Unity of attack and defense
In kumdo, the principle that attack and defense proceed in a close, unbroken relationship: defensive technique is contained within attacking, and attacking technique within waiting.
How to say it
- Korean
- 공방일치gongbang ilchi
- Spanish
- Ataque y defensa unidos
- English
- Unity of attack and defense
- Japanese
- 攻防一致こうぼういっちkōbō itchi
Gongbang ilchi (공방일치) is a kumdo term meaning "unity of attack and defense".
The glossary of the Korea Kumdo Association (대한검도회) defines it as attack and defense proceeding in a close relationship without interruption. It explains that defensive technique (방어기) is included within the act of attacking (거는 것), and that attacking technique is included within the act of waiting (기다리는 것).
Another Korean source puts it this way: someone who applies a technique to the opponent already carries a defense within it, and someone who defends is always ready to apply a technique.
A Japanese kendo source adds that offense and defense must both be contained in the stance. It criticizes modern kendo, which should aim for this principle, for not emphasizing it enough.
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