A Lifetime of Dedication: Master Saidi’s Promotion to 8th Dahn

For more than 45 years, Master Seyd Saidi has dedicated his life to martial arts—not just as a practitioner but as a mentor, a leader, and an unwavering source of inspiration for his students. This year, his journey reached an historic milestone as he was promoted to the rank of 8th Dahn by the World Kuk Sool Association, earning the distinguished title of Suhn Im Kwahn Jahng Nim.

Master Saidi, the Chief Instructor at Kuk Sool Won of Dublin, is now one of less than twenty martial artists worldwide to hold the rank of 8th Dahn, making this promotion even more significant. Announced by Grandmaster In Hyuk Suh in Texas last week, this honor is a testament to his decades of dedication, discipline, and commitment to preserving the traditional Korean martial art.

Reflecting on the promotion, Master Saidi shared, “I am extremely honored to be recognized at this level. It has been a challenging but rewarding journey to attain this rank, and I will always value this achievement. Kuk Sool Won has shaped my life, and I am proud to continue sharing its teachings with my students.”

A Legacy of Teaching and Inspiration

Beyond his personal achievements, Master Saidi’s true passion lies in teaching and mentoring. For over three decades, he has shaped the lives of students at Kuk Sool Won of Dublin, guiding them not only in martial arts techniques but in discipline, perseverance, and respect—core values that extend far beyond the training mat.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person training was no longer possible, Master Saidi led his school with resilience, adapting to online instruction to ensure that students could continue their practice. He even organized drive-through Promotion Days, allowing students to receive their new belt ranks in a safe yet celebratory way.

“The past few years have tested us all,” he said. “But as martial artists, we learn to adapt, grow, and overcome challenges. Seeing my students stay committed despite the obstacles only reinforces why I do this work.”

A School Rooted in Excellence

Kuk Sool Won of Dublin has long been recognized as one of California’s top martial arts schools, consistently ranking among the best at annual tournaments. Under Master Saidi’s leadership, the school has not only produced skilled martial artists but a tight-knit community of students and families who support each other inside and outside the dojang.

His students, both past and present, describe him as a teacher who leads by example—someone who challenges them to push beyond their limits while also ensuring they feel supported in their journeys.

This year the school marks its 35th anniversary in Dublin, California.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

At its heart, Kuk Sool Won is more than just a martial art—it is a tradition, a philosophy, and a way of life. Masters like Seyd Saidi play a critical role in ensuring that its legacy endures, passing down knowledge with the same honor, discipline, and authenticity that has defined it for generations. Maintaining the connection with the country of origin for this traditional martial art, the World Kuk Sool Association recently organized a masters training and cultural visit to Korea.

As Master Saidi celebrates his school’s anniversary this latest milestone is not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the impact he has made on so many lives. His journey serves as an inspiration—not only to those who train under him but to anyone striving to reach their fullest potential.

In his own words: “Martial arts is a lifelong journey. Every challenge, every setback, and every victory shapes who we become. I am grateful for this path and honored to walk it with my students.”