The History of Hung Gar Kung Fu
The Chinese martial arts types are shrouded in secrecy for reasons other than the fact that the Chinese didn't want westerners to find out about them. You see, a long history of martial arts in the area along with several eras of political upheaval and a lack of written documentation oftentimes leaves us attempting to tie facts together with supposition. The history and origins of Hung Gar Kung Fu are no different. Still, we will attempt to delineate the prevailing theories regarding Hung Gar's history here; but keep in mind that some of its origins will simply never be fully understood. Every historical account given of kung fu in China, including those regarding Hung Gar, involve some guesswork.
Hung Gar's earliest beginnings have been traced to the 17th century in southern China. More specifically, legend has it that a Shaolin monk by the name of Gee Seen Sim See was at the heart of Hung Gar's emergence. See was alive during a time of fighting in the Qing Dynasty. He practiced the arts during an era when the Shaolin Temple had become a refuge for those that opposed the ruling class (the Manchus), allowing him to practice in semi-secrecy. When the northern temple was burned down many fled to the Southern Shaolin temple in the Fukien Province of Southern China along with him. There it is believed See trained several people, including non-Buddhist monks, also called Shaolin Layman Disciples, in the art of Shaolin Gung Fu.
Of course, Gee Seen Sim See was hardly the only person of significance that had fled to the temple and opposed the Manchus. Along with this, Hung Hei Gun also took refuge there, where he trained under See. Eventually, Hung Hei Gun became See's number one student. Hung Gar was named after Hung Hei Gun, causing most to consider him the founder of the system.
That said, legend has it that Gee Seen Sim See also taught four others, whom in their entirety became the founding fathers of the five southern Shaolin styles: Hung Gar, Choy Gar, Mok Gar, Li Gar and Lau Gar. Luke Ah Choi was one of these students (keep reading to find out why this name is important).
Historical Significance
The character "hung" (洪) was used in the reign name of the emperor that overthrew the Mongol Yuan Dynasty to establish the Han Chinese Ming Dynasty. Therefore, the character was highly esteemed by those who opposed the Manchu Qing Dynasty. Hung Hei-Gun is an assumed name, intended to honor the first Ming Emperor. Along with this, rebels named their secret societies "Hung Mun". The martial arts these people practiced came to be known as "Hung Gar" and "Hung Kuen".
Wong Fei Hung
Though it is widely believed that Hung Hei-Gun started the art of Hung Gar, Wong Fei Hung is an important historical person within the art. A popular folk hero in China, Wong Fei Hung learned Hung Gar from his father, who learned from Luke Ah Choi (ironically a Manchu descendent), one of Hung Hei-Gun's classmates. Wong Fei Hung is known for moving the art forward, including further choreographing and developing the Tiger and Crane set.
Hung Gar Characteristics
Strong low stances and powerful punches are a staple of Hung Gar. In addition, correct breathing-strong and clear, but not necessarily fast- is important within the system as well. That said, each substyle of Hung Gar harbors its own specific differences.
Hung Gar Training
Forms, self-defense, and weapons are taught within the majority of Hung Gar systems. Both hard and soft techniques are practiced; although many look at Hung Gar as a hard style. Generally, like other kung fu styles, it encompasses the five animals, as well as five elements and 12 bridges.
