Introduction to Kyukjukse

Kyukjukse refers to the offensive or attack posture in Jedok Geom (Korean Joseon Dynasty sword). This foundational stance has five variants, though this lesson focuses on the two primary forms: Hyunjwa Kyukjukse (left offensive posture) and Hyunwoo Kyukjukse (right offensive posture).

Identifying Left and Right Offensive Postures

The distinction between left and right offensive postures is determined by foot placement. If the left foot is forward, the practitioner assumes the left offensive posture; if the right foot is forward, the right offensive posture is assumed.

The Seven Lines of Attack

All sword strikes follow one of seven fundamental attack trajectories: vertical downward cut, downward cuts to left and right, horizontal cuts to left and right, and rising cuts to left and right. These lines establish the biomechanical framework for all offensive movements within the form.

Why Only Three Lines Are Used in Jedok Geom

Jedok Geom utilizes only three of the seven lines: vertical downward cut, downward cut to the left, and rising cut to the left. This selection reflects optimal body mechanics and stance efficiency rather than technical limitation.

Eliminating the Downward Cut to the Right

From right long stance, the downward cut to the right generates minimal power because core engagement and hip rotation work against the footwork. Practitioners should instead transition to left long stance to execute this cut effectively with full body mechanics.

Horizontal Cuts and Stance Relationship

Horizontal cuts are optimally performed from a front-facing horse stance to maximize hip rotation. When executed from right long stance with the right foot forward, the horizontal cut biomechanically resembles a flattened rising cut, making the two interchangeable in form and mechanics.

Outside vs. Cross-Body Rising Cuts

Two rising cut variations exist: outside-body (rising cut to the left) and cross-body (rising cut to the right). When alternating cuts with stepping, the outside-body rising cut is optimal because it flows directly from downward cuts without wasted transitional movement.

Cross-Body Rising Cuts in Stationary Position

When a practitioner is stationary and cannot step, the cross-body rising cut becomes valuable if an opening presents itself after a downward cut. Despite requiring transitional movement, practitioners should exploit the opportunity rather than abandon an effective strike.

Stance Preference for Rising Cuts

While traditional Korean practice performs the outside-body rising cut in right long stance, instructors may find right horse stance provides superior core engagement and hip rotation. Practitioners should experiment and adopt the stance that maximizes their power generation and technical comfort.

Jedok Geom Part 5 - Kyukjukse, Basic Sword Strikes [jedok geom series]

Just a Bug

Coupe

2 min read·9 key moments·PT7M20S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kyukjukse
•Identifying Left and Right Offensive Postures
•The Seven Lines of Attack
•Why Only Three Lines Are Used in Jedok Geom

Welcome to the Jedok geom series where I break down the Admiral's sword form and show you the stances and my interpretation of them. I'm not an expert so feel free to disagree with my conclusions, these are just what I have found to work well for me. In today's episode we talk about the Kyukjukse, more specifically the Hyangjoa Kyukjukse and Hyangwoo Kyukjukse. These are the offensive posture to the left and right. In these stances we go through the basic sword strikes and when to use which one. Contents: Intro 0:00 Kyukjukse 0:15 Seven lines of attack 1:09 Hyangwoo Kyukjukse 1:46 Rising cuts 3:55 Here is my interpretation of the form. I have also transcribed the form as it is practised in Korea in more detail to hopefully make it more accessible to the English speaking community. Feel free to share this as you please, just give credit back to the channel. Document: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nEFk5Wr73bCi387Ybz-5wN0IoqslQVal/view?usp=sharing Turo quick chart: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jWvy7sjAml2iPmToY8Sc-2KeUguWtNRx/view?usp=sharing Swords: Tamahagane clay tempered byeolungeom 76cm blade length Always be aware of your surroundings and minimise harm to yourself, others and your environment. Never use weapons when intoxicated or upset or for any act of violence. Practise unfamiliar forms with a bokken before using a live blade If you would like to support the channel you can buy me a coffee here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/justabug Thanks to everyone who has supported the channel, your coffees are much appreciated! Check out my Instagram at just_a_bug_swordsman for more content. For messages and reaching out to the channel email me at [email protected]

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about coupe?

This video covers introduction to kyukjukse, identifying left and right offensive postures, the seven lines of attack. It provides detailed instruction from Just a Bug.

How long does it take to learn coupe?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.