Close
Limited Time & Availability
10:00
Online Exclusive Offer
View Our Schedule & Pricing Options

Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!

By opting into the web form above you are providing consent for International Martial Arts Center to send you periodic text messages. Standard rates may apply. You can reply HELP at anytime to learn more. You may opt-out anytime by replying STOP.
Christina Rachel Wang
via Google

love love LOVED. taking classes here was a highlight of my summer in nyc. teachers are super helpful and class was very accommodating for someone w no experience :)

Peter Chambertides
via Google

My son attends IMAC Taekwon-Do classes under the tutelage of Master Hahn. All of the teachers are excellent providing each student with one on one instruction in a well structured environment. My son eagerly looks forward to each new lesson and enjoys the camaraderie that Taekwon-Do, under their instruction, has engendered. During each class, the importance of the Tenets of Taekwon-Do, and their application, are taught and demonstrated. I highly recommend IMAC to any parent looking to expand their child’s horizon.

Dino Selita
via Google

Grand Master Hahn is the best. He is a wonderful person and has a intimate knowledge of Taekwondo and Hapkido, anyone that has ever had a interest in learning these styles will not be disappointed. More importantly its a great place to learn self disciple.

Natalie Krueger
via Google

Starting Taekwondo at IMAC has been the highlight of my year! The environment has been incredibly encouraging and supportive from both instructors and fellow students. Master Hahn is exceptionally knowledgeable and knows exactly how to help & push each student. The class is adaptable for all skill levels. I would absolutely recommend IMAC to anyone interested in Taekwondo!

Kay Castro
via Google

I am a past student of IMAC with Grandmaster Hahn. I had a wonderful experience learning taekwondo and hapkido. The teachers are knowledgeable, supportive, and skillful. I also enjoyed learning with and from my classmates. Sadly, I had to leave the dojang because of the pandemic which led to moving out of state. I often think about IMAC and the awesome experience I had — it’s also influenced me to learn taekwondo in my new state. I wish Grandmaster Hahn the best as well as the awesome students and other masters!

Francisco Carrillo
via Google

I started going to this school since last year October and I have no regrets. I’ve truly learned a lot about myself, how I learn and the best part is, the community. I can definitely promise, anyone that comes to this school, there is zero judgment and everyone is truly supportive, teachers and students alike. It really is a great joy to come to class and see how you as an individual progresses along with the your classmates.

Josh Banyasz
via Google

I have been attending classes at IMAC for about two years and I cannot recommend this school highly enough. Grandmaster Hahn lives up to the name and is eager to pass along his knowledge to his students. The other instructors are all very supportive and skilled as well. In the time I've been studying here I've seen a dramatic increase in my own strength, stamina, and flexibility. The days that I attend class are the highlights of my week and I look forward to training here for years to come.

Jonella Wong
via Google

I've been taking classes here for about 6 months now, and I can definitely say that my physicality has improved drastically! I feel more in tune with my body, and my stamina levels have heightened. Such a great community too! Coming to IMAC is definitely the highlight of my week!

Aubrey Lawton
via Google

Martial Art is a journey and a way of life that provides a lifelong reward. My experience training and learning from Grand Master Hahn has been one of best times of my many years in martial arts. And I can say with confidence that training at IMAC will give you an experience you will never regret.

Isobel Obrecht
via Google

Great instructors, interesting and engaging blend of Taekwondo/Hapkido. I love the way classes are built around respect for classic forms, self defense skills, and building flexibility/endurance. There is plenty of space and time to go at your own pace and the instructors and fellow students are patient, welcoming, and supportive. As a woman who has been practicing various martial arts for a long time before attending this school, I have often encountered people being condescending or overprotective, especially in schools dominated by men. This school does not have that problem and there is a real understanding that everyone is capable of fighting well, and everyone is deserving of respect.

I B
via Google

My daughter loves her classes. Feels very welcoming, positive and inclusive. Every kid seems thrilled to be there.

River Albo
via Google

I joined IMAC as an adult beginner, and I'm so glad I did. This school is made up of a community of supportive instructors and students, and I look forward to each class I attend. The adult classes instructed by Grandmaster Hahn helped me develop physical fitness, technique, self defense, and discipline. I highly recommend IMAC to anyone interested in taekwondo and self defense training.

Stephanie Hill
via Google

The instruction for children at IMAC is comprehensive, inclusive and organized. Kids may attend group thirty minute sessions 3x per week. Class size is always under 10 kids with 2 or sometimes 3 instructors teaching. All the instructors are patient but firm and do a great job keeping their students focused. Confidence building, agility and maintaining focus are all benefits of martial arts. We LOVE all of the instructors including Master Hahn the owner, Master William, Master Samson and Kasia. IMAC is definitely a hidden martial arts gem of in the Union Square area. It would be great to see their business grow further.

