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DISCIPLES
DISCIPLES OF MASTER BOSCO BAEK
On October 5, 2014, Master Bosco Baek reached a significant milestone as the first individual authorized by his teacher, Master Chen Bing, to accept disciples. This honor highlighted Master Baek’s exceptional expertise in Chen Family Taijiquan and the profound trust Master Chen Bing placed in his ability to uphold and transmit the art’s traditions and principles.
Becoming a disciple in a traditional martial arts lineage is both an honor and a responsibility. Disciples commit to advancing their personal practice while preserving and sharing the teachings for future generations. Each of Master Baek’s disciples has undergone rigorous training—both physically and mentally—to earn their place in the lineage. As successors, they are entrusted with carrying forward the values and principles of Chen Family Taijiquan, with the potential to mentor their own disciples in the future.
[Discipleship Lineage]
The First Disciple Group in 2014 - 6 Disciples
- Pamela Lin Hom
- Mayanne Lee Krech
- Hae-Young Kim
- Aaron Hong
- Linda Asuma
- Christopher Wang
The Second Disciple Group in 2015 - 4 Disciples
- Austin Kim
- Christopher Soule
- Michael Manfredo
- Lauren Chee
The Third Disciple Group in 2017 - 10 Disciples
- Mija Park
- Randall Krause
- Midori Simovich
- Atsuko Zama
- Gin Kim
- Sasan Jahan-Parwar
- Stefanos Kafatos
- Kiho Hong
- Hyunmi Ahn
- Seungjae Lee
The Fourth Disciple Group in 2024 - 4 Disciples
- Sarita See
- Timothy Wright
- Justin Fabillar
- Richard Storrs
WHAT IS A 'DISCIPLE'?
In the context of Chinese classical education, the term "Xuesheng (学生)" refers to a conventional student who may attend classroom training at their discretion. Such a student is under no obligation or responsibility to commit to any further training or development.
On the other hand, a "Tudi (徒弟)" denotes a disciple who has been specifically selected and accepted by a "Shifu (师父)". Once selected, the Tudi assumes the profound responsibility of upholding the traditions and principles of Chen Family Taijiquan as a lifelong commitment.
To be clear, a disciple is a privileged indoor apprentice who has undergone a formal discipleship ceremony and has been accepted as a family member. Consequently, the disciple is entrusted with the great honor of representing the Chen family as a successor.
BECOMING A DISCIPLE (TUDI)
The path to discipleship involves a deep, long-term relationship between teacher and student. Prospective disciples are carefully observed and evaluated over time to ensure they embody the dedication, character, and passion needed to uphold the traditions of Chen Family Taijiquan.
For example, Master Bosco Baek’s journey to becoming a disciple of Master Chen Bing spanned nearly six years (2000–2005), reflecting the depth of commitment required for this role.
Discipleship is never taken lightly. Candidates may be required to submit a formal application detailing their experience, motivations, and understanding of Taijiquan. Only a select few are ultimately invited to join the lineage, ensuring that the art is preserved with integrity and skill.
FUTURE DISCIPLES
Aspiring disciples of Chen Family Taijiquan should demonstrate:
- A commitment to continuing the teachings and traditions of Chen Family Taijiquan.
- A genuine passion and respect for the art.
- A desire to contribute to the growth and dissemination of Chen Family Taijiquan.
If these motivations resonate, the first step is to express your intentions directly to a legitimate successor, such as Master Chen Bing or Master Bosco Baek, who holds the authority to appoint disciples within the lineage.
Following this, a period of mutual observation and relationship-building will take place. This ensures that both teacher and student are aligned in their dedication to preserving the art as a lifelong commitment.
Discipleship is not granted lightly, as it requires demonstrating consistent dedication, character, and an understanding of Taijiquan principles. Only after careful evaluation will a formal invitation to discipleship be extended.