Meet Jinho Kim | Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jinho Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jinho, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
My end goal is to teach Jiu-Jitsu with a clear and meaningful purpose.

For kids, my mission is to help them grow into outstanding individuals who contribute positively to our country and the world. Through training, I emphasize two powerful life principles:
• Hard work always pays off
• Never give up — build an indomitable spirit

For adults, I aim to help them become physically strong and mentally resilient, so they can lead their families, workplaces, and communities with strength and integrity.

Ultimately, I want to build a positive and supportive community — one that helps the next generation chase their dreams with confidence and courage.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I teach Jiu-Jitsu with one clear mission: to change lives.

What sets my work apart is not just the techniques I teach on the mats, but the transformation I witness in people’s lives. One of the most rewarding and exciting parts of my journey is seeing students grow—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I’ve seen students gain confidence, develop discipline, overcome anxiety, break bad habits, lose weight, and become stronger leaders in their own lives.
I came to America in February 2004 as a martial arts instructor. My college major was in secret service studies, and I trained extensively in various martial arts disciplines. When the opportunity came to move to the United States, I took it with nothing but a dream and determination.
Starting over in a new country wasn’t easy. I faced language barriers, cultural differences, and the challenge of building everything from scratch. But I held tightly to two beliefs that continue to guide me today: hard work always pays off, and never give up. Those principles helped me overcome every obstacle and continue to shape the way I lead and teach.
What I want the world to know is that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for personal transformation. My passion is to create a positive, supportive community where people of all ages can grow, challenge themselves, and become the best version of who they’re meant to be.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
To be honest, I’m not an expert when it comes to tourist attractions—but if my best friend were visiting, I’d take them to Carrollton, TX.

Carrollton has one of the largest Korean communities in the area, and it’s full of authentic Korean culture, food, and hospitality. I’d introduce them to a variety of delicious Korean dishes—especially Korean BBQ, which is my personal favorite. There’s something special about sitting around the grill, sharing great food, and enjoying meaningful conversations.

We’d also explore some local cafes, bakeries, and Korean street food spots—there’s no shortage of unique flavors and fun experiences. Whether it’s grabbing boba tea, or just walking around the Korean shopping centers, it’s always a good time.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to say thank you to all the parents who have trusted me with their children, and to the adult students who have given me the opportunity to teach and grow alongside them.

Their trust, support, and commitment have been the foundation of everything I do. Every class I teach is possible because of the people who continue to show up, believe in the process, and embrace the values we build through Jiu-Jitsu.

Their encouragement has not only helped me grow as an instructor, but also as a person. I’m truly grateful to be part of their journey—and for the chance to contribute to their growth as much as they’ve contributed to mine.

Website: https://jinhojiujitsu.com

Instagram: jinho_bjj or jinho_jiujitsuacademy