Ellie Aslanian
via Google

Taking taekwondo classes at IMAC is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! All of the wonderful instructors are supportive, kind, and hardworking. The classes are always engaging, and I always leave feeling energized. The other students in the classes are also encouraging and great to work with. So far, I have both learned and grown a lot. I’m not very athletic and had not taken any martial arts classes previously, but the classes at IMAC have been very educational and just the right amount of challenging. I cannot recommend it enough!

Benjamin Roy
via Google

My daughter attended IAMC for 5 years while we were in NYC. Under the guidance of Master Hahn and his team, she has not only learned the art of taekwondo but has also blossomed into a more self-confident individual. The school provides a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Master Hahn and his team went beyond physical techniques; they instilled core values like discipline, respect, and perseverance in each student. It has been an incredible journey for my daughter, filled with invaluable lessons and personal growth. I am grateful to Master Hahn and his team for their guidance and the positive impact they have had. I would strongly recommend IMAC to any parent seeking a supportive environment for their child to learn and grow.

Ezer Cheki
via Google

Great place to learn Taekwondo. Really enjoying the experience in the dojang. Coming in as an adult beginner can be intimidating but the instructors are great and super professional. Grandmaster Hahn is an inspiring martial artist. The art feels even more complete with Hapkido mixed in. The private lessons are a fantastic experience, very focused on proper form and there’s a lot of attention on the student’s individual goals and technique from both the instructor (Samson) and Grandmaster Hahn himself. I feel like I accomplish a lot in each session and am progressing faster than I imagined. Way faster than in group classes I tried elsewhere. Very happy to be a student there!

Sarah Hausmann
via Google

I have been coming here for several months now and absolutely love it! I had never done martial arts before, but had always wanted to try it, and the instructions have been great at breaking things down and making everything accessible. As you catch on, they will continue to challenge you with progressively harder skills which keeps things fun and interesting. Everyone is super friendly and accepting, so whatever your ability level is, I would highly recommend joining!

Eddy ABC
via Google

I am in the adult class. This is a great school, where you can learn hapkido and taekwondo. You will learn intricate techniques taught very simply, look forward in continuing training and move up in rank!

Ellie Aslanian
via Google

Taking taekwondo classes at IMAC is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! All of the wonderful instructors are supportive, kind, and hardworking. The classes are always engaging, and I always leave feeling energized. The other students in the classes are also encouraging and great to work with. So far, I have both learned and grown a lot. I’m not very athletic and had not taken any martial arts classes previously, but the classes at IMAC have been very educational and just the right amount of challenging. I cannot recommend it enough!

Ed Silva
via Google

I am in the adult class. This is a great school, where you can learn hapkido and taekwondo. You will learn intricate techniques taught very simply, look forward in continuing training and move up in rank!

tara butler
via Google

My five year old son has been taking classes at IMAC for almost a year and absolutely loves it. He looks forward to every session. He is thrilled when he learns new moves and practices them at home. Every staff member at the school is supportive and works with the students closely to ensure they make progress. Grandmaster Hahn is so zen and commands respects from all his students. He is a pleasure to work with. As a parent, I love the art because it really teaches my son discipline and respect in a very organic manner. Try the introductory classes you will be sure to love it!

Kim Parker
via Google

My daughter is on the autism spectrum...our experience with any kind of class has always been very hit or miss (as I’m sure a lot of special needs parents can relate to)...Master Hahn and Samson are INCREDIBLE with her. I literally am stunned at her level of focus and excitement about this training. The teachers somehow intuitively know how to work with her...I can’t really express my gratitude and relief and excitement to have found International Martial Arts Center. It has really changed our lives. She told me she feels “tranquil” after class...anyone with a child with anxiety or attention issues will know what a miracle of a statement this is!!

Yair Sovran
via Google

A great school with a great curriculum. Grand Master Hahn is an excellent instructor and the higher-belts are super helpful. Everyone is friendly and welcoming, and although we train hard, there's a great positive and supportive energy. I particularly like the Hapkido-based self-defense curriculum, which distinguishes this school from other Taekwondo schools. Highly recommended!

