Tak2

Black Heaven and Earth Technique (Hyunchunjigong): A legendary Ki circulation technique taught to Shi-Woon by his master. Goomoonryong remarked that he only taught this to Shi-Woon because it was the only Ki circulation technique he knew of strong enough to disperse all of the Ki given off by the One Moon Divine Dan.

Black Origin Threshold: A secret technique learned from his master Goomoonryong. It is a technique derived from the Black Heaven and Earth Technique. However unlike the Black Heaven and Earth this technique fuels it's power from emotions especially rage, because of this the user gains a strange form of Ki which causes the user to gain a huge power boost, a dark powerful intimidating aura, along with some sort of steam or smoke to come out of his or her mouth. Though this technique is very powerful it has a side effect, which makes the user's entire ki become reversed causing the user to lose himself in a frenzy of blood lust, because of this, the Black Origin Threshold is a forbidden technique. Despite it being forbidden the Black Origin Threshold has become a technique feared by the Murim. The only two living users of this technique are Shi-Woon and Goomonryong.

Chaotic Heavens Destruction Strike (Hon Cheon Meol Gyuk): It is the most powerful technique of the Black Heaven & Earth School. It belongs to the Rising Fist Arts and requires specific preparation for its execution.

Soul-Crushing Strike: An Inner Power technique in which the practitioner circulates Ki through his body and releases it through his fist at the same time he extends his hand. This technique requires a large reserve of Ki for extended use and the ability to synchronize the release of Ki with the movement of the body.

Lightning Strike: While his Ki-Center was broken Shi-Woon used the Soul-Crushing Strike without Ki circulation.

Walking Techniques: Techniques using the ankles to perform specialized steps. Shi-Woon witnessed each of these once and managed to replicate them the next day in battle.

Non-Ki Walking Techniques: While his Ki-Center was broken Shi-Woon used the walking techniques without Ki circulation.

Focus Stomp (Jinwongak): A kicking technique that is powerful enough to easily break through the bones of his opponents.[5] The practitioner uses one leg to stomp the ground. The technique is capable of literally crushing concrete and cutting through flesh and bone. Due to translation error, many think this is a new technique, however, it is clearly written in the raw version as 진원각 (Romanized as Jinwongak).

Nine Arts Style Edit

Phantom Kick: An aerial kick that involves twisting the body while in mid-air to land a powerful kick. This technique can be used as intended or when the opponent has a hold of the user's leg and is either throwing or holding them in place.

Cry of the Phoenix: A sound based technique that allows Shi-Woon to let out a sonic scream that is so powerful it can deafen those nearby and its force is so great that it can cause severe turbulence for a helicopter and shatter apart the surrounding structure.[12]

Sun-Woo StyleEdit

Main article: Sun-Woo Clan

Iron Wall Stance: A fighting stance of the Sun-Woo Clan, his left fist is held out front as a shield to ward off opponents. If an enemy shows an opening or takes a step closer, then the other fist is used like a hidden spear.

Artists' Society StyleEdit

Main article: Artists' Society

Outer Body Training Method (Hyun Hwan Shim Yun Gong): Learned from Elder Yae-Won of the Artists' Society School, it teaches martial arts in a deep state of meditation. The technique creates a mental image of a new body with Ki-circulating normally and fights with previous opponents in the deep mental meditation.

Abyssal Insight: A technique of the Outer Body Training Method. It allows Shi-Woon to memorize any technique that he has seen even once, regardless of the martial arts style, and make it his own.[6] Due to Shi-Woon's high observation skills, he can master new techniques much faster.[7]

Triple Blossom Meditation: A form of the Outer Body Training Method. During its use the user is in a state of mind that causes three flower blossoms to appear on top of his head.[8] This seems to be an enhanced form of the Outer Body Training Method as when Shi-Woon entered this stage he released an immense amount of Ki that greatly surprised Ha-Ill Gang, Jin-le Kwon, and Sera Kang along with replaying his spar with So-Chun Hyuk unlike the the original form that only recreates the previous opponents he fought with their strength at that time.

### DescriptionEdit

The person is composed by the Simgichehon which refers to four parts:

1. **Sim (Mind)**: The ability to think and generally in the mental process of the person.
2. **Gi (Breath)**: It is mainly known as Inner Energy (Ki) and it is the life force in all creation.
3. **Che (Body)**: The materials that make up the body including bones and muscle. In other words the physical structure of the body.
4. **Hon (Soul)**: or otherwise the spirit. It represents the will and determination to achieve something.

These four areas are tied together forming the person and they usually strengthen and weaken together.[1]

### Unbalanced ComponentEdit

The balance between the four components is what ties the person and a possible unbalanced component could result in the downfall of the person as a whole. This although mainly refers to the inferiority of one component in relation to the rest. Exception to this is the Gi or Ki which, until now, is equally dangerous whether it is superior or inferior to the rest of the components.

#### Sim (Mind)Edit

* **Inferior**: If the Sim is inferior to the other three opponents then the individual is unable to achieve the potential level of the body. This is due to the inability of the individual to absorb and examine information crucial for the individuals development.

* **Superior**: Superior Sim would simply result in the inability of the individual to reach the level that the mind can understand.

