Korean knives are a sub-division of Korean sword

Korean sword

For much of Korea's history, swords were created for an individual user; thus, most Korean swords were different and did not follow a set standard model....

s in that both have been used or are used for martial arts

Martial arts

Martial arts are extensive systems of codified practices and traditions of combat, practiced for a variety of reasons, including self-defense, competition, physical health and fitness, as well as mental and spiritual development....

 purposes, and as well in the martial arts. This article gives a brief introduction to this interesting field within the greater sphere of Korean martial arts

Korean martial arts

Korean martial arts are the martial arts that originated from Korea. Some well known Korean martial arts are hapkido, kuk sool won, and taekwondo. There has also been a revival of Korean sword arts as well as knife fighting and archery...

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Korean knife fighting

If one watches Korean dramas depicting the ancient times, chances are knives will be used. Usually, assassins and pirates used it to kill government officials or immobolize guards.

Korean knives were either thrown at the target, or the assailant would creep up behind the guard and slice his throat.

Types of knives

• Dan Geom (Small Knife) (단검)
• Bi Su (Hidden Knife, commonly used by assassins) (비수)also used for combat in Hapkido
• Jang Do (Small knife used for self-defense, usually carried by women) (장도)

Standard reference

• Korean Knife Gallery website, shows as well comparative western edged weapons

External links

• Korean knife museum