The art of taekwondo teaches much more than physical strength and conditioning.

“Taekwondo offers students better self-esteem, confidence and becoming better students in college life,” said Grandmaster Yong Chin Pak, senior lecturer of kinesiology.

Pak will be honored in November as one of the most influential taekwondo leaders in a week-long event in South Korea.

However, his greatest accomplishments have more to do with influencing students.

“Martial arts is about respect, confidence, and students can get better at it every time,” Pak said.

Michael Koschoff, sophomore in meteorology, participates in Pak’s classes.

“The benefits are the exercise, learning etiquette and the sense of self,” Koschoff said.

One of the key messages Pak emphasizes is that anyone can do martial arts and be successful at it.

“Anybody can do this,” Pak said. “Its all about commitment and consistency. Hopefully this can change peoples lives.”

Former taekwondo student Erica Phelps, sophomore in horticulture, also felt the benefits of being in a martial arts program under the instruction of Pak.

“It was a great workout and the atmosphere was very friendly,” Phelps said. “If I had more time, I would still want to be in the class.”

Pak believes that engaging in martial arts activities will help students become outstanding in their college years and therefore become more successful at life.

“I believe that this can help students accomplish high grades, and in today’s tough economy this is important,” Pak said.

Pak’s students would agree.

“Ever since taking these classes, I am very motivated to continue doing schoolwork,” Koschoff said. “Basically these classes are very motivating,” 

Besides teaching the movements of taekwondo, Pak also tells stories to the students.

“He gives us stories that are about improving ourselves and becoming our best,” Koschoff said.

Phelps said she thinks Pak is a great teacher and really keeps his students going.

“When the students show proper language and a positive attitude, that makes me very proud,” Pak said.

Pak teaches classes through the department of health and human performance and also assists with the ISU Hapkido Club.

Learn more about the ISU Hapkido Club at http://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/hapkido.