Our Instructors
Grandmaster Yong Woo Kim
9th Dan Black Belt, Chundukwan Taekwondo
8th Dan Blackbelt World Takewando
Grandmaster Kim was born and raised in Korea and moved to the United States in 1979. He began studying Taekwondo at the age of 12 and quickly distinguished himself, earning his Fourth Dan black belt while serving as a Taekwondo instructor in the Korean Army.
After arriving in the United States, Grandmaster Kim competed for several years in full-contact tournaments sponsored by the Professional Karate Association (PKA). He achieved numerous victories, often winning by first-round knockout, and earned the title of Colorado State Welterweight Champion in 1981.
In 1980, he opened his first Taekwondo school in partnership. In 1984, he relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, where he founded the first dojang of his own school, Kim’s Academy.
Grandmaster Kim holds a Ninth Dan black belt and has won numerous awards and tournament titles throughout his career. He also served as the Utah State Taekwondo President, further contributing to the growth of martial arts in the region. Despite his impressive accomplishments, Grandmaster Kim says his greatest satisfaction comes from seeing his students grow, succeed, and go on to earn achievements of their own.
Master J. Godfrey
4th Dan Black Belt, Taekwondo (World Style)
4th Dan Black Belt, Taekwondo (International style)
Master Godfrey began training in Taekwondo at the age of 9 and earned his black belt under Grandmaster Kim. He has a deep passion for martial arts and enjoys studying martial arts videos, constantly exploring new techniques and innovative training methods.
Dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich tradition of Taekwondo, Master Godfrey is passionate about passing his knowledge on to his Taekwondo family, and YouTube community, inspiring the next generation of martial artists.
Master Brandon Williams
4th Dan Black Belt, Taekwondo (World Style)
4th Dan Black Belt, Hapkido
1st Dan Black Belt, Haidong Gumdo
Brandon Williams grew up in a military family, living throughout the United States and Europe. He began training in martial arts at the age of five and later moved to Utah at age nine. At 15, his interest in martial arts truly took off, leading him to search for the right studio to continue his training.
After discovering Kim’s Academy and meeting Grandmaster Kim, Brandon eagerly enrolled and committed himself to his martial arts journey. He has since competed in multiple tournaments and earned first place in a Utah State Championship, demonstrating dedication, discipline, and competitive excellence.
Aunders Godfrey
1st Dan Black Belt, Taekwondo
Black belt Jr. Instructor Aunders Godfrey
Aunders began studying Taekwondo at the age of five, and now is a Jr. Black Belt Instructor. He enjoys teaching both children and adults, helping students improve their martial arts skills, confidence, and discipline.
In addition to Taekwondo, Aunders loves Soccer, bringing balance and enthusiasm to both his training and teaching.
