IOGKF - International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do Federation

Foundation and Mission

The International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do Federation (IOGKF) was established in July 1979 by Sensei Morio Higaonna in Poole, England, to preserve and promote authentic Okinawan Goju-Ryu karate worldwide. The IOGKF was formed with the support and backing of Ken Miyagi (fourth son of Goju-Ryu founder Chojun Miyagi), An’ichi Miyagi (successor to Chojun Miyagi), and senior students of the late Chojun Miyagi.

Since its formation, the IOGKF has grown to have more than 55 affiliated countries and over 75,000 members worldwide, making it one of the largest traditional karate organizations globally.

Current Leadership

In 2012, Higaonna Sensei took up an advisory role within the Federation and appointed Sensei Tetsuji Nakamura as his successor and chief instructor of IOGKF International. Sensei Ernie Molyneux and Sensei Henrik Larsen were also promoted to IOGKF Vice Chief Instructor at the same time, and together the three form the IOGKF International executive committee.

In 2022, at the age of 84, Higaonna Sensei stepped down from his role in IOGKF. The IOGKF International Honbu Dojo is now located in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, where Sensei Tetsuji Nakamura resides.

Sensei Morio Higaonna: The Founder

Morio Higaonna was born in Naha, Okinawa in 1938. He began training in Goju-Ryu karate at the age of 14 under Sensei Chojun Miyagi’s senior student, An’ichi Miyagi. Later, he became the student of Sensei Ei’ichi Miyazato, another direct disciple of Chojun Miyagi.

Key Achievements:

  • Founded the IOGKF in July 1979
  • Established authentic Goju-Ryu training worldwide
  • Author of several authoritative books on Goju-Ryu
  • Recognized as one of the world’s foremost authorities on traditional Okinawan karate
  • The IOGKF is recognized by the Japanese Government as a true Japanese traditional martial arts organization
  • The IOGKF is a proud member of the Nihon Kobudo Kyokai (Japan Traditional Martial Arts Association)

IOGKF Principles and Standards

The IOGKF maintains strict standards to ensure the authenticity of Goju-Ryu training:

Traditional Training Methods

  • Hojo Undo: Supplementary conditioning exercises using traditional tools
  • Kata: Precise practice of traditional forms with correct bunkai (applications)
  • Kumite: Controlled sparring emphasizing Goju-Ryu principles
  • Breathing Exercises: Development of internal power through proper breathing

Ranking System

The IOGKF follows the traditional Okinawan ranking system:

  • Kyu Grades: White, yellow, orange, green, brown belts (student ranks)
  • Dan Grades: Black belt degrees (master ranks)
  • Promotions are based on technical skill, understanding, and character development

International Network

The IOGKF has established dojos and training centers across six continents with more than 55 affiliated countries and over 75,000 members worldwide, including:

  • Europe
  • North America
  • South America
  • Asia
  • Australia
  • Africa

Every year gasshuku (training seminars) are held in various countries to ensure the transmission of correct techniques and to promote friendship and exchange between members.

The IOGKF Logo and Trademarks

IOGKF Logo

The IOGKF logo is the identifying symbol of the International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do Federation, created in 1979. The logo incorporates both the outer design from the former Yoyogi Dojo and the inner design of Sensei Chojun Miyagi’s family crest (used with permission from the Miyagi family).

Important: The IOGKF logo, IOGKF acronym, “International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do Federation,” and “国際沖縄剛柔流空手道連盟” are all trademarks created by and legally owned by IOGKF International. Only IOGKF member countries in good standing are granted specific permissions to use these trademarked materials.

Commitment to Authenticity

What sets the IOGKF apart is its unwavering commitment to preserving the original teachings of Chojun Miyagi. This includes:

  • Historical Accuracy: Maintaining traditional kata exactly as taught by the founder
  • Cultural Respect: Understanding and honoring Okinawan culture and values
  • Personal Development: Emphasizing character building alongside physical training
  • Continuous Learning: Regular seminars and training camps with Sensei Higaonna

Training Standards

The IOGKF emphasizes that Goju-Ryu is not merely a fighting system, but a way of life that develops:

Technical Excellence:

  • Precise kata performance with correct timing and breathing
  • Understanding of bunkai (kata applications)
  • Traditional conditioning methods
  • Proper etiquette and dojo protocols

Character Development:

  • Discipline and perseverance
  • Respect and humility
  • Leadership and mentorship
  • Cultural understanding and appreciation

Global Community:

  • Regular international seminars and gasshuku (training camps)
  • Standardized curriculum and testing requirements
  • Exchange programs between countries
  • Preservation of Okinawan heritage and traditions

Why Train with the IOGKF?

Training in IOGKF-affiliated dojos ensures that students receive:

  1. Authentic Instruction: Learn the art exactly as intended by its founder
  2. World-Class Standards: Train according to internationally recognized criteria
  3. Direct Lineage: Study under instructors certified by Sensei Higaonna himself
  4. Global Recognition: Earn ranks and certifications respected worldwide
  5. Cultural Connection: Experience the true spirit and traditions of Okinawan karate

The IOGKF Difference

Unlike many modern martial arts organizations, the IOGKF prioritizes:

  • Quality over quantity: Focus on deep understanding rather than rapid advancement
  • Traditional values: Emphasis on character development and respect
  • Cultural preservation: Maintaining the authentic Okinawan way
  • Personal growth: Supporting each student’s individual journey
  • Lifelong learning: Continuous improvement for instructors and students alike

The Journey Continues

Today the IOGKF is as dedicated to its original purpose as it was in 1979. The IOGKF represents the philosophy of Goju-Ryu founder “Bushi” Chojun Miyagi, and with this in mind, it is important to dedicate ourselves to the further improvement and development of Goju-Ryu karate through diligent training, so that we may come to understand the very essence of our art.

Whether you are beginning your martial arts journey or seeking to deepen your understanding of traditional karate, the IOGKF offers a path of continuous learning and personal growth. Through dedicated practice and study under qualified instructors, students develop not only physical techniques but also the mental fortitude and spiritual insight that define true martial artists.

The legacy of Sensei Morio Higaonna and the current leadership under Sensei Tetsuji Nakamura continue to inspire new generations of practitioners worldwide, ensuring that the authentic spirit of Goju-Ryu will endure for centuries to come.