#### Gi (Breath)Edit

Unbalanced Gi in relation to the other three components is witnessed in the case of the Yin Body Type cases. The natural flow of the Ki is affected resulting in the disruption of the balance between the Ki and the other three components.

* **Inferior**: Inferior Ki results in the instability of the body and causes health problems. The result is the affected growth of the body and its weakened state due to lack of sufficient Ki circulating in the body.

* **Superior**: Superior Ki can cause the body's break down or even complete destruction of it resulting in death (see *Che (Body)* below).

#### Che (Body)Edit

The body is the vessel holding of the person's Ki. Hence, it is of utmost importance for the Gi and Che to be balanced.

* **Inferior**: If the body is inferior to the other three components and, mainly, inferior to the Ki amounts that are produced in it then the body is rendered unable to hold. The body, in its effort to match the level of Ki in it, it exceeds its limits resulting in it bursting whenever the person puts pressure on it. If the components are significantly unbalanced then the body can potential break down completely resulting even in death. [1]

* **Superior**: Superior Che would simply render Gi insufficient for the body's functioning leading to various health problems. One sucb example are the Yin Body Types as explained above.

#### Hon (Soul)Edit

Hon or Spirit is what determines whether the person has the courage and will to put effort in archiving the set goals.

* **Inferior**: If the spirit is weak then the rest of composition falls behind due to the person's lack of determination to put effort. For example, (in relation to Sim) no matter how intelligent an individual is, if he is not determined to put effort he will not achieve his goals.

* **Superior**: Superior Hon would only result in an individuals constant effort to develop further without satisfying outcome. The lack of equal Che could lead someone to put the body in constant danger by overexerting it.

As the strongest technique of arguably the strongest school in the entire Murim it is no surprise that it is both powerful and complicated. According to, Chun-Woo Han this technique is quite difficult. It combined all the teachings of the Black Heaven & Earth School.

### UsageEdit

There are three main steps in starting this technique. Not all of them are understood but here is the basic outline from Chun-Woo Han.

1. Gather the three different Ki flows and focus them into one area.
2. Take 3 steps back. This movement is due to it belonging to the Rising Fist Arts and provides a chance to execute an Iron Kick. They were explained as 3 " steps" with a unique pattern, probably related to the Black Heaven and Earth School's movement teachings.
3. Finally, begin executing the strike by entering the 12 Red Heavens Paths. At this point the user assumes a posture with their back turned toward their opponent and fists touching near the bellybutton. From this point on the user must factor the technique into the situation they are in and use it accordingly.
4. The next step is not elaborated on in Chun-Woo Han's explanation but it seems that after gathering, focusing, and preparing their Ki the user instantaneously leaps forward (by likely using a Walking Technique such as Jin) and brings their right fist forward while turning their torso to maximize the blows power.

Its strength is such that it creates a small shock wave upon impacting with its target and managed to tear open the side of a Black Origin Threshold user as well as maim one of his arms. [1]

## VariationsEdit

While the inner(Ki) portion of this technique is clearly defined and specific, the outer(Physical) part is much more suggestive and malleable.  It seems that either arm can be used for the strike.  The action of meeting both fists in the pre-exection pose is unnecessary as shown by Shi-Woon and Chun-Woo using it with only one arm.  As Chun-Woo explained, an Iron Kick can be used but is not necessary.  So far only Shi-Woon has used an Iron Kick.

### DescriptionEdit

The fights between Murim-ins are not always decided based on strength. It is important for them to used their minds. What this means is that a fighter attacks the opponent in a way to lead him/her into a trap. It is a series of feint attacks, not meant to hit the opponent, but to distract him in order to create a blind spot and take advantage of it. This will give the fighter the chance to use the real attack to decide the fight.

### AdvantagesEdit

Use of such mind games enables Murim-ins to defeat opponents stronger than themselves.

### WeaknessesEdit

There are two main limitations in the use of mind games. One is the ability of the user of these games to hide them and gap of power between the user and the opponent.

#### Skill in Mind GamesEdit

It is important to make sure that the opponent does not realize that one uses such methods otherwise it will be meaningless.

* **Case**: In the fight between Shi-Woon Yi and Yong-Hyun Yan, the later used the only weakness of the Ki-strikes in order to make Shi-Woon use up his Ki reserves and lose the fight. However, Shi-Woon realized and trapped him in his own mind games, pretending to strike the same way again but instead used the Focus Stomp.[1][2]

#### Power GapEdit

Also, if the gap of skill and strength between the opponents is too big then mind games will not be effective since the opponent will be fast enough to counter even if caught off-guard.

* **Case**: In the fight between Shi-Woon Yi and Ju Sang-Sik the later did not realize that Shi-Woon was trying to catch him off-guard in order to use the Chaotic Heavens Destruction Strike[3] but he was still able to evade the attack without much effort.[4]

Inner Energy or Ki is the energy within every human which is commonly used in the Murim world as the primary way of fighting. It is also referred to as "Breath" and "Life Force". People that learned how to control and use it created the world of Murim.

Ki

Simgichehon being explained to Shi-Woon.

SimgichehonEdit

Main article: Simgichehon

Simgichehon is the basic composition of a person.There are four parts to it:

Sim (Mind) is the ability to think. The use of the brain to send orders to the whole body.

Gi (Breath) or Ki is the life force in all creation.

