Gichin Funakoshi (船越義珍)
Traditional Era · 1868–1957 · Shuri, Okinawa, Japan
"The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants."
About
Gichin Funakoshi is widely regarded as the father of modern Karate. He brought the Okinawan art to mainland Japan in the early 20th century, transforming it from a regional self-defense system into a globally practiced martial art and sport.
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Martial Arts
Founded: Shotokan Karate
Achievements
Introduced Karate to mainland Japan
1922