About Clemson Martial Arts
Korean martial arts combines physical fitness with discipline, mental acuity and leadership development. Our goal is to bring this discipline into the Clemson and surrounding community. We provide a safe and welcoming environment for the whole family to train and grow!

Founded in 2009 as Kuk Sool Won of Clemson, clemson martial arts has grown to be the largest martial arts school in the Upstate area.

United Mirae Kuk Sool
Clemson Martial Arts is a member school of United Mirae Kuk Sool.
Compare and Conquer: The Unique Edge of Kuk Sool
- Kuk Sool vs. Karate: While karate emphasizes striking and powerful punches, Kuk Sool incorporates a broader range of techniques, including joint locks and throws, providing a more comprehensive self-defense system.
- Kuk Sool vs. Taekwondo: Taekwondo is renowned for its high, fast kicks and dynamic footwork. In contrast, Kuk Sool offers a balanced approach that includes both striking and grappling techniques, enhancing overall versatility.
- Kuk Sool vs. Jiu-Jitsu: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses primarily on ground fighting and submissions. Kuk Sool complements this with stand-up techniques and weapon training, giving practitioners a well-rounded skill set for all combat scenarios.
- Kuk Sool vs. Krav Maga: Krav Maga is designed for real-world self-defense situations, focusing on efficiency. Kuk Sool, while also effective for self-defense, embraces the artistic and traditional aspects of martial arts, making it a holistic practice that emphasizes both mind and body.
- Kuk Sool vs. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): MMA combines various martial arts disciplines for competitive fighting. Kuk Sool, on the other hand, prioritizes tradition and personal growth, offering a different path for those seeking to enrich their martial arts journey.
- Kuk Sool vs. Hapkido: Hapkido is known for its circular motion and self-defense techniques, emphasizing joint locks and pressure points. While both Kuk Sool and Hapkido share a Korean heritage, Kuk Sool offers a wider range of forms and weapon training, allowing practitioners to cultivate a diverse skill set that bridges traditional martial arts and practical self-defense.
Our Instructors

Sarah Gordinier
PKJN (5th Degree Master) Sarah is an owner and instructor for Clemson Martial Arts.

Toran Gordinier
Sa Bu Nim (4th Degree) Toran is an owner and instructor for Clemson Martial Arts.
All of Clemson Martial Arts’s main instructors are American Red Cross First Aid, CPR and AED trained. Our main instructors also pass a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) background check. Our goal is to provide you with top notch martial arts instruction from trained personnel that are focused on your success!

Hayden Rogers
Hayden is an experienced instructor with Clemson Martial Arts and was recently promoted to the rank of Pu Sa Bum Nim (3rd Degree Black Belt)!

Brock Miller
Brock Miller is an assistant Kuk Sool instructor at Clemson Martial Arts.

Omari Mayfield
Omari Mayfield is an assistant Kuk Sool instructor at Clemson Martial Arts.