Kobayashi Yasuo, head instructor of Kobayashi Dojo, turns 90 this year. To mark the occasion, “A Celebration of Kobayashi Yasuo Sensei’s 90th Birthday (Sotsuju)” will be held in Tokyo, Japan on October 12, and the Korea Aikido Association is now recruiting a Korean delegation to take part.
Kobayashi Yasuo Sensei turns 90 on September 20. This event has been arranged so that students and colleagues who have shared a long history with him can gather together to celebrate his 90th birthday.
The celebration will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, starting at 2:00 PM, on the 8th floor Ambassador Room of the Excel Hotel Tokyu in Kichijoji, Tokyo. The Korean delegation plans to depart on Saturday, October 10 and return on Tuesday, October 13, in line with the event schedule.
To arrange flights and accommodations smoothly, the Korea Aikido Association is accepting applications for the Korean delegation until August 31. Detailed information on flights and lodging will be provided separately to applicants once the number of participants is finalized.
For Korean Aikido practitioners who have shared a long relationship with Kobayashi Yasuo Sensei, this event promises to be a meaningful occasion. We look forward to the participation of members who wish to personally celebrate the Grand Master’s 90th birthday and share this special time together with fellow practitioners from Japan.
Members who wish to attend can apply by August 31, 2026, via email to the Korea Aikido Association (aikidokorea@gmail.com) or by contacting the Sinchon Headquarters Dojang (02-3275-0727).
I’d like to join, but my physical condition is a mess right now, so it seems like it’ll be a bit tough this time.