Hapkido is a kicking and punching martial art, very much like other karate styles; but, Hapkido also teaches:
• How to overcome a heavier opponent •Joint locks, holds and take downs •Flipping and throwing •Disabling an opponent with pressure points •Empty hand defense against a weapons attack
          The Korean term "hapkido" is a combination of three words: "hap," meaning harmony or coordination; "ki," meaning power or, more literally, cosmic force; and "do," meaning the way or the art of. In short, hapkido means the art of power coordination.
         One reason for this comparison is that the Japanese kanji figures for aikido and the Korean figures for hapkido are exactly alike and translate into the same English words: the art of power coordination/harmony. In actuality, hapkido continues beyond the point reached by aikido in its philosophy of self-defense. Whereas an aikidoist will apply defensive techniques only - nullifying attack after attack until the aggressor becomes frustrated and gives up - hapkido not only meets the attack but also turns it back against the opponent. Following through with offensive techniques of their own, hapkidoists control the violence directed at themselves and can render their opponents incapable of further antagonistic actions.
         HAPKIDO is a Korean martial art. Founded by Young Sool Choi, Hapkido is a modern synthesis of older style Korean kicking, striking and weapons systems, and the grappling and joint locking techniques of Daito Ryu Aiki Jui-jutsu. Hapkido uses the efficient application of leverage, timing, circular movement, and pain instead of physical strength. Hapkido is used by police and elite military  
       GROUND FIGHTING While it is preferable to remain standing, ground fighting is an important aspect of self defense. Although not taught in all Hapkido clubs, ground fighting is strongly emphasized in our school.