Confidence & Self-Belief
We help every student discover what they are truly capable of — building unshakeable confidence from the inside out.
Our Mission & Philosophy
Inspiring and empowering every student to reach their full potential through martial arts.
Old Bethpage, NY
More Than Martial Arts — A Life System
At YK Taekwondo Academy, we believe martial arts is the most powerful self-improvement system available. Founded with a mission to inspire and empower every student, we offer a training environment where people of all ages — from 3 to 94 — can grow stronger in body, mind, and character.
What sets us apart is our individual-paced approach. Your progress is always measured against your own personal best — never against your peers. This creates genuine confidence and sustainable growth, whether you are a child learning focus for the first time or an adult building resilience for the demands of modern life.
From our Kids Martial Arts classes to our Family programs, every student at YK Taekwondo Academy receives expert instruction, personal encouragement, and a supportive community that celebrates every milestone on their journey.
4
Programs
3+
Age to Join
NY
Old Bethpage
FREE
Trial Classes
Head Instructor & Founder
Master Youngmin Kim
World Taekwondo International Referee | Masters in Sports Management
I'm Master Youngmin Kim, Founder and Head Instructor of YK Taekwondo Academy. My Taekwondo journey began with a full scholarship at Joongbu University in Korea, and it has taken me to competition floors, referee panels, and coaching benches across the world.
As a World Taekwondo Federation International Referee (Level 2 Poomsae & Sparring), I have officiated at the World Grand Prix in Paris, Wuxi Grand Prix in China, US Open, Costa Rica Open, Mexico Open, and Kim Unyong Cup G1. As Sparring Head Coach of Team Elite National Team, I have trained and coached athletes across CA, AZ, TX, NY, and NJ for local, state, national, and international competitions.
But beyond the titles, what drives me every day is watching students transform. I believe martial arts is not just a sport — it is a complete system for developing the mind, body, and character. Whether you are a child just beginning your journey or an adult looking to build real confidence and self-defense skills, I will meet you exactly where you are.
At YK Taekwondo Academy, every student progresses at their own pace — measured only against their personal best. There is no comparison to others, no pressure to keep up. Just consistent growth, real encouragement, and a community that celebrates every step forward.
I also bring experience in college admissions counseling and mentorship for student-athletes, and I currently coach the Sports Taekwondo Club at New York University. I am proud to serve the Old Bethpage and Long Island community, and I look forward to welcoming you to the YK Taekwondo Academy family.
Professional Credentials
World Taekwondo Federation International Referee (Level 2 Poomsae & Sparring)
World Grand Prix Referee — Paris 2020 & Wuxi, China 2019
Team Elite National Team — Sparring Head Coach (2016–Present)
KTA in USA — USA Team Coach, 100th Korea National Sports Festival (2019)
NYU Sports Taekwondo Club Coach (2025–Present)
Owner — Taekwondo All In, Ridgewood NJ (2011–2019)
Masters in Sports Management — Brooklyn College (Dean's List)
Bachelor's Degree — Joongbu University, Korea (Full Taekwondo Scholarship)
Best Referee — Kim Unyong Cup G1, Korea 2017
Best Male Performance — International Referee Seminar, Mexico 2018
Bilingual: English & Korean
Our Core Values
What We Stand For
Discipline & Focus
Our training instills the mental focus and self-discipline that lead to success in school, work, and life.
Community & Family
YK Taekwondo Academy is a family. Every student is welcomed, supported, and celebrated as part of our Long Island community.
Start Today
Experience the YK Taekwondo Academy Difference
Join us for two free trial classes and discover why families across Old Bethpage and Long Island choose YK Taekwondo Academy.
Knowledge Base
Your Questions,
Answered
New to martial arts? Here is everything you need to know about starting your journey with us.
General Questions
What age groups do you offer classes for?
We welcome students of all ages! Our Kids Martial Arts program starts at age 3, our Adult Martial Arts program is for ages 13 and up, and our Family Martial Arts program is open to all ages so the whole family can train together.
Do I need any prior experience to join?
Absolutely not. Every student begins somewhere, and our instructors are skilled at meeting you exactly where you are. Whether you have never thrown a kick or have years of experience, you will feel right at home at YK Taekwondo Academy.
How is YK Taekwondo Academy different from other schools?
At YK Taekwondo Academy, we believe martial arts is the best self-improvement system in the world. Our training is individual-paced — your progress is measured against your personal best, not your peers. This approach builds genuine confidence and lasting results for students from age 3 to 94.
What should I bring to my first class?
Just bring comfortable athletic wear and a positive attitude. Once you decide to continue, we will help you get set up with the right uniform and equipment.
How often should I train to see results?
We recommend training at least twice per week for consistent progress. Many students find that regular training quickly becomes the highlight of their week — both for the physical results and the community.
Do you offer a free trial?
Yes! We offer 2 weeks of free trial classes for new students. It is the best way to experience our community, our teaching style, and the YK Taekwondo Academy difference firsthand — with no commitment required.
Do you offer a summer camp program?
Yes! Our Summer Camp runs Monday through Friday, 4 hours per day. It combines martial arts training with team-building games and fun activities for children ages 6 and up — a great way to keep kids active and engaged all summer long.