Here in the US, we seem to be confused about the term sa bum nim & the English word master. I'm looking for clarity amongst my KMA brethren to better understand the Korean term SBN versus how the term master is used here in the US among KMA folks.
My understanding, correct me if I'm wrong on this.
1) SBN does not translate as master in Korean.
2) SBN only refers to the main teacher of a dojang: not just any BB who is 4th Dan or higher. (Based on the Kukkiwon requirement of being 4th Dan or higher to open a school: Your mileage may vary).
3) The owner of a dojang (often not the main teacher) would be the kwan jang nim.
4) SBN is a title of function, rather than rank.
In my nearly 30 years of training, I've never gotten a clear understanding of the term. My first instructor (a Korean) was a 5th Dan KKW. We called him Mr. Kim & SBN, but if someone asked "who is your master?" "Mr. Yun Kil Kim," was our reply. His business card even said "Mr. Yun Kil Kim, Master Instructor."
Certainly, one can call themselves whatever title they wish. I'm not calling anyone out on what they were told. I'm just trying to understand the translation of SBN.
I have other questions about this. But I'll start with getting a better understanding of this so far.
Thanks!
My understanding, correct me if I'm wrong on this.
1) SBN does not translate as master in Korean.
2) SBN only refers to the main teacher of a dojang: not just any BB who is 4th Dan or higher. (Based on the Kukkiwon requirement of being 4th Dan or higher to open a school: Your mileage may vary).
3) The owner of a dojang (often not the main teacher) would be the kwan jang nim.
4) SBN is a title of function, rather than rank.
In my nearly 30 years of training, I've never gotten a clear understanding of the term. My first instructor (a Korean) was a 5th Dan KKW. We called him Mr. Kim & SBN, but if someone asked "who is your master?" "Mr. Yun Kil Kim," was our reply. His business card even said "Mr. Yun Kil Kim, Master Instructor."
Certainly, one can call themselves whatever title they wish. I'm not calling anyone out on what they were told. I'm just trying to understand the translation of SBN.
I have other questions about this. But I'll start with getting a better understanding of this so far.
Thanks!