Che (Body) is the materials that make up the body. For example, muscle and bones.

Hon (Spirit) is the will of a person and desire to achieve something.

These four aspects of the bodies composition are tied with one another and must be in balance. Irregularity in one of them can cause problems in the function of the rest.[1]

Ki FlowsEdit

Natural Ki FlowsEdit

The Ki follows a natural flow throughout the body and is as important as the other three aspects of the body's composition for the appropriate function of the body. An irregular or blocked natural flow can affect the function of the body and cause health problems. The Yin Body Types are an example of blocked flow of the Ki. The blockage cause an unbalanced state and, if not healed, the person cannot control the Ki properly and thus is unable to use martial arts while has health problems at the same time.

In the case of the Black Origin Threshold the natural flow of the Ki is reversed causing the individual to enter an unconscious state where the body moves based on instinct alone using the Ki as guide.

Amount & Use of FlowsEdit

The natural flow consists of more than one flow of Ki and, more accurately, three different flows.[2] The different flows of Ki determine also how heavy the Ki is.[3] The flows of Ki play an important role in the execution of seemingly high-level techniques. In some techniques, like the Fierce Tiger Strike the user must change the flow of Ki in order to execute them.[3] There is also the case where all three Ki flows must be used for the execution of the Chaotic Heavens Destruction Strike.[2]

UsageEdit

Ki-CenterEdit

Ki and Ki-CenterEdit

The Ki-Center is located in the abdominal region. It is a point that allows the individual to control the circulation of Ki in the body by affecting its natural flow. Although it is not made of solid matter but from pure energy it is possible for the Ki-Center to break. However, a broken Ki-center does not affect the natural flow of Ki and does not cause problems to the body's function but it renders the individual unable to sense and control Ki.

Broken Ki-CenterEdit

If broken once then there is a special treatment that can bring it back together allowing the individual to control Ki once again. However, if it breaks a second time then the state becomes permanent and treatment is as of yet considered impossible. Normally to identify if the Ki-Center of an individual is broken a certain order of check-ups is required. However, it is also possible to know if an individual has a broken Ki-Center by feeling the pulse. Jang-Il Jeong was seen doing it so it is assumed that someone must be a master on his level.

Size of Ki-CenterEdit

The size of the Ki-center is the same for every person but as the individual trains in the ways of the Ki and increases its amount then the size of the Ki-center will increase as well. The bigger the Ki-center and the amounts of Ki, the stronger the individual is.

ExceptionsEdit

When the Ki-center is broken controlling Ki is impossible. Exception to this however is the Ma-Hwan Dan, created by Seung-Jae Bae, and its improved version, the Jin-Gi Dan.

ControlEdit

Main article: Martial Arts

An individual can learn how to control the Ki through training in the ways of the Ki. The training consists of four steps.

The first steps of training focus on breathing exercises that help the person control the flow and circulation of the Ki in the body by learning how to use the Ki-center. The main idea is to gather the Ki to the Ki center and then distribute it evenly to the whole body. This step includes applying circulation and distribution techniques.

As the circulation training proceeds the individual will have to start physical exercises in order to keep the Ki and the physical body in balance.

The third step involves exerting the Ki to enhance the body's functions and movements. The result is the use of martial arts, increase to a certain level the healing speed, becoming able to see the Ki within the surrounding environment and so on.

After the individual reaches the third step then the three steps are still done simultaneously in a pre-organised training program. With this training a person can reach the level of Master.

The fourth and final step of the training focus on surpassing the body's potential. It is also called the highest level of training. An individual widens his bloodstream which has as a result the further increase of the Ki amounts and the size of the Ki-center. The result is that the individual can reach, what is called as, the level of a "Real Master".[4]

(Taking a Spirit Medicine however can distort the order of training while it endangers the practitioners health.)

MedicineEdit

Main article: Medicine (Martial Arts)

Natural PhenomenaEdit

The cases differ depending on which side has the issue, the Body or the Ki. A different issue in one side can have a different impact on the other. Although, this does not only refer to negative issues but also positive issues and impacts.

Body -> Ki: The relation between Body and Ki gives the ability to change the Ki by changing the body. One such example is the Final Step of Training where the Ki reserves increase by widening the blood stream.

Ki -> Body: The reversed relation is also possible. The Ki and body exist in a balance. This means that a strong Ki needs a strong body to hold it. Issues with the Ki (positive or negative can affect the body. Such examples are theYin Body Types and the Overhaul Rebirth (Hwan Gol Tal Tae).

Martial ArtsEdit

In Martial arts there are techniques, like the Inner Energy Healing[5] that can affect the body by using Ki.

ScienceEdit

The existence of Ki extents even as far as the Science of Medicine. Clans and Schools focus on controlling the Ki for healing purposes. Others study it further to enhance other factors as well. The most notable are the One Moon School and the Blood & Bone School. Starting by researching the and experimenting on Ki to improve their strength in the Murim they managed to learn the medical uses of Ki as well. Such an exmaple are the Spirit Medicines/Pills (Dan).

The techniques that relate with absorbing and transferring Ki have many uses. One is to help an individual replenish his/her Ki by taking some from another or to take the Ki of individual to increase ones own Ki and overall strength in martial arts.

