Hooking Kick – Golcho Chagi

Name and Terminology

Korean Name: Golcho Chagi (걸초 차기) • Golcho (걸초): Hooking • Chagi (차기): Kick

Description

The Hooking Kick uses the same principle as a hooking block, applied with the foot instead of the hand. The kick travels in an outward curved line, resembling the motion of a twisting kick. It is especially effective against the opponent’s attacking limbs and can also serve as a counter-attack.

Target Areas

• Elbow joint • Achilles tendon

Attacking Tool

• Side instep (an balbadak) – used to curve outward and catch the target • Outer tibia should face downward at the moment of impact

Execution Principles

1. Apply the same curved hooking motion as the hooking block. 2. Keep the outer tibia pointing downward when making contact. 3. Execute the kick to the outside of the opponent’s attacking hand or foot. 4. The kick can be performed as a counter-attack in response to an opponent’s strike.

Heights

• Low Hooking Kick – aimed at Achilles tendon or lower leg • Middle Hooking Kick – aimed at elbow joint or mid-level target

Variation

Double Hooking Kick • Only possible in a vertical motion • Performed in succession, using the hooking arc twice

Technical Notes

• The outward arc should be compact and controlled to avoid overextension. • Timing is critical when using it as a counter — meeting the opponent’s attack at the right angle. • The side instep is less powerful than the footsword or heel, so precision and timing replace brute force.