The long spear was over 3 meters in length, used by both cavalry and infantry to suppress enemies from a distance. It was distinguished from the bamboo long spear (죽장창, Jukjangchang) by being called the wooden long spear (목장창, Mokjangchang). Joseon improved its design by referencing both Ming and Japanese systems.

Measuring over 4 meters, it was made by splitting bamboo and gluing it together with fish glue. Used in both Ming and Japan, records show that Joseon experimented with Japanese spears (yari) as well.

Originally a cavalry weapon derived from military command flags, the flag spear was about 2 meters long. It was later established as an independent military system.

A trident-shaped weapon, more for restraining enemy weapons or supporting firearms than thrusting. Over 1.5 meters long, Joseon continued refining its construction through comparisons with Ming techniques.

A cavalry skill involving the use of the spear on horseback. From early Joseon, it was regarded as an essential combat technique. The manual also records “cavalry duels” (騎槍交戰), where two riders clash with spears.

A spear-like weapon made from a whole bamboo stalk, retaining its branches, with blades and hooks at the end. It was used like a mobile palisade to block enemy approach. Due to its size, handling it required great strength.

Modeled after the Japanese nodachi, about 130 cm long and 1.7 kg in weight, it required two hands to wield. Considered the foundation of sword techniques, also called “Yonggeom” (용검, using the sword) or “Pyeonggeom” (평검, plain sword).

A martial art re-imported from Ming, where the original used double-edged swords, but Joseon adopted a single-edged saber. It also incorporated methods already practiced within Joseon.

Refers to the Japanese sword and its fencing techniques. Introduced by military instructor Kim Che-geon, who is believed to have learned it at Waegwan (Japanese trading post) or in Japan. Associated with the Shinkage-ryu lineage.

A paired practice where two people spar with Japanese swords (Waegum) or sabers (Yodo). Designed to simulate real combat; wooden swords (mokdo) were used for training.

Likely derived not from Ming Admiral Yi Ru-song himself, but from the spear and sword methods of his subordinate Luo Shang-zhi. The name “Admiral’s Sword” comes from records left by the Bonghwa Kim clan and became popularly used.

Joseon’s indigenous sword art. Though its exact origin is unclear, it was sometimes equated with the Yedo. Also called “Shingeom” (new sword), its name is linked to the legend of Silla’s Hwarang Hwang Chang.

A skill using a short sword in each hand. Closely related to the sword dance (geommu), but regarded as a practical fighting art rather than just performance. Depicted in paintings of soldiers during the Imjin War.

The use of twin swords on horseback. Although thought difficult to master, records describe it as highly formidable.

A long polearm with a crescent blade, about 180 cm long and 2 kg in weight. The Joseon version was less refined than Ming’s, and often seen more as a symbolic weapon of grandeur than for combat.

The mounted version of the Woldo, said to derive from Guan Yu’s “36 techniques” in Romance of the Three Kingdoms. It symbolized the valor of Guan Yu, revered as a military deity.

A massive sword over 2 meters long and 2.5 kg in weight, evolved from attaching a short blade to a staff weapon. Equivalent to Ming’s machete-spear or Japan’s naginata.

A round shield made of rattan, about 60 cm in diameter. Lightweight and durable, it could withstand arrows, shuriken, and even some bullets. To reduce its weakness to fire, it was lacquered.

Unarmed combat, the foundation of martial training without weapons. Though once considered akin to gymnastics, it was valued as essential for physical conditioning and practicing offense and defense.

A long wooden cudgel, originally a tool for handling fire but later adapted into a weapon. Evolved into a bladed form and eventually led to the Hyeopdo. Joseon soldiers, being taller, often wielded longer versions.

Consisting of a long stick connected by a chain to a shorter stick, it originated from the flail used in farming. Effective against enemies with shields.

The cavalry version of the flail. Shorter than the infantry version, usually with a single chain loop. Later evaluations suggested improvements based on Ming practices.

A horseback game striking a ball with a stick, similar to Western polo. Alongside chukguk (football), it was both a sport and a military drill, enhancing cavalry combat skills.

Horsemanship involving acrobatics and stunts on horseback, requiring agility like that of a monkey. Training could also be done with practice frames without a horse. Comparable to modern acrobatics but intended as military training.