VariationsEdit

Ki Absorption/Transference: A technique that allows Shi-Ho to absorb and transfer Ki from one person to another. Shi-Ho can promote a form of internal healing by massaging the body of another and absorbing their internal energy. Her skill in this technique is great enough for her to use it in a matter of minutes. She can take Ki that she has taken from someone and transfer it into another individual.

Energy Absorption Great Technique (Huep Jeong Dae Gong): This technique allows the user to absorb Ki and life force from the opposite sex, leaving them in a mummy-like state, and increasing his own Ki.

Goomoonryong's Internal Energy Transference: The specifics of this technique are never explained but Goomoonryong comments that even a good practitioner could only maintain it for a few minutes while he could do so for several hours.

Yae-won's Ki Transference Technique: While training Shi-Woon, Yae-Won showed to be able to transfer Ki from herself to another individual (in this case, Shi-Woon).

An individual can learn how to control the Ki through training in the ways of the Ki. The learning process of Ki-based martial arts includes three basic steps:

Air Herding: The practitioner is training the energy and accumulates it in the Ki-Center. [1]

Power Distribution: this step makes use of distribution and circulation techniques to distribute the accumulated ki within the body.[1]

Bloom Through: the last step involves techniques that use the energy stored in the Ki-Center during the Air Herding step in order to enhance the bodies performance in terms of strength and speed, or to perform Ki strikes.[1]

TrainingEdit

During the learning process, after the first step, the practitioner begins more physical training in accordance to the Air Herding step. The training consists of four steps.

The first step (based on the Air Herding and Power Distribution steps) of training focus on breathing exercises that help the person control the flow and circulation of the Ki in the body by training their control on their Ki-Center. The main idea is to gather the Ki to the Ki-Center and then distribute it evenly to the whole body. This step includes applying circulation and distribution techniques.

As the circulation training proceeds the individual will have to start physical exercises in order to keep the Ki and the physical body in balance according to the Simgichehon.

The third step involves exerting the Ki to enhance the body's functions and movements. The result is the use of martial arts, increase to a certain level the healing speed, become able to see in pure dark and so on.

After the individual reaches the third step then the three steps are still done simultaneously in a pre-organised training program. With this training a person can reach the level of Master.

The fourth and final step of the training focus on surpassing the body's potential. It is also called the highest level of training. An individual widens his bloodstream which has as a result the further increase of the Ki amounts and the size of the Ki-center. The result is that the individual can reach, what is called as, the level of a "Real Master".[2]

ExceptionsEdit

The three first steps are essential in order for a practitioner to realize the existance of Ki within the body and start controlling it. However, use of Spirit Medicines can distort the order of training enabling an individual to use the Ki without realizing what it is or increases the Ki reserves of an individual to the point that it reaches the Rank of Real Master without the physical body to withstand it. In short this effects distort the balance of the Simgichehon resulting in possibly serious negative impacts on the individual or even death.

TechniquesEdit

The Ki, after the third step of training, can be used to enhance the body's functions and movements. Thus results in the use of martial arts, the basic way of fighting in the Murim world. The effect on the body differs depending on how the Ki is circulated. Hence, the martial art techniques are formed.

ClassificationEdit

Martial Arts have various uses. When it comes to fighting Ki can be used to enhance the abilities of the user or protect them. It can also enhance the movements of the user by enabling them to use foothold where would normally be impossible, like walls, ceiling and so on. The Ki can also be used for health and healing purposes. According to purpose of use, the techniques can be classified as:

Offensive: When the user intends to attack

Defensive: When it is used to defend, dodge or block any threats.

Movement: When the technique enhances the movements capabilities of the user.

Distribution: When it is used for healing purposes, Ki transference from one user to another, for training or any other use that involves distributing the Ki inside and outside of the users body.

Should be noted that some techniques could fit in more than one of the above classifications.

TypeEdit

By circulating the Ki one can only enhance the body's function increasing the strength or speed thus creating movement based techniques like the Walking Techniques, or strength based techniques like the Strong Metal Hand and Iron Body Technique. However a person has also the ability to release Ki outside creating the Ki strikes. Ki strikes have the advantage of creating a force of Ki that passes through the target's body causing internal damage while it farther increases the strength of the user. A Ki strike is able to kill the target instantly if it hits correctly. According to the usage of Ki there are two types of techniques:

Internal:If the technique focuses on increasing the body's function then the technique is Type-Internal technique.

External: Ki strikes and any other technique that focuses on releasing and using the Ki outside of the users body then it is an Type-External technique.

ExecutionEdit

The execution of the techniques varies depending on the way the Ki is used. There are two types of execution:

Instantaneous: When the technique is used instantly or repeatedly.

Continuous: When a single execution of the technique remains in effect for as long as the user wants or is capable of.

RanksEdit

Main article: Ranks (Martial Arts)

Based on the level of mastery of the Ki and use in martial arts the martial artists are categorized in several ranks that are used to describe their level as martial artists. The martial arts ranks that are mentioned until now are:

Beginner/Amateur

Practitioner (assumed: the rank between Beginner and Expert)

Expert

Master

Advanced Master (hinted: the rank between Master and Real Master)

Real Master

Beyond... (hinted: the rank of a human that has surpassed the human limits)

TriviaEdit

The Classification, Type and Execution categories correspond to the Template:Infobox technique used in the articles about techniques. References about these categories exist throughout the series. However, the titles of these three categories are not clearly stated and are used for convenience since actual details on categorization of techniques have not been provided so far.

