When O'Sensei Richard Kim came to the United States from Japan in 1959 he formed the Zen Bei Butoku-Kai. As time passed the organization was simply referred to as the Butoku-Kai. Sensei Sanford joined the Butoku-Kai in the mid '60's. He and all of our students maintained their membership with the Butoku-Kai until O'Sensei Kim passed away in November of 2001. When O'Sensei passed away a group of his senior students, including Sensei Sanford and Sensei Jemison from our dojo, pledged to stay together and carry on his teachings. They formed the Zen Bei Butoku-Kai as a nonprofit organization. They retained the crest that their Sensei had worn so proudly for so many years. Today the Zen Bei Butoku-Kai has members throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

Mission Statement:

The specific purpose of the Zen Bei Butoku-Kai is to advance the study of traditional Karate, T'ai Chi Chuan, Chi Gong, Aiki-Jujutsu and Budo, and to foster the growth of these martial arts taught by Master Richard Kim.

Vision Statement:

To endeavor to make the world a better place by upholding through teaching and practicing the spiritual and physical traditions of martial art training.

Strategic Objectives:

1. Provide leadership and direction to the Zen Bei Butoku-Kai membership.

2. Advance the study of traditional Karate, T'ai Chi, Chi Gong, Aiki-Jujutsu and Budo.

3. Foster the growth and expansion of the martial arts taught by Master Richard Kim.

4. Positively touch the lives of our members.

5. Serve the global community.

Guiding Principles:

Respect Tradition

Building Positive Spirit

Letting Go

Enhancing Collaboration

Inspiring Leadership

Assuming Responsibility

Affirming Diversity

Integrity In All Things