Name and Terminology
Korean Name: Ap Cha Busigi (앞차부시기) • Ap (앞): Front • Cha (차): Kick • Busigi (부시기): Snap or smash The word busigi refers to a sharp, whipping motion — the essence of this kick.
Description
The Front Snap Kick is designed to attack an opponent directly in front. It can be executed with different attacking tools — ball of the foot, instep, toes, or knee — depending on the target and range. The kick is generally classified into low and middle levels when using the ball of the foot or toes.
Target Areas
Primary Targets: • Face • Solar plexus • Abdomen • Scrotum • Armpit • Floating ribs
Attacking Tools
• Ball of the foot (apkumchi) • Instep (baldung) • Toes (balnak) • Knee (moorup)
Execution Principles
1. The stationary leg must remain relaxed at the moment of impact. 2. The knee of the kicking leg must be brought sharply toward the chest prior to extension. Both motions should coordinate in one smooth, swift action. 3. The attacking tool must travel to the target in a straight line. 4. The kicking foot must be withdrawn immediately after impact and returned to the floor or ground. 5. Carefully gauge the height and distance before deciding to use this kick. 6. The toes of the stationary foot should point straight forward at the moment of impact. 7. The stationary foot must not pivot throughout the kick.
Tool-Specific Details
Ball of the Foot: • Targets vary according to height and opponent’s position. • Avoid kicking higher than your own solar plexus for control and safety. • Bend ankle and toes slightly upward at impact. • Used at normal distance. Toes: • Primarily targets the groin. • More targets become available if wearing shoes. • Used to gain maximum reach. • Toes must be straight at impact. Knee: • Used at very close range. • Often executed when stationary leg is bent. • Toes of stationary foot must face forward at impact. Instep: • Used at close range. • Scrotum is the only target. • Bend toes and ankle sharply downward at impact.
Variations
Side Front Snap Kick – Yobap Cha Busigi Used to attack an opponent at the side front, typically from rear foot, vertical, or L-stance. Execution and principles match the front snap kick, except the body is half facing the opponent at impact. • Primary tool: Ball of the foot • Secondary tools: Instep, toes Back Snap Kick – Dwitcha Busigi Targets an opponent approaching from the rear without changing stance direction. Especially useful if grabbed from behind. • Tool: Back heel (dwikumchi) • Target: Scrotum • Key points: Lean slightly forward, heel travels in a straight line, and use maximum knee spring from the stationary leg.
Technical Notes
• Maintain balance by controlling hip and knee movement together. • Recoil the kicking leg quickly to avoid grabs or counters. • Avoid overextending; keep technique within realistic height and distance.