The purpose of this organization is to keep the martial arts schools and clan under control in order to maintain the order in the Murim world. There are cases where people use the authority given to them by the organization to accomplish their own personal goals, but this is not the purpose of the organization itself.

General OperationEdit

PastEdit

The Martial Arts Alliance had great power and the rules it set were absolute. With the exception of great powers like the Sun-Woo Clan the rest of the Murim were obedient followers of the organizations rules. Although after the appearance of the Nine Arts Dragon during the last Shinmujengpe that power started to disappear.

The BreakerEdit

The base of operation spreads in the whole Murim world and their authority is respected by all clans and schools regardless of whether they are allied to the organization or not. However, clans and schools that hold great power like the Sun-Woo Clan do not seem to be intimidated by their authority.

The Breaker New WavesEdit

During the second part of the series the Organization is portrayed weakened due to the events involving the Nine Arts Dragon. Even the allied clans and schools do not seem to be as loyal and obedient as in the first part.

HistoryEdit

PastEdit

The Alliance seems to have taken form in ancient times to avoid conflict with the normal world. As such, the Alliance dictated the laws that order all martial artists to hide their existence to people in normal society.

30 years ago the Martial Arts Alliance nearly destroyed a very dangerous and most detested school within Murim named Blood & Bone School for their Spirit Medicines and other medical techniques that give abnormal abilities and powers.

When Un-Wol achieved the Black Origin Threshold, he was summoned by the elders of the Murim to a meeting to confirm the rumors about the technique. Unable to control himself, Un-Wol killed all the elders that attended the meeting. Their disciples became the new elders and, although the majority wanted his death, at the suggestion of the Alliance's Chief, Un-Wol was banished to live the rest of his life in a cave.

Years later, after Chun-Woo Han wins the Shinmujengpe and takes the title of Nine Arts Dragon, the Alliance elders come to Un-Wol's cave and demanded Chun-Woo be punished. Not wanting this, or to reveal the secrets of the Black Heaven & Earth Technique Un-Wol chose to end his life by ripping his heart from his chest. Chun-Woo witnessed this, and before he escaped swore revenge against the elders for his master's death.

The Alliance elders put a gag order on all those that participated in the Shinmujengpe and deny the existence of Goomoonryong.

The BreakerEdit

Years later, Goomoonryong returned to Seoul and killed an elder of the Martial Arts Alliance. After finding his body, the Martial Arts Alliance started an investigation into the murder and suspected that Goomoonryong was behind it, thus they began to search for him. The cause of death was by a technique called Soul Crushing Strike only a few Martial Arts can use this technique.

So-Chun Hyuk is the first sent for the investigation and he comes across Shi-Woon Yi, and later Goomoonryong himself, but remains silent and did not inform the Alliance to protect Shi-Woon. However, The Alliance was informed of a lead to the Nine Dragons High School and later to Shi-Woon starting a chase around Seoul.

The chase ends when Goomoonryong returns to save his disciple and killed the Iron Fist Munju while leaving a message for everyone to wait at the Koa Tower. Battle between Goomoonryong and Former Alliance Chief began so as they meet. The incident escalates when Goomoonryong witnessed the death of Shi-Ho Lee when she was sniped after already being wounded. Enraging Chun-Woo to the point of activating Black Heaven and Earth Technique then begin to attacking and killing two elders and severely injures the Alliance Chief. Weeks later, Kang-Sung was named the new Alliance Chief. Giving the order that the former of Goomoonryong is no longer a member of Murim and should not be touch for the action of his master.

The Breaker New WavesEdit

The Martial Arts Alliance struggles to maintain peace and order as they undergo tumultuous times. Their influence and power has lose half of they strength no longer the same after the incident with Goomoonryong at the KOA Business tower. Many clans and schools of the Murim no longer follow their rules and they struggle to deal with the rampant S.U.C., as they threaten the peace and stability between the Murim and normal world. As such, the Alliance ask influential figures such as the Heavenly Way School and the Sun-Woo Clan for help, although the latter refuses.

No one knows when Murim first came into existence in the world. However, what’s definite is that Murim possess a different strength and mentality compared to normal people. In order to stop the possibility of the normal world and the martial arts world colliding together, for generations murim have created Dojo's and federations to keep the appropriate distance between murim and normal people. Because of this Murim-ins and society have been able to coexist for a very long time. However, people like Goomoonryong broke those ancient rules. They infiltrate the normal world while having murim-in powers. It is these breakers that threaten the balance.[2]

The murim is a world maintained by the passage of martial arts from the previous generation to the next. Accordingly, the relationship between master and disciple must be more intimate and earnest than a blood relationship between father and son.[3]

Soon after their appearance, these monks became famous throughout the society as martial arts masters because of their powers. In response, many people quickly met them in order to become their disciples. In time, with more masters and disciples appearing, the amount of murim increased, clans and schools were formed and the world of Murim was born. Due to the nature of the murim being "not normal", since their strength is far above the ordinary, there was the fear that coexistence between normal people and murim would create conflict and, in time, war. Thus, the existence of the Murim world was kept secret from normal people, with the exception of some members of local governments and federal government. The Murim is governed by the Martial Arts Alliance. The federation seems to be in conflict with a second group, known as the Black Forest Defence who wishes the destruction of the first for a reason not revealed.

