International Goju Kai Karate Federation (IGKKF)
A New Era of Global Goju-Ryu Leadership
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ABOUT US
Shihan Gurmit Singh is an eminent Teacher and Karateka who in the late 70’s to the first half of the 80’s trained and lived in the Dojo of the famous Shihan Gogen Yamaguchi.
In the late 80’s Shihan Gurmit Singh, asked to represent the prestigious IKGA within the United Kingdom (International Karate-do Gojukai Association).
Shihan Gurmit Singh had the good fortune and honor to learn from Shihan Gogen Yamaguchi himself, and trained in personalized training sessions with Shihan Sakomoto and took part in regular high-level group classes.
Around 1986, Shihan Gogen Yamaguchi wrote a letter to Shihan Gurmit Singh to contact Shihan Leo Lipinski, who was flying to London. Shihan Gurmit invited him to his Dojo in Southall, where Shihan Leo Lipinski was very impressed with the high training standards of his students in the Dojo. Since then, they have remained on friendly terms with each other, visiting each other regularly and discussing Karate-Do.
Soon after, They together through discusssions with Shihan Shuji Tazaki left the IGKA and formed Seiwakai Goju Ryu Karate-Do International.
The Birth of IGKKF
The International Goju Kai Karate Federation (IGKKF) was established in 2024 to unify and elevate the practice of Goju-Ryu Karate worldwide. With a mission to uphold the traditional values of discipline, respect, and technical excellence, IGKKF is committed to fostering a strong and connected community of martial artists.
Since its inception, the federation has grown exponentially, with over 5,000 members across the UK, Asia, and Europe—a testament to the global demand for structured, high-caliber martial arts leadership.
A Leadership Chosen by the People
In a landmark decision, Shihan Gurmit Singh was unanimously elected as the first President of IGKKF by a panel of senior instructors, high-ranking black belts, and dojo representatives from across multiple countries. This democratic process ensured that IGKKF would be led by an individual with unwavering dedication, deep experience, and a proven track record of leadership in the martial arts community.
Shihan Gurmit’s appointment is not just a title—it is a mandate from the international karate community that recognizes his decades of commitment to teaching, mentoring, and expanding the art of Goju-Ryu Karate. His leadership was secured through a transparent and structured voting process, reinforcing the credibility and integrity of IGKKF as a global martial arts governing body.
Shihan Gurmit’s election as IGKKF’s first president reflects not only his technical expertise in Goju-Ryu Karate but also his ability to unite people under a common goal: the preservation and advancement of traditional karate while embracing modern training methodologies.
Global Expansion & Community
Under the leadership of President Shihan Gurmit Singh, IGKKF is already making significant international strides, with dojo affiliations and partnerships being established across Europe, Asia, and the UK. This rapid expansion is fueled by the federation’s commitment to:
✅ High-quality martial arts education
✅ Ethical governance & instructor development
✅ International collaboration & training seminars
✅ Opportunities for students to train under world-renowned instructors
Join IGKKF – A Federation Built by Martial Artists, for Martial Artists
IGKKF welcomes martial artists of all levels, from beginners to high-ranking black belts, to become part of a growing international family. Whether you seek personal development, competitive opportunities, or instructor certification, IGKKF provides the support, structure, and recognition to help you achieve your goals.
📌 For more information or to join IGKKF, contact us at:
📧 Email: info@igkkf.org
🌍 Website: www.igkkf.org
A United Vision for the Future of Goju-Ryu Karate
With President Shihan Gurmit Singh at the helm—elected and trusted by the international martial arts community—IGKKF stands as a beacon of excellence, uniting Goju-Ryu practitioners under a shared philosophy of strength, humility, and lifelong learning.
This is more than an organization. This is a movement.
Welcome to IGKKF.