Master

Marco Rosales

Master Marco Rosales began his martial arts journey in 1978 at age 13 in the Bronx, training under Sang Soo “Tiger” Kim, a renowned Korean martial artist. He spent three formative years at Tiger Kim’s dojo, where he trained alongside the Tiger Twins, Simon and James Kim. After his father’s passing in 1981, Master Marco took a brief break to explore music and art but returned to martial arts in 1997 following Tiger Kim’s death. He joined The Fighting Academy, training under Master Robert Tirado, Sensei Louis Ruiz, and Grand Master Sonny Mahai, all of whom influenced his style.

Seeking a more traditional Taekwondo experience, Master Marco trained at Tony’s Taekwondo and later explored Shotokan Karate with Sensei Frank and Kyoshi Derrick Williams. In 2000, he began studying under Grand Master Won Keun Bai and earned his black belt in Han Moo Kwan Taekwondo in 2002.

In 2013, Master Marco founded the Bon Yul HanMooKwan Taekwondo Dojang, blending Taekwondo and Karate to strengthen his students’ skills, especially in competition. His dedication earned him nominations for Instructor of the Year in three Hall of Fame organizations.

Master Marco encourages his students to embrace the true spirit of martial arts, believing that perseverance and discipline define a true martial artist. His philosophy is captured in his quote: “With Strong Body Comes Sound Mind, With Sound Mind Comes Pure Spirit.”

Now a 6th-degree black belt, Master Marco continues to teach, compete, and study martial arts history. He enjoys composing music, painting, and resides in Spanish Harlem with his wife Isabel. He also has 2 beautiful daughters Raquel and Lunna Bella.

My name is Cecilia, and I have been studying Taekwondo for 10 years. I am a 3rd dan black belt and earned my instructor badge 4 years ago. I enjoy teaching TKD and sharing the martial arts philosophy with other students. I moved into New York City recently to study Classical Voice at Manhattan School of Music as a freshman undergraduate. I grew up in New Jersey, and I have a dog who is a Shih Tzu-Yorkie mix!