There are rules the Murim-in must follow, when a battle between Murim-in they must inform Martial Art Alliance of the battle. And if a Murim-in tries to take a life then they have to be prepared to risk there own life as well.

Martial ArtsEdit

Although unknown when the term was first used, it now signifies the whole of the martial arts practitioner in the world. However, its origin be traced through its meaning, forest. Apparently, a group of ascendents tried to achieve enlightenment through mediation in a forest. However, they created martial arts in order to defend themselves against dangerous animals of the forest.

Since the strength between humans and beasts defers greatly the amount of strength needed by humans was also great. Thus normal martial arts practiced by most people were not enough. Although martial artists (especially in Eastern countries) know about the existance of Ki the only ones to realize its true potential were the monks that practiced in the forest. Instead of using the Ki for simple concentration and better mastery of the body's function these monks find the way to directly use the Ki for Movement, Attack and Defence. The boost given in this new usage of Ki made people capable of running faster than cars (Walking Techniques)[4], climb to the roof of building by jumping from wall to wall (Wall Tiger Skill)[4], break walls or cut steel platforms with kicks or punches (Soul-Crushing Strike, Focus Stomp, Split Heaven Kick) and also boosted in a great extent the martial arts styles that are also know to normal people (for instance, Master Yewon of the Yewon-Gwan School is able to perform normal throwing moves that are able to send people flying several meters to the air thanks to the use of Ki). Thus, the martial arts of the Murim world were created.

### DescriptionEdit

The theory behind the phenomenon is a common case to every person. The healing of a wound or injury and the formation of new muscles through working out are all considered to be cases based on the theory of the Overhaul Rebirth phenomenon. However, this phenomenon in itself is the case where such change happens a lot faster and changes the body's structure from the bones to the organs. This faster restructuring of the body is caused by the excessive amounts of Ki in the individual's body.[1] It is said that someone who under goes this process will be the strongest master in the murim. This person has the potential to reach heights greater than those reached by Goomoonryong. [2]

### ResultsEdit

After such a phenomenon occurs the body shows great change in the aspect of functionality. Although, it is referred as *restructuring* there is no apparent change in the outer appearance of the body. The individual, on the other hand, feels the body to be lighter and more sensitive while the five senses are enhanced making it possible for the individual to feel and hear things that should not be possible under normal circumstances.[3] Ju Sang-Sik, who spent years researching the phenomena, stated that from the moment the body changes, one is ready to use techniques normal people couldn't imagine. The limitations of the previous body are not present in the new body and the energy inside him is stronger, faster and more "free" than anyone else's. It is said that a person undergoing Overhaul Rebirth can become the strongest in the Murim if he let go of his doubts and fear.[4]

### ParametersEdit

Parameters are cases where specific aspects or functions of the body affect the process of Overhaul Rebirth in some way. These parameters though are not exceptions since they are part of the theory formed for the phenomenon of Overhaul Rebirth.

#### Yin Body TypeEdit

*Main article: Yin Body Type*
The Overhaul Rebirth is closely related to the Blood Vessels for the growth and change of the body. Due to that, according to the theory, it is a basic fact that the transformation caused is most likely to start from the blocked points of the Yin Body Type. This implies that the more blocked points there are (up to nine) the greatest the transformation will be. This could explain the reason why the Nine-Yin Body Type is rumored to give such a superior skill to the individual that is cured from it

A beginner is the lowest rank within Murim-in can have. They are, as the name implies, beginners who are just starting to learn martial arts. They seem to normally be taught in groups under a single master or school. Some exceptional students are trained one on one such as So-Chun Hyuk or due to unique circumstances such as Shi-Woon Yi and Chun-Woo Han. While they are weak compared to the rest of the Murim they are already superhuman compared to a non-Murim-in. Much of their training consists of meditation in order to learn how to gather and distribute Ki and then strength training to keep their bodies in balance with their Ki.

PractitionerEdit

In the series stated as Average Murim-ins, they are people who are not considered beginners but they are not experts either. Thus, we will conveniently call them: Practitioners. A practitioner is a murim who has succeeded in learning the basics on gathering and distributing Ki and has an average skill and knowledge on martial arts. They have begun to learn martial art forms for fighting but are not very skilled or qualified to teach others. It should be noted that even this rank of Murim are so impressive physically that their actions look like movie special effects to non-Murim-ins.

ExpertEdit

An expert is a Murim-in who has reached a high level of skill (probably Master level) in a specific area of Martial Arts but the skill level on the rest of the known Martial Arts is average. Users of such level can be confused for either Masters or Practitioners due to the large gap of skill in different techniques. Murim-ins of this rank are usually known for their area of expertise.

MasterEdit

A master is a very skilled Murim-in who has mastered a martial form and Ki circulation technique. They are skilled and knowledgeable enough to take on and teach students. While their strength and skill are immense their power is limited by the size of the Ki center that the human body has. This seems to be the rank where most murim-ins stop growing.

