Instructors
Jin S. Shim
Grand Master / Founder & Owner
Founder of U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy with over 40 years in Tae Kwon Do
Welcome to U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy. I founded this school in Sunnyvale in 1995 with a simple goal: to teach Tae Kwon Do the way it was meant to be taught — authentically, and with respect for the culture and philosophy behind it. Before coming to the United States, I trained and taught in Seoul, Korea, serving as head instructor for Han Sung High School and the Korean Army, and touring the world as a member of the Korea National Taekwondo Demonstration Team. Our team demonstrated at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, at Madison Square Garden in New York, and at over 250 assemblies across the United States, Korea, Canada and Japan. As an 8th Dan Kukkiwon-certified master and an International Referee for World Taekwondo, I have served as Head Coach of the 2006 U.S.A. National Team and Team Leader of the 2012 U.S.A. National Team. I also direct the Bay Area Open Taekwondo Championship and serve as Vice President of the California United Taekwondo Association. At USTA we teach far more than kicking and punching. Every student learns courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control and indomitable spirit — the values that carry them well beyond the dojang.
I look forward to welcoming you and your family to our academy. Thank you, Grand Master Jin S. Shim U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy
Our Master Instructors
Highly qualified instructors dedicated to guiding you through your martial arts journey with expertise and passion.
Alice Pak
4th Dan Black Belt
Steve Archer
5th Dan Black Belt
Ken Lamoth
2nd Dan Black BeltWhy Learn From Our Instructors
Expert Instruction
Official Kukkiwon registered school with all instructors holding Kukkiwon Dan certificates
Personalized Attention
Individual guidance tailored to your skill level and goals
Proven Track Record
Success stories from thousands of students across all ages
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our programs, training, and membership
We offer classes for all ages, from young children to adults. Our programs are tailored to different skill levels and goals.
No prior experience is required! We welcome beginners as well as experienced martial artists looking to refine their skills.
Comfortable athletic wear is fine for your first class. If you decide to continue, we'll guide you on getting a uniform and gear.
We recommend attending at least two classes per week for steady improvement, but you can train more frequently based on your goals.
We go beyond physical training to focus on building strong character. Our program is rooted in the values of loyalty, discipline, and perseverance helping students grow into confident, respectful individuals both on and off the mat. We teach not just technique, but the mindset and spirit of true martial artists.