Kerry Bate
via Google

We could not ask for a better Martial Arts school for our 6 year old daughter! Over the past year, she has learned to focus better, support her fellow students, and work hard toward her goals. We are so proud of her achievements in taekwondo, but more importantly, she has learned to take pride in her own hard work. The instructors are incredibly patient and gentle with the kids, while holding them to a very high standard. The school offers a wonderful community of students and teachers, with many parents and children taking classes there together as a family. Master Hahn has a terrific team, and this school is an absolute NYC gem!

Ezer Cherki
via Google

Great place to learn Taekwondo. Really enjoying the experience in the dojang. Coming in as an adult beginner can be intimidating but the instructors are great and super professional. Grandmaster Hahn is an inspiring martial artist. The art feels even more complete with Hapkido mixed in. The private lessons are a fantastic experience, very focused on proper form and there’s a lot of attention on the student’s individual goals and technique from both the instructor (Samson) and Grandmaster Hahn himself. I feel like I accomplish a lot in each session and am progressing faster than I imagined. Way faster than in group classes I tried elsewhere. Very happy to be a student there!

Tara Butler
via Google

My five year old son has been taking classes at IMAC for almost a year and absolutely loves it. He looks forward to every session. He is thrilled when he learns new moves and practices them at home. Every staff member at the school is supportive and works with the students closely to ensure they make progress. Grandmaster Hahn is so zen and commands respects from all his students. He is a pleasure to work with. As a parent, I love the art because it really teaches my son discipline and respect in a very organic manner. Try the introductory classes you will be sure to love it!

David Philipe Gil
via Google

Best martial arts school I have ever went to. Classes are small enough to get individual attention and the curriculum includes Taekwondo, Hapkido and more. Learn at your own pace, and students here tend to be very humble and kind-hearted. Grand Master Hahn is the "real deal" as well -- a true master of the arts in mind, body and spirit.

Vanessa Sun
via Google

Great place to learn taekwondo. It's in a convenient location and the atmosphere is welcoming. The instructors are great for adults and kids alike. The people here truly make the experience and help build a sense of community. This dojang is dedicated to teaching traditional taekwondo but in a super fun way.

Damian Sullivan
via Google

A friendly, welcoming environment with great instructors who always listen and are willing to teach and make the training enjoyable!

Yasmin Ibrahim
via Google

Our daughter has been a student at Martial Arts Center for two years. We love the school. It is welcoming and she has learned so much. The instructors are wonderful and there is a high teacher student ratio. Taekwondo is very worthwhile for children in today’s world that is full of distractions. The school doesn’t just focus on the physical aspect of taekwondo but also the mental. They really try to model and explain the 5 tenets (self-control, integrity, perseverance, courtesy and indomitable spirit) of taekwondo for the students. This is one of the best sports for children and this is a great school.

Elizabeth Brondolo
via Google

A great place to learn Taekwondo! The Taekwondo techniques are challenging, but there are many helpful and very patient instructors who work with you. When we work together to learn new forms or combinations, it’s invigorating and exciting. Learning Taekwondo has definitely improved my flexibility and strength and helped me gain physical confidence. There is a really nice sense of community at this school. I look forward to the classes every week.

Kumbi 2012
via Google

Conveniently located in the Kips Bay section of Manhattan, the International Martial Arts Center (IMAC) provides instruction in both Taekwondo and Hapkido. Training at IMAC is both intensive and personal. Students are encouraged to achieve their personal best through constant practice and goal setting, and are consistently supported in their efforts at achieving their personal best by Grandmaster Hahn and their IMAC peers. As an IMAC student for approximately 6 years, I have found the experience of training in the martial arts of Taekwondo and Hapkido at IMAC to be challenging, educative and fun.

Eugene Park
via Google

My kids LOVE master Hahn and his team. They are extremely friendly and have taught my son and daughter discipline and focus while having a lot of fun. If you are looking for a great after school activity, IMAC is a great option.

Close
Summer Deal! Get started with an exclusive offer!
212-242-5759
International Martial Arts Center
New York Martial Arts & Fitness for All Ages!
International Martial Arts Center

Why International Martial Arts Center Is Different from Other Martial Arts Schools in New York City

July 25, 2026

Why International Martial Arts Center Is Different from Other Martial Arts Schools in New York City

If you’re searching for martial arts in NYC, Taekwondo in Manhattan, or self-defense classes in the East Village, you have probably discovered that there are many schools to choose from. At first glance, they may all seem similar. However, once you look beneath the surface, you’ll find that International Martial Arts Center (IMAC) offers something truly unique.

