DISCIPLES (徒弟 Túdì)

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 (October 5, 2014) - 6 Disciples

Pamela Lin Hom
Mayanne Lee Krech
Hae-Young Kim
Aaron Hong
Linda Asuma
Christopher Wang

The Second Disciple Group (June 18, 2015) - 4 Disciples

Austin Kim
Christopher Soule
Michael Manfredo
Lauren Chee

The Third Disciple Group (May 12, 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 (October 5, 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.

HOW TO BECOME A DISCIPLE: OVERSEAS REQUIREMENTS OF CHEN BING TAIJI ACADEMY

01. Submission of Apprenticeship Application
Please submit your application of apprenticeship to Shifu (handwritten, including your personal background, taijiquan learning history, understanding
of taijiquan, and the reasons for apprenticing).

02. Etiquette and Forms of Address
Upon apprenticing, you must follow Chinese etiquette. Always address your master as “Shifu” and no longer by their name or “teacher.”

03. Upholding the Dignity of the School (Lineage)
Honor the master and uphold the dignity of the school. Do not engage in any action that discredits or divides the affiliation.

04. Conduct and Harmony Among School Brothers and Sisters
Respect all brothers and sisters in the school, help one another, avoid comparisons, and never argue or fight—especially not in public.

05. Relations with Other Martial Arts Groups
Respect fellow practitioners, do not exclude others, avoid gossip or conflicts. Dedicate your time and energy to preserving and teaching taijiquan.

06. Apprenticing Under Another Master
You may learn from other traditions, but must seek your Shifu’s permission before formally apprenticing with another.

07. Responding to Shifu’s Call and Maintaining Unity
Respond to Shifu’s call, stay united, and contribute to the worldwide promotion of Chen-style Taijiquan.

08. Remember That Apprenticeship Is Only the Beginning
Understand that becoming a disciple doesn’t automatically raise your skill level. It is an honor, not an accomplishment. Remain humble and diligent in
study and training.

FUTURE DISCIPLE CANDIDATES

Aspiring disciples of Chen Family Taijiquan should approach this path with utmost sincerity, patience, and dedication. Becoming a disciple is not merely an academic or physical milestone—it is a lifelong commitment to preserving, transmitting, and honoring the living tradition of Taijiquan as passed down through the Chen family lineage.

Discipleship is not something one applies for. It is a relationship rooted in trust, shared values, and mutual understanding between the student and the master teacher (Shifu). Before any formal invitation is extended, the following qualities must be demonstrated:

A serious commitment to the continued practice and embodiment of Chen Family Taijiquan.
A deep respect for the lineage, traditions, and senior teachers.
A sincere desire to become an inheritor—not just of the physical forms, but of the inner principles and cultural values.
A willingness to contribute meaningfully to the growth and dissemination of Chen Family Taijiquan across communities and generations.

Those who feel called to this path must first express their intention directly to a recognized lineage holder—such as Master Chen Bing or Master Bosco Baek—who alone have the authority to accept disciples in accordance with traditional protocols.

Once this intention is acknowledged, the student enters a period of mutual observation and informal mentorship. This stage is essential.

It allows the teacher to assess the student’s consistency, character, and alignment with the values of the lineage, and it allows the student to deepen their relationship with the art and its transmission.

These candidates are currently under observation and guidance as they prepare for potential formal discipleship in accordance with lineage protocols.

Discipleship is never granted lightly. It is extended only when there is clear evidence of commitment, integrity, and readiness—both technical and personal—to carry the art forward with honor and fidelity.