Master Ji Hyun Kim
Sparring Coach
Master Ji Hyun Kim is the driving force behind Regulus Taekwondo's competition program. A 5th Dan Black Belt certified by the Kukkiwon, she has been competing in Taekwondo sparring since middle school, where she served as a Competition Team Member at Dong Sung Middle & High School in South Korea.
Her competitive record speaks for itself: 1st Place (Sparring) at the Seoul Taekwondo Junior Championship, 2nd Place at the Korea National Junior Taekwondo Federation Championship, 3rd Place at the Korean National Junior Taekwondo team qualifier (2002), and 2nd Place at the ROK Army 8th Corps Taekwondo team qualifier (2010). She holds USA Taekwondo Level 1 Coach and Referee certifications.
Master Kim's journey extends far beyond the mat. She is a graduate of the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, China, with a Bachelor's degree in International Economics and Trade. She served as Local Coordinator for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games for the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), worked with the China Southern Airlines Cabin Crew Department (Korea Branch), and completed military service in the Republic of Korea Special Assault Commando — a distinction that reflects her exceptional discipline and resilience.
Fluent in both English and Chinese, Master Kim serves the diverse Irvine community with exceptional ease, making Regulus Taekwondo a welcoming home for students from all backgrounds. Her ability to communicate complex techniques clearly in multiple languages has made her a beloved instructor among students and parents alike.
Whether you are competing at the regional level or simply looking to build confidence and fitness, Master Kim will take you further than you thought possible.
Education
Martial Arts Certifications
Awards & Accomplishments
Professional Experience
"Every champion started as a beginner. Let's begin your journey today."
Join Us
Train With Master Kim
Experience championship-level sparring instruction from a former elite athlete. Start with two free introductory classes.
Knowledge Base
Your Questions,
Answered
New to martial arts? Here is everything you need to know about starting your journey with us.
General Questions
What age groups do you offer classes for?
We welcome students starting from age 3! Our Lion Cubs program is designed for ages 3–5, Lion Kings & Queens for ages 6–10, and Lion Teens & Adults for ages 11 and up. We also offer an elite Leadership Team program by invitation for advanced students.
Do I need any prior experience to join?
Not at all. Every martial artist starts as a beginner, and our instructors excel at meeting students exactly where they are. Whether your child has never taken a class or you're an adult starting for the first time, you will feel welcome and supported at Regulus Taekwondo.
What makes Regulus Taekwondo different from other schools?
Regulus Taekwondo is led by Kukkiwon-certified Masters who are former elite athletes with decades of world-class experience. Our philosophy goes beyond martial arts technique — we are dedicated to developing youth leaders who contribute to the Irvine community. Our Leadership Team program is one-of-a-kind, combining Taekwondo curriculum with real business and leadership training.
What should I bring to my first class?
Just bring comfortable athletic clothing and a great attitude. Once you decide to continue, we will guide you on getting the right uniform and equipment. Everything else we provide!
How often should we train to see results?
We recommend attending at least two classes per week for consistent progress. Many students find that martial arts quickly becomes the highlight of their week, and progress accelerates with regular attendance.
Do you offer a free trial?
Yes! We offer 2 Free Introductory Classes for new students. It's the best way to experience our community, our teaching style, and the Regulus difference — completely free, with no commitment required.
What is the Leadership Team program?
The Regulus Leadership Team is an elite, invitation-only program for students who show exceptional potential. Members not only advance their Taekwondo skills but receive training in real-world leadership, management, ethical decision-making, and emotional intelligence — preparing them to become the next generation of community leaders.