grandmaster? JHK won the Mookas award for a reason. JHK is worldly renown for a reason. Okay, maybe I'm a bit biased. I've been a part of the Jae H Kim Taekwondo community since I was 10 and I've helped to teach at another branch location. Albeit, I haven't seriously trained since I left for college, but I come back to visit now and then. Sorry if the several THOUSANDS of members are too busy training in the dojang than spending time reviewing the school(s) on Yelp. Simply, you sign up fully aware of what you are paying for and what the conditions are. Classes are offered seven days a week. What more can you ask for? They're a heck of a lot cheaper than dance or yoga classes - I know! read more

I frequent this school whenever I visit my family in Boston. My little cousins train here and I join them whenever I am in town. Hands down one of the best schools I have ever trained at. The quality of instructors is unparalleled, along with the individual attention each student gets. Recommend this to everyone, child or adult. You would be in good hands, the best probably. read more

My son attends the school, and I love the numerous class times for the kids and the incredible quality of instruction. The adult program also has a myriad of class times (7 days a week), and there is something for everyone. Full-range sparring, light sparring, high intensity workouts, forms and one-step classes as well as general classes for beginners and advanced practitioners. A great place for both kids and adults alike; I just wish there were more coordinated "mommy/daddy and me" times so I could coordinate going with my son. The school is conveniently located in Fenway, so you can take the train to it, but one disadvantage is that during game days parking is impossible, but it's easy to drop off and pick up. read more

Excellent traditional Taekwondo school. It's a fantastic and supportive community of instructors and students working hard to grow and learn together. I think the highlight for me is the experienced instructors. They truly understand the individual needs of each student to provide assistance when developing techniques. Mr. Kim is a world-renowned instructor and is known all over the world and it's an honor to train under him at the Boston headquarters of Jae H. Kim Taekwondo Institute. read more

I started Taekwondo at the age of 52. Now at almost 57, I feel 20 years younger! I've lost weight and Taekwondo is keeping me young and vibrant. Although I've not advanced as quickly as some of my younger counterparts due to minor health problems and injuries, I feel empowered and strong! I'm now training hard for my black belt and intend to keep going as long as I can. I love the school. Mr. Kim is one of the finest international grandmasters in the world and I feel privileged to get trained by him and the other high quality teachers at the school. Every time I go, I learn something new. It's an art form with a fascinating history that never gets boring. The other thing I love about the school is that there is a great span of ages, races, religions and nationalities among the members. Americans, Africans, Asians, Europeans, Jews, Christians, Moslems, , Buddhists, atheists, whites, Asians, Latinos and black people among others all work out and get along beautifully at our school! Who would have thought that a place where we learn to fight is one of the most harmonious, respectful places anywhere. As Mr. Kim says "World peace through Taekwondo"! read more

Been here for a year. I highly suggest this place, masters are well professional and are serious with the pandemic ! Master Kim is available everyday ,anytime. Me and my best friend go here a lot and we love it. Helps you stay fit and the school is Available for online classes so when you don't feel like coming in person or your sick you can log into zoom. read more

My 13 year old son transitioned to the Boston branch this spring and has since then been enjoying and inspired by Grandmaster Kim's instructions. We are amazed by Mr. Kim's passion, kindness and close attention that he shares with all his students both onsite and online (at the same time!). It has been nothing but a great, positive experience for my son. Highly recommended! read more

This school is a classic blend of old school traditional TKD values and innovative personalized modern day teaching techniques. New students are enthusiastically welcomed no matter their experience, skill level or age, and it's always fun to watch as they quickly get caught up in the fun of learning and self improvement. I've been a student here for many years and in every class I attend I am challenged, and in every class I learn something new. I highly recommend it! read more

I had some prior experience with TKD and I was forced to start from scratch at the school and retake my belts (of course I had to pay for that). Talking to other people at the school I saw that that is their common practice for everybody Also the arrogant attitude from many instructors, but especially Mr Smith were a real turn off. I was forced to take three private classes at the beginning. I thought I was a really good idea, but the people teaching those really did not feel like being there. It was was total waste of time. I do not recommend this place at all. Thank God I had some prior experience with TKD otherwise I would hate it based on my experience at this place. read more

It's a great school!!! I really like it and have been improved a lot through learning here!!!