Advanced MasterEdit

“ ... Judging from his movements he was no ordinary master. He was... ”

— Gyu-Bum Yi about So Jung Chan[1]

Throughout the series there are cases of Murim-ins that are above master level but are far from being Real Masters. This implies the existence of another rank between Master and Real Master. The people of this Rank are usually confused as Real Masters due to the difference in skill between them and Master level Murim-ins. However, the difference between the skills of such people and Real Masters seems even greater. Thus, concluded in the existence of this rank. For this rank there is no official reference, so we will refer to it as, Advanced Master.

Real MasterEdit

A real master is the highest rank that can be reached by "normal" means. The individuals that have reached this level are people who managed to reach the potential of the human body after they underwent the fourth and final step of training. They are greatly skilled and capable of impressive feats such as throwing cars and causing small whirlwinds with kicks. Their fighting style and skills are highly specialized depending on the school they are from and the style they use. The most definite trait of a real master is the state of their meridians. They are no longer limited by the natural limits of their Ki centers due to expanding their meridians, which causes the distribution channels of someone's Ki system to widen. Because of this greater amount of Ki is generated in the body thus they are capable of fighting in a whole different level.

BeyondEdit

An assumed rank that includes individuals who have been recognized by the Murim as individuals who have skills that are described as Godly, Inhuman, and so on. This rank is left with quite a vague meaning as it refers to any individual that has surpassed the limits of Human capabilities. There are only three instances so far:

Not much is known about the Shinmujengpe. It is a contest of upcoming martial artists in which they fight for seats in nine different arts. It's seat refers to a single technique and each seat traditionally belongs to a certain School or Clan.

Each seat is not necessarily attained only by a student of the school to which the seat traditionally belongs. It is possibility for an single person to attain more than one with the ultimate level of one person attaining all seats. By tradition the position of Nine Arts Dragon, holder of all seats, should never be attained by a single person. However, attaining is not forbidden by tradition either like in Kang-Sung's case who attained three arts and the title of Three Arts Dragon.

HistoryEdit

PastEdit

Years ago Heavenly Way School hosted the Shinmujengpe which number of Murim chose to fight in for diffenent clans and schools namely Mun-Gi Ma, Kang-Sung and Chun-Woo Han. To maintain the order of the Murim and to avoid the appearance of a Nine Arts Dragon the masters set an unwritten rule. That the position of Nine Arts Dragon should never be attained by a single person. However, during the last Shinmujengpe, Chun-Woo Han conquered all nine seats of power earning the title, and bringing chaos in the Murim world by declaring that he will change the whole Murim. Since then there is no reference of another Championship being held.

After Shinmujengpe was done, Chun-Woo Han asked for his master to be released for his self-solitude. The Former Alliance Chief ordered everyone not to talk about what happen that day and the death of Chun-Woo Han.

The person is composed by the Simgichehon which refers to four parts:

1. **Sim (Mind)**: The ability to think and generally in the mental process of the person.
2. **Gi (Breath)**: It is mainly known as Inner Energy (Ki) and it is the life force in all creation.
3. **Che (Body)**: The materials that make up the body including bones and muscle. In other words the physical structure of the body.
4. **Hon (Soul)**: or otherwise the spirit. It represents the will and determination to achieve something.

These four areas are tied together forming the person and they usually strengthen and weaken together.[1]

### Unbalanced ComponentEdit

The balance between the four components is what ties the person and a possible unbalanced component could result in the downfall of the person as a whole. This although mainly refers to the inferiority of one component in relation to the rest. Exception to this is the Gi or Ki which, until now, is equally dangerous whether it is superior or inferior to the rest of the components.

#### Sim (Mind)Edit

* **Inferior**: If the Sim is inferior to the other three opponents then the individual is unable to achieve the potential level of the body. This is due to the inability of the individual to absorb and examine information crucial for the individuals development.

* **Superior**: Superior Sim would simply result in the inability of the individual to reach the level that the mind can understand.

#### Gi (Breath)Edit

Unbalanced Gi in relation to the other three components is witnessed in the case of the Yin Body Type cases. The natural flow of the Ki is affected resulting in the disruption of the balance between the Ki and the other three components.

* **Inferior**: Inferior Ki results in the instability of the body and causes health problems. The result is the affected growth of the body and its weakened state due to lack of sufficient Ki circulating in the body.

* **Superior**: Superior Ki can cause the body's break down or even complete destruction of it resulting in death (see *Che (Body)* below).

#### Che (Body)Edit

The body is the vessel holding of the person's Ki. Hence, it is of utmost importance for the Gi and Che to be balanced.

* **Inferior**: If the body is inferior to the other three components and, mainly, inferior to the Ki amounts that are produced in it then the body is rendered unable to hold. The body, in its effort to match the level of Ki in it, it exceeds its limits resulting in it bursting whenever the person puts pressure on it. If the components are significantly unbalanced then the body can potential break down completely resulting even in death. [1]

* **Superior**: Superior Che would simply render Gi insufficient for the body's functioning leading to various health problems. One sucb example are the Yin Body Types as explained above.

#### Hon (Soul)Edit

Hon or Spirit is what determines whether the person has the courage and will to put effort in archiving the set goals.

* **Inferior**: If the spirit is weak then the rest of composition falls behind due to the person's lack of determination to put effort. For example, (in relation to Sim) no matter how intelligent an individual is, if he is not determined to put effort he will not achieve his goals.

