Hapkido A.K.A. Lady Kung Fu • 合氣道 (1972)

Hapkido (1972) Also Known As: Lady Kung Fu · Hap Ki Do · 合氣道 is a Golden Harvest martial arts film directed by Huang Feng and starring Angela Mao, Carter Wong and Sammo Hung. Korean Hapkido masters Hwang In-shik and Ji Han-jae bring distinctive kicking, throwing and joint-locking techniques to this early-1970s Hong Kong action production.

The Story

Three Chinese students study Hapkido in Korea before returning home to establish a martial arts school. Their efforts quickly draw opposition from a hostile Japanese school whose fighters expect the newcomers to accept their authority.

Angela Mao and her fellow students refuse to back down. As intimidation turns into violence, their training is put to the test in a series of confrontations that lead to a fight for the school's survival.

The Martial Arts

Hapkido stands apart from many contemporary kung fu films by placing Korean Hapkido techniques at the center of its action. Hwang In-shik and Ji Han-jae demonstrate kicks, locks and throws, while Angela Mao, Carter Wong and Sammo Hung bring fast Hong Kong screen-fighting choreography.

The film also includes early screen appearances by Jackie Chan, Yuen Biao and Corey Yuen, although they are not its principal stars.

Why Collectors Pick It

For Angela Mao and Golden Harvest collectors, Hapkido offers an unusual meeting of Hong Kong kung fu filmmaking and Korean martial arts expertise. Its cast, training sequences and hard-hitting fights make it a notable DVD for viewers interested in the different fighting styles represented in 1970s action cinema.

Historical Significance

Released in 1972, Hapkido was part of the international surge of interest in martial arts films. Its use of Korean Hapkido practitioners alongside Hong Kong actors helped introduce the style's characteristic techniques to a wider movie audience.

International & Alternate Titles

Other titles associated with this film:

Film & DVD Details

DVD Specifications

Complete Your Angela Mao Collection

Find more Angela Mao films, 1970s kung fu movies and Golden Harvest-era martial arts DVDs in these collections.

• Angela Mao Movies
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