IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI respects the independence of each affiliated organization and dojo.
Affiliation does not make an organization a branch or subordinate body of the headquarters.
Each organization may retain its own history, identity, and distinctive characteristics.
Our common foundation is the preservation of Kyokushin Karate, safe instruction, and ethical leadership.
We also value research, exchange, cooperation, and mutual respect.
We cooperate where we share common ground while respecting our differences.
▶︎PDF:IBMA_KYOKUSHIN_KAI_Affiliation_Process_EN
1. Basic Concept of Affiliation
IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI does not seek to unify affiliated organizations under one structure.
Nor does it seek to absorb existing organizations or dojos.
Its purpose is to provide a framework for independent organizations to cooperate.
Each organization remains responsible for its own activities after affiliation.
IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI does not replace an organization’s existing system.
We seek cooperation where appropriate and opportunities to learn from one another.
2. Activities and Systems Available After Affiliation
Affiliated organizations and dojos may participate in activities conducted by IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI.
They may also use certain systems when the relevant requirements are met.
Some activities and systems have separate eligibility requirements.
Exchange Among Affiliated Organizations and Dojos
Affiliated organizations and dojos may build relationships with one another.
They may share knowledge about technique, instruction, and training.
This creates opportunities to learn from different experiences.
Seminars and Research Activities
Affiliated members may participate in seminars and study groups.
Joint training and research activities may also be conducted.
Eligibility may differ according to the activity.
Competitions and Related Events
Affiliated members may participate in competitions and related events.
Exchange events may also be organized.
Participation is subject to the rules of each event.
Research on Instruction, Safety, and Ethics
We study safer methods of martial arts instruction together.
Teaching ethics and Budo education are also important areas of study.
We seek to develop better training environments.
Official Instructor Certification
Those who meet the relevant requirements may apply for certification.
This includes the Certified Instructor system.
Certification is not granted automatically through affiliation.
Official Dan Rank and Dan Authorization
IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI also maintains an official dan system.
Separate standards apply to authorization to award dan ranks.
Experience and examination systems may be reviewed.
Representation of Affiliated Status
Approved organizations may identify themselves as affiliated.
The use of the IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI name and logo is regulated.
They must be used within the authorized scope.
3. Independence Is Maintained After Affiliation
Affiliated organizations and dojos retain their independence.
Their names, representatives, history, and identity may generally remain unchanged.
Respect for each organization’s existing foundation is a basic principle.
- Organization or dojo name
- Representative and organizational management
- History and identity
- Training content and teaching methods
- Membership fees and daily operations
- Independent kyu and dan systems
These matters generally remain under each organization’s own management.
IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI does not require uniformity in these areas.
The history and identity of each organization are respected.
However, standards apply when using the IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI name.
Separate requirements apply to official certification systems.
Independence and certification should therefore be understood separately.
4. Categories of Affiliation
There are two main categories of affiliation.
They are Affiliated Organization and Affiliated Dojo.
Neither category is superior to the other.
Affiliated Organization
This category generally applies to organizations with multiple dojos.
It may also apply to organizations with several activity locations.
The organization affiliates as a whole.
Affiliated Dojo
This category generally applies to a single dojo or training group.
The dojo affiliates as an independent organization.
Its existing identity and activities may continue.
5. What to Confirm Before Applying
Applicants should understand the principles of IBMA.
Commitment to safety, ethics, and mutual respect is also required.
Applicants must meet the applicable affiliation requirements.
Please confirm the required IBMA member registrations.
Requirements may apply to the number and category of members.
The latest Affiliation Regulations provide the details.
Please also confirm any applicable fees and procedures.
The system may be revised when necessary.
The regulations in effect at the time of application will apply.
6. Affiliation Process
STEP 1 — Review the Affiliation Information
Begin by reviewing the principles of affiliation.
Please understand how independence is maintained.
Also review the activities available after affiliation.
STEP 2 — Review the Affiliation Regulations
Check the requirements for affiliation.
Also review the rules concerning names and logos.
Required registrations and fees should also be confirmed.
STEP 3 — Confirm IBMA Membership Registration
Confirm the IBMA registrations required for affiliation.
Requirements may apply to member numbers and categories.
Please refer to the latest regulations.
STEP 4 — Submit an Affiliation Application
Submit the application through the designated form.
Provide information about your organization or dojo.
Representative information should also be provided.
STEP 5 — Review and Assessment
The headquarters will review the submitted information.
Additional documents may be requested if necessary.
An interview may also be conducted.
STEP 6 — Complete Procedures After Approval
After approval, complete the required procedures.
Applicable fees should be paid as instructed.
Affiliation begins after the required procedures are complete.
STEP 7 — Begin Activities as an Affiliate
Affiliated organizations may continue their existing activities.
They may also join IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI activities.
Separate requirements apply to specific certification systems.
7. Affiliation and Certification Are Separate Systems
Affiliation establishes a formal cooperative relationship.
Certification recognizes qualifications, ranks, or authority.
These systems are administered separately.
Affiliation alone does not grant Certified Instructor status.
Official dan rank is also not granted automatically.
Authority to conduct dan examinations is separate as well.
Each requires the appropriate application and review.
8. For Organizations Considering Affiliation
Please begin by reviewing the affiliation information.
You should also read the Affiliation Regulations.
Apply only after understanding the system.
IBMA KYOKUSHIN KAI does not require every organization to become the same.
We value cooperation while respecting different traditions and approaches.
Each organization may preserve its history and identity.
We seek to preserve the traditions of Kyokushin Karate.
We also study the role of Budo in modern society.
Together, we aim to pass its value to future generations.
For Organizations Considering Affiliation
Please review the detailed affiliation information and regulations first.
If you have questions, you may request a preliminary consultation.
After understanding the system, you may proceed to the application.