Since 1994, International Martial Arts Center has been dedicated to preserving the integrity of traditional martial arts while providing practical self-defense training for today’s world. What makes us different is our rare combination of Original ITF Taekwon-Do and Reality-Based Hapkido—two traditional martial arts that complement one another to create a complete system for lifelong learning.
Original ITF Taekwon-Do – Preserving the Art as It Was Created

One of the biggest differences between our school and most Taekwondo schools is the style we teach.
Approximately 90–95% of Taekwondo schools today teach World Taekwondo (WT), the Olympic sport version of Taekwondo. WT is an outstanding competitive sport that has produced incredible athletes and exciting Olympic competition.

However, as Taekwondo evolved into an Olympic sport, many techniques were naturally emphasized or deemphasized to fit competition rules.

At International Martial Arts Center, we proudly teach Original ITF Taekwon-Do, which preserves the broader curriculum developed during the early years of modern Taekwondo. Our goal is to teach Taekwondo as a complete martial art—not simply as a competition sport.

Students learn:
Powerful hand techniques
Dynamic kicking techniques
Traditional patterns (tuls)
Step sparring
Self-defense applications
Breaking techniques
Proper breathing
Balance and body mechanics
Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit
We believe martial arts should develop the whole person, not just prepare someone to compete in tournaments.

Traditional Patterns That Preserve Martial Arts History
Original ITF Taekwon-Do continues to practice the classic pattern system that has been passed down through generations of instructors.
Patterns are much more than memorized movements.
They teach:
Timing
Balance
Coordination
Proper power generation
Precision
Mental concentration
Breathing control

Every movement has purpose and meaning. They preserve the history and technical principles of traditional Taekwondo while helping students improve both physically and mentally.

Reality-Based Hapkido – A Rare Martial Art in Manhattan
Very few martial arts schools in Manhattan offer authentic Hapkido.

That makes International Martial Arts Center especially unique.
Hapkido is one of the most practical and sophisticated self-defense systems ever developed.

Rather than meeting force with force, Hapkido teaches students to redirect an opponent’s energy through timing, leverage, body positioning, and circular motion.
Students learn practical self-defense skills including:

Joint locks
Wrist escapes
Throws
Takedowns
Pressure-point concepts
Balance disruption

Practical defenses against common grabs and attacks
Because Hapkido relies on leverage and technique rather than strength alone, it can be an effective martial art for people of different ages, sizes, and physical abilities.

Two Martial Arts That Complement Each Other
Many schools teach only one martial art.

At International Martial Arts Center, students benefit from two systems that naturally complement one another.
Original ITF Taekwon-Do develops:
Powerful striking
Footwork
Distance control
Speed
Coordination
Discipline
Reality-Based Hapkido develops:
Close-range self-defense
Joint manipulation
Throws
Escapes
Balance control
Adaptability

Together, these arts provide students with a more complete martial arts education than either system alone.
More Than Kicks and Punches
At International Martial Arts Center, our mission has always been larger than teaching physical techniques.
Martial arts should improve every aspect of life.
Students gain:
Greater confidence
Improved focus
Better fitness
Stress relief
Emotional resilience
Respect for others
Self-discipline
Lifelong learning
Whether you’re a beginner or have previous martial arts experience, our goal is to help you become stronger—not only physically, but mentally and emotionally.

Experience Since 1994
For over 30 years, International Martial Arts Center has proudly served the East Village, Lower Manhattan, and the greater New York City community.

Thousands of students have trained with us to improve their fitness, develop practical self-defense skills, reduce stress, and experience authentic traditional martial arts in a welcoming environment.
Discover the Difference

If you’re looking for martial arts in NYC, traditional Taekwon-Do, ITF Taekwon-Do, Hapkido in Manhattan, or practical self-defense classes in the East Village, we invite you to experience the difference for yourself.

International Martial Arts Center is proud to preserve the traditions of Original ITF Taekwon-Do while teaching the practical effectiveness of Reality-Based Hapkido—a rare combination that offers students a complete martial arts education.

Since 1994, we have remained committed to preserving the art, respecting its traditions, and helping every student become calmer, stronger, more confident, and better prepared for life both inside and outside the training hall.
Best regards,
Master Hahn

SEO Keywords Naturally Included: Martial Arts NYC, Martial Arts Manhattan, East Village Martial Arts, Traditional Taekwon-Do, ITF Taekwon-Do, Taekwondo NYC, Hapkido NYC, Hapkido Manhattan, Self-Defense NYC, Self-Defense Manhattan, Kids Martial Arts NYC, Adult Martial Arts NYC, International Martial Arts Center, Traditional Martial Arts.

CALL US
SCHEDULE
Web Special
Skip to content