March 27, 2024

SE3233: Martial Arts in Southeast Asia and the Dynamic World of Kendo!

Today’s session in SE3233 saw students learning about Kendo, a Japanese martial art that has captivated Southeast Asia and the region’s communities since at least the 1950s (and possibly even earlier!). We explored the reasons behind its enduring popularity, discussing influences like movies (“Shogun” and “The Last Samurai”), music, and even anime.

But SE3233 goes beyond theory! Students weren’t just passive observers. Under the guidance of Mr. Peter Ong, sensei (teacher) of both the NUS Kendo Kai and Joushinkan kendo clubs, and his students, the class learned about the essential equipment – the shinai (bamboo sword) and bogu (armor). The session even included demonstrations of sparring techniques, followed by the thrilling opportunity for students to practice basic strikes with the shinai on each other and the instructors. They even donned the bogu themselves, experiencing firsthand what it feels to be a practitioner of Kendo.

This immersive experience wasn’t just about learning a martial art; it was about experiencing the rich culture and discipline that Kendo embodies. Students gained a deeper understanding of the appeal of Japanese martial arts in Southeast Asia, fostering a newfound appreciation for this dynamic tradition.

Please click here to see additional photos from the class event: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.905477068250100&type=3