Lyon Haidong Gumdo, a Korean sword club based in Lyon, France, is actively working to broaden participation in the traditional martial art, with a particular focus on gender parity. This commitment is highlighted by a special seminar scheduled for Sunday, March 29th, at the Maison du Judo in Lyon’s 3rd district, dedicated to initiation and practice led exclusively by women experts in various martial arts. The event underscores a deliberate strategy to diversify the club’s membership and challenge traditional perceptions of who can excel in Haidong Gumdo.
Haidong Gumdo, often described as the art of the Korean sword, has a rich history rooted in the military traditions of the Joseon Dynasty. Unlike some martial arts focused solely on combat, Haidong Gumdo emphasizes both physical technique and mental discipline, incorporating elements of philosophy and etiquette. Lyon Haidong Gumdo has been practicing the art in the Lyon area since 2011, with locations in Lyon 4 (gymnase de la Ficelle), Lyon 2 (Gymnase Bayard), and Villeurbanne (La MIETE), according to information on HelloAsso.
A Seminar Focused on Inclusivity
The upcoming seminar on March 29th, running from 10 a.m. To 5 p.m., is a direct reflection of the club’s “diversity policy.” The initiative aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment for women to explore and engage with Haidong Gumdo. By featuring instruction from female martial arts experts, the club hopes to dismantle barriers and encourage greater female participation. The event will offer introductory sessions and practice opportunities for individuals of all skill levels.
Lyon Haidong Gumdo isn’t limiting its outreach to this single event. The club actively participates in regional festivals and events to showcase the art and offer introductory sessions. For example, they were scheduled to participate in the Nuit des Arts Martiaux de Pontcharra on Saturday, March 21st, at the Coléo in Pontcharra, as detailed on kickboxing-gresivaudan.fr. They also previously participated in the Japan Touch festival in Lyon Eurexpo in November 2025, and the Hashtag Festival in Bourg en Bresse in October 2025, offering demonstrations and initiation sessions.
Beyond Demonstrations: Building a Community
The club’s presence at events like Yggdrasil, held on March 7th and 8th, 2026, at Eurexpo Lyon Chassieu, isn’t just about showcasing impressive sword techniques. It’s about building a community and fostering a deeper understanding of Korean culture. Demonstrations often include traditional elements like dance with swords, choreographed combats, and even the dramatic extinguishing of candles with a blade, as noted on lyon-sabre.fr. These performances are designed to captivate audiences and spark interest in the art form.
The club’s commitment extends to offering regular courses in multiple locations throughout the Lyon area. This accessibility is crucial for attracting a diverse range of students. Lyon Haidong Gumdo’s Facebook page, Lyon Haidong Gumdo sabre coréen, serves as a central hub for information about classes, events, and club activities.
Looking Ahead
Following the March 29th seminar, Lyon Haidong Gumdo has another event on the horizon: a seminar on the Arts Martiaux au Féminin on Sunday, March 29th. This event will provide an opportunity to learn from experts in six different martial arts. The club’s continued participation in regional events and its dedication to inclusivity suggest a long-term vision for growth and diversification. The club’s efforts to promote parity in Haidong Gumdo are not merely about numbers; they are about enriching the art form with diverse perspectives and fostering a more inclusive martial arts community.
For those interested in learning more about Lyon Haidong Gumdo, or participating in future events, information can be found on their website, lyon-sabre.fr. The club encourages anyone curious about the art of the Korean sword to reach out and explore the possibilities.
What do you think about Lyon Haidong Gumdo’s approach to inclusivity? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with anyone who might be interested in learning more about this fascinating martial art.
