🏹 Korea Ssaulabi Warriors – Traditional Martial Arts Demonstration in Buyeo

– Inheriting the Spirit of Baekje’s Loyalty: The Modern Succession of 24-Ban Martial Arts–

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In May 2025, a meaningful traditional martial arts demonstration was held at Buyeo, part of the Baekje Historic Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This event was co-organized by the Baekje Traditional Martial Arts Institute and the Korea 24-Ban Martial Arts Cultural Promotion Association, with support from Chungcheongnam-do Province and Buyeo County. The Korea Ssaulabi Warriors participated, reviving the loyalty and martial spirit of General Gyebaek and his Five-Thousand Loyal Troops in a modern context.

With full participation from members of the Martial Arts 24 Cultural Promotion Association, the performance went beyond a simple martial arts demonstration. It conveyed the unique warrior spirit and aesthetics of traditional Korean culture to both domestic and international visitors. For youth in particular, it provided a natural way to absorb the Baekje spirit of loyalty and national devotion.

This demonstration left a strong impression on visitors to Buyeo as an outstanding example of “K-Martial Arts Cultural Content.” Looking ahead, continuous efforts will be made to promote traditional martial arts in connection with regional cultural assets.

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🎎 Demonstration Program Order

1. Flag Performance – A grand opening symbolizing loyalty and military signals

2. Seven-Branched Sword Ritual Cutting – A ceremonial act performed with the iconic Baekje Chiljido sword

3. Woldo Demonstration – A crescent-shaped long sword expressing the dignity of the warrior

4. Spear Technique (Gi-chang) – A modern reenactment of cavalry spear combat

5. Gyesan Spirit Sword Dance – A disciplined sword dance honoring the spirit of General Gyebaek

6. Sparring (Gyeokgeom) – A duel reflecting the realism of battlefield combat

7. Swordsmanship (Geom-sul) – The harmony of basic sword techniques and refined skill

8. Archery (Gung-shi) – Continuing Baekje’s martial traditions through bowmanship

9. Combat Cutting – A live-cutting practice emphasizing the authenticity of martial arts

10. Curtain Call – Final salute and closing performance by the full cast