While I appreciate Richard's comment on my review, I will say that I was unable to finish my "term" due to health reasons, permanent health reasons. I was offered to extend my "term" for a period of months to see if my health improved, which of course, it did not. read more

Mr. Kim runs an amazing school. If my work schedule hadn't been so rough, I would've been here much more often. The instruction is solid, and there is an extensive schedule of classes. I've studied at several schools as I've moved around the country, and Jae H Kim was definitely one of the better schools. The only downside I can think of is the location by Fenway, which can be problematic during home Sox games. For those detractors, keep in mind that in the end, a school is still a business. There are rent and equipment costs, instructors need to be paid, and electricity isn't free. It can seem expensive, but if you want solid Tae Kwon Do instruction, then this is completely worth it. read more

My son started learning Taekwon-do and I started mainly to encourage him. When I started a year ago, I was not sure how long I would do it but now I'm sure that I'll continue for as long as I can. It has been a great experience learning a new skill, improving my fitness level and interacting with a great group of like-minded people. It's also making my son more disciplined, focused and motivated to work hard. Grandmaster Kim and all the other instructors are amazing and continue to provide individualized tips and encourage everyone to do better. Really glad we joined this school! read more

Can't agree with the last reviewer more. This place really cares that you make progress. I observed a class and decided to try it. I'm still there. Nothing keeps you progressing faster than practicing more; therefore, they instructors will push you to come more often. You pay by the month here, so they are pushing you to come for your own benefit and not theirs. read more

JH Kim is a true martial arts school. This is, as opposed to somewhere to learn martial arts, it is the university as opposed to the community college. the outstanding level of tuition is just where it starts, the fact that this school has large numbers of black belt members of varying degrees means that you can learn more in a warm up discussion than you would in an entire lesson at some other schools. The constant stream of lessons means that you can get top notch teaching no matter when you are free to train, and the friendly atmosphere menas you can always find someone to train with, if you just want to go over some of the basics with a fellow member. I have traveled around looking for a replacement for this school and generally you pay more for so much less, fancy paying $100 per month for a school that only has 4 lessons a week? this is always going to give you as much as you can take and so much more. read more

Very impressed with the quality of training here at Jae Hun Kim Taekwon-do. I always leave class feeling fulfilled because I know I am being taught tea-kwon-do the traditional way by elite instructors while also being surrounded by such a unique community that is always trying to bring out the best in each other's abilities. JHK Institute is definitely the best. read more

Having trained in Korea (although in a different martial art) I know what to expect from an authentically taught Korean martial art studio. What most (definitely not all!) American schools miss is the mentality. Masters (and therefore their instructors and therefore their students) tend to get stuck in simply pushing the student until the student as achieved an acceptable skill level. Yes, pushing is good, but with proper encouragement and the proper mentality. I've taken Taekwondo in several American studios, and what I've seen is that they forget self-control. They forget that Taekwondo is a self-defense martial art and should only be used as the last resort. Taekwondo instills "a concept and spirit of strict self-imposed discipline and an ideal of noble moral rearmament" (Choi, General Hong Hi. Encyclopedia of Taekwond-Do. 1st ed. 1 vol. Hong Kong:International Taekwond-Do Federation, 1983. Print.). This is almost always forgotten, but it is the most important part! Taekwondo must be taught responsibly because the students are training and allowing themselves to become a weapon. JHKim's TKD Institute has demonstrated that they teach the mentality and the physical martial art with the best quality. I've been at this institute for almost a year and plan to continue training for as long as I'm in Boston (hopefully I'll be able to stay and practice forever!). All the instructors are carefully placed by the Master himself, and they all teach wonderfully. Not only that, but every instructor is also a wonderful human being. If you need the help, want it, and will work for your own improvement, the instructors are there to help without a question. The teaching staff is both critical of your technique and offer positive reinforcement, which makes the experience that much more pleasurable. When you are there, you feel encouraged to improve. While having a good workout, you're having fun and relieving stress from school and/or work. The other members surely feel the same, because the atmosphere in the entire dojang is positive and encouraging. I would recommend this school to anyone wanting to begin or continue taekwondo. The experience for me is very Korean--authentic and thorough. You can't get this type of experience anywhere else in the US (except for maybe at another of Mr. Kim's schools)! This school is my home away from home. read more

