saenghwal

Saenghwal (선활) refers to a traditional Korean martial art and combat style that originated during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910). The term translates roughly to "martial prowess" or "military skill," reflecting its historical emphasis on practical warfare rather than formalized sport. Saenghwal encompasses a variety of unarmed and armed techniques, including grappling, striking, and weapon-based combat, often drawing from indigenous Korean martial traditions as well as influences from Chinese and Japanese martial arts.

Historically, saenghwal was taught to royal guards, palace officials, and military personnel as part of their training. Unlike later codified martial arts like taekwondo or hapkido, saenghwal was not standardized into a single system but rather a collective term for the diverse fighting methods used by Korean warriors. It included close-quarters combat (ssireum-style grappling), knife fighting, and the use of traditional weapons such as the *gwan* (short sword), *dae* (long pole), and *jwa* (spear).

Modern interpretations of saenghwal often blend historical techniques with contemporary martial arts training. Some practitioners focus on reconstructing historical combat methods, while others integrate saenghwal principles into modern self-defense systems. The art is sometimes associated with *hwarang* (a historical youth warrior group) and *subak* (early Korean martial traditions), though it is distinct in its practical, battlefield-oriented approach.

Saenghwal remains a niche field of study, appealing to historians, martial artists, and cultural enthusiasts interested in Korea’s pre-modern combat heritage. Its teachings emphasize adaptability, efficiency, and the application of force in real-world scenarios, making it a subject of ongoing research and revival efforts.