* **Superior**: Superior Hon would only result in an individuals constant effort to develop further without satisfying outcome. The lack of equal Che could lead someone to put the body in constant danger by overexerting it.
* DescriptionEdit

They are referred to as Legendary Arts. These arts focus on stopping the flow and controlling the direction of power/force. Thus, the practitioner can nullify any attack and direct its force towards any direction including sending it back to the attacker.[1]

StrengthsEdit

The function of these arts against attacks is explained as the water against a knife. Just as no sword can cut water in the same way no attack can penetrate the defenses of Tai Chi.[1] This implies that even someone of a lower level can overpower a stronger opponent.

WeaknessesEdit

The Tai Chi Arts require a foothold for the practitioner to use them. If that foothold is lost then the practitioner is unable to use the Tai Chi Arts. Thus, users of Tai Chi would be unable to fight to the full extent in midair. Their ability to nullify attacks is weakened and the practitioner takes part of the damage as well. Depending on the difference in strength between the practitioners is also the damage the practitioner is unable it redirect.[2]

TechniquesEdit

Reflection Technique: one of the greatest techniques of the Tai-Chi Arts that reflects an attack back to the attacker. The only known user is Kang-Sung.[1]

* They are considered the highest level of a martial artist can reach with normal means. They are the real masters and referred to as Grand Masters. The title of Grandmaster are also used within the clan and schools to refer to the great teachers of the school/clan, also referred to as Great Masters. They are the pillars of Murim that hold the world of Murim together.

However, the Ten Grand Masters are the top ten Real Masters in the Murim. They are not ranked from one to ten in terms of strength but they are acknowledged as part of a group of ten. It's has also been stated that these ten are leaders of their respective clans/school/organisation. The only exception is Jae-Kyu Kwon who has maintain his position as Elder and Second-in-Command of the Sun-Woo Clan. Only very little Murim have the hope to fighting one of them. Chun-Woo Han has fought against three members. Only three has been seen so far.

* The martial arts championship consisted of nine titles. Each title was represented by one technique from the respective Clan or School. A person can gain more then one Seat however it is forbidded to do so as both Chun-Woo Han and Kang-Sung gain more then three seats. The so far known titles include:

Single Seat TitlesEdit

Gwon-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Fist or Seat of the Dragon Fist. This seat is represented by the Dragon Claw Punch technique, traditionally belonging to the Iron Fist School.[1]

Gak-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Leg or Seat of the Dragon Leg. This seat is represented by the Rising Sage Leg technique, traditionally belonging to the North Star School.[2]

Bong-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Staff or Seat of the Dragon Staff. This seat is represented by the Dragon Staff Strike technique, traditionally belonging to the Hogi Clan.[2]

Dab-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Step or Seat of the Dragon Step.

Ki-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Ki or Seat of the Dragon Ki.

Tu-Ji-Ryong: Dragon Becoming Stealth or Seat of the Dragon Stealth.

Multiple Seats TitlesEdit

Sammoonryong: This is a title belonging to Kang-Sung. It was awarded to him for taking three of the nine seats of power and shows his skills are exemplary. He is one of the few people thought able to match Goomoonryong.

Goomoonryong: This is a title belonging to Chun-Woo Han. He claimed this title by taking all nine seats of power and shows that he has surpassed the boundaries of mortals. Due to the attitude Chun-Woo holds for the Murim it has become something of a villainous title.

Four Supernovas (Four New Stars)Edit

Main article: Four Supernovas

It is not known how the title of Supernova was given. It is said that these titles are given to the greatest talents and raising stars of Murim during their generation. It also appears that these individuals also appear to be of Korean nationality leading to the idea that these titles were created in the Korean Murim society and not worldwide.

The titles stem from the four cardinal points and the four colors of the Korean flag (Black, Red, White and Blue). Whether this has anything to do with why the titles were formed or not is unknown.

Northern Black Star

Southern Red Star

Western White Star

Eastern Blue Star

Ten Grand MastersEdit

Superhuman (by So-Chun Hyuk)Edit

Two special titles of superhuman individuals were mentioned by So-Chun Hyuk. Although these titles are the conclusion So-Chun Hyuk himself has reached, thus they are not official, they are still significant since they are based on So-Cun Hyuk's own remarkable skill, experience, and insight.

One Who Exceeds the Boundaries of Human Abilities: An individual is labeled like this due to his strength surpassing everyone in known history. He has repeatedly stepped into impossible situations, both large and small scale, and overcome them time and again.[3]

Chun-Woo Han: His mastery of all nine seats of power as well as his limitless skill qualify him as a superhuman and was labeled as such by So-Chun-Hyuk.

One Who Surpasses the Instincts of Mankind: An individual is labeled as such based solely on his spirit. Where as most people would be afraid of an opponent stronger than them, he neither feels fear nor submits to the stronger opponent. Rather than feeling fear he actually terrifies So-Chun Hyuk.[3]

Shi-Woon Yi: This ability to surpass emotional reality qualifies him as a superhuman by So-Chun-Hyuk. Ju Sang-Sik referred to Shi-Woon as crazier than his master Chun-Woo Han possibly meaning the same think as So-Chun Hyuk.