Unlike places that don't care about the quality of their teaching, this place does. They allow you to observe a class or two and are very willing to answer any questions you have about the martial art, the school or anything. Students there are very friendly, you'll usually get a smile or a hello or both, and don't mind answering questions (so long as it's not they aren't testing). It's not competitive atmosphere as students don't compete against one another unless in sparring, which is carefully monitored. It is, however, expensive (for college students at least). You can go from month to month, 6 months or a year, depending on how long you'll be in the area. And students are free to take as many classes as they want and to train as often as they like. And honestly, it's like going to the gym. You get as much out of it as you get in it. Considering that other martial arts places I've researched (and gyms, if you think about it) don't offer so many classes, it really is worth it. There are two training areas, so if one is being used, there is usually the other area free to practice or lift weights. They also have a special "Black Belt Program" which allows you to ask for special tutorials if you're having trouble with a move or a form, to help you catch up if you've been ill or out of practice and to use a special room set aside for the BBP members. Being a member of the program also allows you to freely practice at their other locations in MA. They also sell sparring gear, pads, gym bags and clothing related to TKD. Parking can be hard to find, as it's located right outside of Kenmore Square and near the Fenway. It can be maddening trying to get to class while trying to get away from the flow of Red Sox fans. http://www.tkd-boston.com/ read more

I went to this school for many years and was very pleased by the training I got and the friends I made. Like many things, you get as much out of it that you put into it, so don't enter lightly. This place costs more than a regular gym but it is worth it. Unlike others who have posted, I never felt scammed. I knew what I was paying for and it was explained to me. Yes it is more expensive, but I was willing to pay that to get such good training and have a lot more fun than the gym. Plus it is an excellent work out! I had a couple times where I had to stay away for a month or so due to my schedule and I was so sore when I started back up! They used to have promos where you could try it for a month and once I did that I was hooked! They still may have the promos. I think it is really worth while if you can make it 3x a week, especially as a beginner. You will learn a lot, get in shape, and make great friends. read more

by far, one of the best martial arts schools in the city of Boston....and by the global presence Mr. Kim has established, I'd go so far as to say around the world. I received my black belt in 2003 from Mr. Kim. I stopped practicing in 2005 when I became pregnant. Since then, I have tried other martial arts schools (more local to my home), but found all of them to lack the skill/focus that was fundamental in Mr. Kim's teachings. I am now back at Mr. Kim's school and find the school, its instructors and students to be top notch!! read more

Excellent school, with great instructors for both kids and adults. The blackbelts were also very friendly and helpful as I worked my way through the color belts. Though a blackbelt now myself, there is always more to learn. Also, it is a fantastic workout. I'm in the best shape I've been in for years. read more

I have been a member of the school for three months now. It is amazing! the instructors are very good and very nice people, and dedicated to teaching taekwondo. Mr. Kim, the grandmaster, is one that I think is inspiring person. His accomplishments and his way of teaching are great. He is humble and really cares about each of his students. I really love the school. when I came to the school for the first time, I did not expect that I going to love it this much. now, the school for me is a reason that I want to stay in Boston permanently XD. it turned Taekwondo for me from an interest into a passion. read more

A great school. The staff is truly dedicated to Taekwon-do and the personal development of students. I have attended Mr. Kim's school since 2001 and my sons will train at the school in a few years. A perfect example of Mr. Kim's commitment to Taekwon-do is the fact that he provided room and board for a dozen students, including myself, several years ago to visit South Korea. We explored the birthplace of Taekwon-do and Mr. Kim was the ideal host. The school is a great place to learn the Taekwon-do. read more

