IBMA Kyokushin Kai Affiliation Guide
IBMA Kyokushin Kai respects the history and spirit of Kyokushin Karate. We study its techniques and training systems and work to pass them on to future generations.
The affiliation system is not intended to bring all organizations and dojos under one structure. It is a framework for cooperation while respecting each organization’s history and independence.
We value safe Budo instruction, instructional ethics, technical research, and instructor development. We also encourage mutual cooperation through domestic and international exchange.
About the Affiliation System
IBMA Kyokushin Kai respects the independence of each organization and dojo. Affiliation does not require an organization to adopt the Masuda Dojo system.
Organization names, dojo names, and instructional policies may generally be maintained. At the same time, common standards for safety and Budo ethics are important.
Affiliation Categories
Affiliated Organization
This category is intended for organizations with multiple dojos or training locations. It also applies to organizations with an established administrative structure.
Affiliated Dojo
This category is based on a single dojo or training location. Newly established and smaller dojos may also apply.
There is no superior-subordinate relationship between an Affiliated Organization and an Affiliated Dojo. The category is determined by organizational structure and activities.
Independence After Affiliation
After affiliation, the following matters generally remain under the independent management of each organization or dojo.
- Organization or dojo name
- History and past activities
- Representative and organizational structure
- Instructional policies
- Training content and training system
- Kyu rank system
- Independent instructor system
- Membership system and fees
- Approach to competition
- Independent local activities
However, the name and logo of IBMA Kyokushin Kai are subject to usage rules. Certified Dan Ranks and authority to award dan ranks are also governed separately.
Main Requirements for Affiliation
The following matters are among the principal points considered when reviewing an affiliation application.
- Understanding the philosophy and purpose of IBMA Kyokushin Kai
- Respecting the history, spirit, and techniques of Kyokushin Karate
- Having a clearly identified representative and contact person
- Maintaining an appropriate instructional structure
- Maintaining appropriate safety management
- Respecting Budo instructional ethics
- Following the affiliation regulations and related rules
- Having no ties with antisocial or criminal organizations
IBMA Membership Requirements
Affiliation with IBMA Kyokushin Kai and individual membership in IBMA are separate systems. However, a minimum IBMA membership base is required for affiliation.
Affiliated Organization
An Affiliated Organization shall, in principle, maintain the following IBMA membership base.
- At least 5 IBMA General Members
- At least 1 IBMA Regular Member
An Affiliated Organization is expected to have an established organizational base. It must also maintain a structure for continuing cooperation with IBMA.
Affiliated Dojo
An Affiliated Dojo shall, in principle, maintain the following IBMA membership base.
- At least 5 IBMA General Members
Registration of an IBMA Regular Member is not a mandatory condition for an Affiliated Dojo. Special circumstances involving a newly established dojo may be discussed individually.
Individual IBMA membership is based on each person’s own decision. An organization or dojo does not automatically confer IBMA membership on its members.
Certified Instructors
An Affiliated Organization or Affiliated Dojo should, in principle, have at least one IBMA Kyokushin Kai Certified Instructor. Holding this qualification at the time of application is not mandatory.
After affiliation, instructors may receive training and guidance toward qualification. As a general guideline, a Certified Instructor should be developed or placed within two years.
Special circumstances may be handled through individual consultation. Expiration of this period alone does not automatically terminate affiliation.
Certified Instructor status is not intended to standardize every dojo’s techniques. It confirms understanding of IBMA Kyokushin Kai principles, safety, ethics, and cooperative responsibilities.
Certified Dan Ranks
Holding an IBMA Kyokushin Kai Certified Dan Rank is not a mandatory condition for affiliation. Opportunities for training and examination may be provided to those who wish to obtain one.
Dan ranks awarded by organizations before affiliation are also respected. They remain ranks based on the history and system of the issuing organization.
Authority to Award Dan Ranks
Affiliation alone does not grant authority to award dan ranks in the name of IBMA Kyokushin Kai. An independent dan rank system and the IBMA Kyokushin Kai dan rank system are separate.
Organizations seeking authority to award IBMA Kyokushin Kai dan ranks are reviewed separately. The representative’s rank, instructional experience, and examination structure are considered.
The organization’s history, size, minimum training periods, and age requirements may also be reviewed. Individual limits on dan rank authority may be established where appropriate.
Affiliation Process
- Review the Affiliation Guide and Regulations.
- Use the inquiry page if consultation is needed.
- Confirm the required IBMA membership registrations.
- Submit the online affiliation application.
- The application is reviewed.
- Additional documents or an interview may be requested.
- After approval, complete the required registration procedures.
There is no uniform provisional affiliation period. Affiliation may be approved when the application is considered appropriate.
Some applicants may need time to develop their instructional structure. In such cases, the necessary arrangements may be completed after affiliation.
Names and Logos
Organizations and dojos may continue using their existing names after affiliation. When indicating affiliation, an appropriate affiliation designation should be used.
- ABC Organization — IBMA Kyokushin Kai Affiliated Organization
- ABC Dojo — IBMA Kyokushin Kai Affiliated Dojo
The IBMA Kyokushin Kai logo and emblem are subject to usage rules. Their use must follow the applicable approval procedures.
Tournaments, Seminars, and Other Activities
Affiliated Organizations and Affiliated Dojos may conduct activities under their own names. They may independently organize tournaments, seminars, demonstrations, and other activities.
Prior approval is required for names that may be understood as official IBMA Kyokushin Kai events. Examples include “IBMA Kyokushin Kai Tournament” or similar titles.
Safety and Instructional Ethics
Affiliated Organizations and Affiliated Dojos are expected to provide safe Budo instruction. Respect for human dignity is also essential.
- Instruction appropriate to age and experience
- Prevention of dangerous training and excessive contact
- Use of appropriate protective equipment
- Appropriate response to accidents
- Prevention of harassment
- Prohibition of unnecessary violence, intimidation, and discrimination
Programs and Opportunities After Affiliation
After affiliation, the following programs and opportunities may be available depending on applicable requirements.
- Use of the Affiliated Organization or Affiliated Dojo designation
- Display of an affiliation certificate
- Introduction on the official website
- Application for Certified Instructor status
- Application for Certified Dan Ranks
- Technical seminars and instructor training
- Use of research and educational materials
- Online guidance programs
- Exchange among affiliated organizations and dojos
- International exchange and joint projects
These rights and opportunities are not automatically granted by affiliation alone. Separate conditions or approval may apply to individual programs.
Review After Affiliation
Registration information may be reviewed periodically after affiliation. Activities and instructional structures may also be confirmed when necessary.
If an organization temporarily fails to meet a requirement, its circumstances will first be reviewed. A reasonable improvement or preparation period may be provided where appropriate.
For Those Considering Affiliation
IBMA Kyokushin Kai does not seek to make every organization follow the same method. We respect the history, experience, techniques, and distinctive character of each organization and dojo.
Our common foundation is respect for Kyokushin Karate. On that basis, we seek relationships in which participants can learn from and cooperate with one another.
The affiliation system is not limited to large organizations. Smaller dojos and newer instructors may also participate.
Regulations and Application
Please review the Affiliation and Certification Regulations before applying. After confirming the requirements, use the online affiliation application.
The online application is the standard application method. If online submission is difficult, please contact the office.
A paper application may be provided individually when necessary. A public downloadable application form is not provided.
