Today we’d like to introduce you to Jae Yeul LEE.
Hi Jae Yeul, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I spent my childhood in Korea, and after graduating from university, I was given an opportunity that changed the course of my life. A Taekwondo master invited me to Houston, and that is where my journey in the United States began. For nearly a decade, I taught at UMA Taekwondo and KMA Taekwondo, and those years laid the foundation for the dream I live today—opening Cypress Taekwondo.
From the very start, my heart was consumed with questions: How can I create a dojang that truly nurtures children? How can I make them feel loved and supported while learning Taekwondo? I carried these questions with me day and night. There were, of course, seasons of hardship. Like so many others, I faced tremendous challenges during COVID-19. Yet instead of giving up, I focused on what I could do in each moment, carefully preparing for the day the doors would open again. When restrictions were lifted, I was ready—and my dojang was able to thrive once more.
Today, the greatest joy I experience is seeing children transform—not just learning discipline and respect through Taekwondo, but also watching shy and timid students bloom into confident, smiling individuals. Those moments remind me why I chose this path. Teaching five classes a day is no small task, and there are times it is physically demanding. But every laugh, every bow, and every spark of confidence from my students fills me with energy.
As long as there are children who walk through my doors, seeking to learn and grow, I will continue to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to sharing Taekwondo—not just as a martial art, but as a way of life filled with respect, love, and joy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has certainly not always been smooth. Like many small business owners, I faced my share of challenges. One of the most difficult times was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overnight, classes stopped, and the future felt uncertain. It was a moment when I could have lost hope, but instead, I chose to focus on what I could control. I spent that time preparing step by step—planning, organizing, and finding new ways to keep our Taekwondo community connected.
Another challenge was simply learning how to run a school while also giving my best to every child who stepped onto the mat. There were nights when I worried endlessly about whether I was doing enough, whether I was providing the right balance of discipline and love. And of course, teaching multiple classes every day can be physically exhausting.
But in hindsight, those struggles shaped me. They taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of never losing sight of why I started. Every obstacle became an opportunity to grow stronger, both as an instructor and as a person.
As you know, we’re big fans of KT TAEKWONDO. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
KT Taekwondo is more than just a martial arts school—it is a place where children and families grow together in discipline, respect, and confidence. While we teach the traditional skills of Taekwondo, our mission goes far beyond physical training. We are deeply committed to developing the whole person, helping students build strong character, kindness, and perseverance both inside and outside the dojang.
What sets us apart is the way we combine tradition with heart. Every student is valued not only for their abilities but also for who they are as individuals. We take great pride in creating an environment where even the shyest and most reserved children can find their voice, gain confidence, and feel a true sense of belonging. Parents often share how they see remarkable changes at home and school—children showing more respect, becoming more responsible, and carrying themselves with greater self-assurance.
Another unique aspect of our school is how we preserve memories for families. Through our YouTube service, we record and share special moments—such as belt promotions, tournaments, and other events—so parents can relive and enjoy their child’s journey anytime. We believe these memories are priceless, and we are proud to provide families with a way to look back on their children’s growth, both in Taekwondo and in life.
Brand-wise, I am most proud that KT Taekwondo has become known as a place where children are not only trained in martial arts but also cared for like family. Our reputation has been built on love, consistency, and a deep commitment to our students’ growth.
What I would like readers to know is this: Taekwondo at Cypress is not just about kicks and punches. It is about building discipline, respect, and confidence that last a lifetime. We strive to be a positive force in our community, shaping the next generation to be strong, respectful, and compassionate leaders.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is training in Taekwondo with my friends in Korea. I still remember the sound of our kicks echoing in the dojang, the laughter we shared after class, and the sense of belonging that came from being part of that community. Those early experiences not only gave me discipline and confidence, but they also planted the seed for my lifelong passion. Looking back, it was more than just practice—it was the beginning of a journey that would eventually bring me all the way to the United States and inspire me to dedicate my life to teaching Taekwondo.
Pricing:
- $175/mon 6mon contract
- $195/mon 12mon contract
- $215 Mon to Mon
- $1053 6month (One time)
- $1785 12Month (One tiime)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kingtigercypress.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingtigercypress/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kingtigercypress
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/rSBF6id0HxE @kingtigercypress
Image Credits
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