KANCHO HAGEN BAER
Founder and Supreme Head of the International Kyokushindo Organisation (IKO). 9th Dan Black Belt. Visionary martial artist and leader.
The Visionary Behind Kyokushindo
Kancho Hagen Baer is the founder and supreme head of the International Kyokushindo Organisation (IKO). A dedicated martial artist from Germany, he spent decades mastering various full-contact combat disciplines before creating Kyokushindo in 2007.
The name Kyokushindo reflects the philosophy at the heart of the art: "Kyoku" (extreme), "Shin" (truth/reality), and "Do" (way/path) — together meaning "The Way of Absolute Truth."
Under his leadership, Kyokushindo has grown from a single dojo in Germany to a global organization with active branches in 21+ countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas.
Kancho Baer is known for his innovative approach to martial arts, combining traditional values with modern training methods. He has developed specialized programs for armed forces, police, security services, and private self-defense.
As a 9th Dan black belt and Kancho (supreme head), he continues to teach, travel, and inspire practitioners worldwide, personally overseeing examinations, seminars, and championships across the globe.
The Timeline
Born in Germany, began martial arts training at a young age, studying various disciplines
Trained extensively in Kyokushin karate and other full-contact martial arts under renowned masters
Founded the International Kyokushindo Organisation (IKO) in Germany, creating a new modern martial art
Expanded Kyokushindo to Europe, Middle East, and Asia, establishing branch organizations
Continued global expansion to 15+ countries, developed comprehensive curriculum and referee system
IKO now active in 21+ countries with hundreds of certified black belts and branch chiefs worldwide
Train Under the IKO System
Find a certified Kyokushindo branch near you and begin your journey under the system created by Kancho Hagen Baer.