Let me be honest and expressed my thoughts about TKD as we've attended here for a while now and I've spoken to many veterans parents about this martial arts center aside from our own experience. I can provide some pros and cons about this center. First, the class structure is great because instructors certainly teach with their passion and they helped push kids to fulfill their potential. They're strict, yet nurturing at the same time. The problem with what I'm seeing with this place is that many parents aren't happy with the way business is operated because Master Kwon cares more about money, if anything else.
Yes, it's true that they try to get parents to commit by signing up for a long term contract. I had one parent telling me that Master Kwon is very persistent about it and would give you a sale pitch about pricing going up. He does this every year and to all parents, so be aware of the tactic. Once you do signed up, it's common that they failed to provide parents either folder, sword, uniform, and/or contract that goes with it. You'd have to remind the staff and that's if they remember to look into the matter with everything else they have on their plate. Instructors not only teach as well as they're a sales person too. One time, I saw a child got punished for not bringing her folder to class. When asked by one of the instructor, the kid responded she wasn't given a new one. However, the instructor said for her to use the old folder. WTH?!! If a parent paid for something, then it's only right that they get it. To say to a child that she needs to use an old folder is pretty lame, irresponsible and cheapskate of a place to not provide what's being agreed upon. This is called lack of business integrity and professionalism by trying to pocket parent's money. After all, they charged $100 for a folder that's suppose to come with it. On the contrary, they have no problem reminding parents about their movie night, camp events, and other social things they're trying to advertise. Additionally, they even failed to remind parents to make sure a child learn his/her oral question for the promotional belt test. This has happened with one of the parent and she wasn't happy because her child looked clueless and unprepared on the day of the belt test.
Also, they don't educate you about the program as to what you're getting yourself into and for the new parents who doesn't know the right question to ask will most likely get into a bind should an issue arise such as some of the Yelpers encountered. The problem is REAL and TRUE!!
I don't expect Master Kwon to understand the parents' position because his kids goes there for free as well as some other instructors and volunteers in exchange for their time. Parents also have mentioned his lack of professionalism because he had offended them by telling them not to be greedy or that he's not a car salesman when they tried to ask for a sibling discount or friend's referral. He could be a least more diplomatic. I thought he was a champion, but what I've learned and heard thus far is that he only wants to be a champ when it comes to business. Very disappointed! I truly believe if it wasn't for Ms. Jasmine and Mr. Thomas for the way they teach class. Many parents would have left and the business would flop or they're simply there to fulfill their own personal goal for their kids despite the bad business practices.
Mrs. Kwon could also be a bit friendlier when she sees parents. I noticed every time she passes by it's like she's stuck up! It's the feeling you get when someone give you the impression it's a privilege to be there instead of the other way around, which is it's because of the parents investing into their kids is the reason why the business is still operating.
Unless you don't care about the way they do business or the financial aspects, then I'd suggest looking into elsewhere such as AMA, Victory (they offered 20% discount to parents and friends), Southern California Taekwondo Academy, Shambhala or Wushu Martial Arts, or even MAI. Perhaps, even speaking to a veteran folk who can provide an elaborate facts about TKD. A two stars goes toward the way they operate business. They mainly care about SMONEY SMONEY!!! read more