About us

Our Philosophy

At Master Yang's Martial Arts Center, we are more than a martial arts school—we are a community dedicated to personal growth, excellence, and lifelong learning. Through high quality martial arts instruction, our students develop the physical skills, mental discipline, and character necessary to succeed both on and off the training floor. As the Capital Region's premier martial arts center, we are committed to helping every student reach their fullest potential.

Our students share a common desire to continually improve themselves. Whether they are children building confidence and focus, teens developing resilience and leadership skills, or adults pursuing fitness and self-defense, each member of our community is encouraged to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

Our instructors believe that true success comes from within. By helping students set meaningful goals and providing the guidance and support needed to achieve them, we foster self-motivation, accountability, and a growth-oriented mindset. This philosophy empowers students to become leaders not only in martial arts, but also in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.

At Master Yang's Martial Arts Center, earning a black belt represents far more than technical proficiency. It reflects a commitment to perseverance, integrity, respect, and continuous self-improvement. We take pride in developing strong martial artists, confident leaders, and individuals who carry the values of martial arts into every aspect of their lives.

About Our Owner

Grand Master Yang was born and raised in South Korea, where he began his martial arts journey in 1978. Throughout his years of training, he competed extensively in Taekwondo tournaments, earning recognition as a regional sparring champion and developing the skills and discipline that would define his lifelong commitment to martial arts. Training under the Chang Moo Kwan Federation, he advanced to the rank of 5th Degree Black Belt before continuing his education through the Kukkiwon, where he earned certifications as an International Referee, International Judge, and International Instructor. Today, he holds the distinguished rank of 9th Dan Black Belt recognized by the Chang Moo Kwan Federation.

Prior to immigrating to the United States in 1995, Grand Master Yang honorably served in the Republic of Korea Army as a Taekwondo instructor and also taught members of the U.S. military stationed in South Korea. During this time, he expanded his martial arts knowledge through the study of Gumdo and Judo.

After settling in New York, Grandmaster Yang, together with his wife, continued their mission of sharing martial arts with others and opened Master Yang's Martial Arts Center in Latham in 2000. For more than two decades, he has dedicated himself to developing students of all ages through traditional martial arts instruction, leadership development, and character education. His pursuit of lifelong learning has also led him to earn a Black Belt in Krav Maga under Sam Sade and a Blue Belt in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor David Adiv.

Today, his school now offers 4 martial arts programs: Taekwondo, Kummooyeh, Hapkido, and Krav Maga. To this day, Grand Master Yang remains committed to preserving the traditions of martial arts while empowering students to build confidence, discipline, and excellence in every aspect of their lives.