I have studied martial arts for many years at a number of schools and Jae Hun Kim is far and away the best. There are clear, tangible reasons why. First, it starts with Mr. Kim who is absolutely amazing. If you watch him, you will understand. Secondly, the instructors he trains are exactly what you would expect from someone trained by the best. Their form is wonderful and they are really helpful. Finally, the way the school is organized is great. If you want to catch up on forms, you can go to a forms class. If your interest is sparring, you can go to scheduled classes which emphasize that. If you are serious about martial arts, Jae H Kim Taekwon Do is the best choice. Ed D. read more

This school has an excellent reputation world-wide. I must say that thus-far I have had a great experience with the Jae H. Kim Taekwon-do Institute. The school offers a variety of classes, including forms, light and full-range sparring, and classes designed to improve ordinary techniques. The personnel is very friendly and willing to help out anyone anytime! I recommend this school for taekwondo practitioners who want to improve their taekwondo skills, maintain a healthy body and lifestyle, and exercise daily. The institute is open Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Among all, Grandmaster Kim is a world-renowned takewondo instructor who has fostered decorated champions such as Michael O'Malley, Joe Rogan, and others. I highly recommend this school to new-comers! read more

J. H. Kim TKD is fantastic. It is unfortunate that some people have not understood the terms of their agreements. I signed my son up for the BB Program and was very happy with it. As for being "hit on", or not a comfortable placefor women, I have never seen that as a problem at the school. On the contrary, many of the senior members and some of the instructors are women. There is no place safer and more respectful of each and every member. I have trained off and on at the Boston school for a number of years and everytime I come back, I feel right at home. The schedule allows you to take as many classes as you want. Classes are available 7 days a week. This schedule flexibility is incredibly convenient. If you want to just come and work out without taking a class, that is ok too. My son and I took classes at the same time and it was a fantastic bonding experience. Mr. Kim is regarded as one of the finest martial instructors in the world, and for good reason. The analytical, common sense approach he takes is unique in the world of TKD. As for self defense, as someone else put it, you get out of it what you put into it. I would advise anyone interested to take a look for themselves. You won't be sorry. read more

My sister introduced me to this school and I LOVE IT!! I took a few private lessons and even watched the owner JHK teach the competition team. The training is intense but definitely the best I have seen yet. The staff is nice and the facility is awesome! Wouldn't go anywhere else! read more

I started taekwon-do when I was five and had to stop training as much (and leave my original school in Virginia) when I moved to Boston for college. Entering my senior year of college, I decided to start up again. I came in to JHK just to observe a class, and originally I had planned on taking a few days to decide on whether or not I was going to sign up, but I ended up signing up that day because of how great everything seemed. Firstly, I was surprised to see Grandmaster Kim was teaching the class I was observing, and I was even more happily surprised that he took the time to come and introduce himself to me. After watching the class, Mr. Smith and I spoke about where I would fall in terms of classes and everything, and he was incredibly helpful. I've visited other schools before and they're usually not too welcoming to students coming from other schools, but Mr. Smith and everybody at JHK made me feel extremely welcomed. I had my first private lesson with Peter Holland yesterday to get back into the swing of taekwon-do, and he was incredibly patient and helpful. Having done taekwon-do for 10+ years, I have a lot of things ingrained into my muscle memory that are a little different than they do at JHK, and he was very patient when it took me some time to adjust. After a couple of days, I can already tell that I'm going to love it here. read more

This school is truly one of a kind. After I left Boston, I tried to find something similar and I haven't been able to. Their techniques and teaching are incomparable, but honestly, that's not what makes the school. It's something deeper than that. This school has, as its foundation, a rich martial arts spirit. The ethic in non-competitive, disciplined, family oriented, and wholesome. The emphasis is individual striving. I used to attend classes regularly for almost two years, which were some of the most difficult two years of my life for other reasons. My psychological, physical, and spiritual health were all nurtured here. The best medicine I could prescribe to anyone :). As an aside, Peter is a genuine, patient, skilled, and effective teacher. I hope he continues to teach. I owe a big thank you to this school. read more

study with a master: 5-stars goes to Jae H Kim's stellar taekwon do institute. My 11-year old son studies here and LOVES it. The instruction is spot-on for fidgety kids, and I've noticed a big improvement in his behavior and his confidence level. Definitely go and check this place out for your children -- you'll be glad you did! read more