Ryuso, Kancho, Daihyo & Council Members

The distinguished leaders who guide our organization with decades of wisdom, unwavering discipline, and profound commitment.

Ryuso

Ryuso Peter Chong (流祖)

9th Dan – Ryuso of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Early Life & Martial Arts Journey

  • Born in Singapore, 1941
  • Began martial arts training under his father in 1955, at age 14
  • Practiced Judo and other local martial arts before Kyokushin
  • In 1965, traveled by ship to Japan to train full-time at the Honbu Dojo, Ikebukuro, Tokyo under Sosai Masutatsu Oyama. He trained alongside many of Kyokushin’s future luminaries.

Building Kyokushin in Asia

  • 1969: Established his first Dojo in Singapore
  • For decades, promoted Kyokushin across Asia and the Middle East, teaching hundreds of instructors and students
  • Served as International Committee Chairman for Asia & the Middle East (IKO1) until his resignation in 2018
  • Later founded the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu (IKAK), where he now serves as Kancho and Ryuso

Career & Service

  • Worked in the Singapore Police Force, rising to Assistant Superintendent of Police
  • Served as a Self-Defense Instructor for the Police Force throughout his career
  • Brought Kyokushin’s philosophy and discipline into policing and public service
  • Achievements & Recognition
  • 1988: Awarded the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (Public Service Medal) for his contribution to martial arts by Ong Teng Cheong, then Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore
  • Performed internationally recognized demonstrations of strength and control, including breaking 10 ice blocks while standing on chicken eggs without cracking them
  • Starred in Ring of Fury (1973), Singapore’s first martial arts film of its kind, which later became a cultural landmark
  • Achievements & Recognition
  • 1988: Awarded the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (Public Service Medal) for his contribution to martial arts by Ong Teng Cheong, then Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore
  • Performed internationally recognized demonstrations of strength and control, including breaking 10 ice blocks while standing on chicken eggs without cracking them
  • Starred in Ring of Fury (1973), Singapore’s first martial arts film of its kind, which later became a cultural landmark
  • Philosophy & Legacy

Kancho Peter Chong emphasizes practicing Kyokushin in its authentic form, balancing physical strength with discipline, philosophy, and the deeper application of kata.
He has been a guiding force for generations of Karateka, helping shape Kyokushin across Asia and beyond. Today, as Ryuso of IKAK, he continues to uphold Sosai Mas Oyama’s vision,
ensuring that the spirit and principles of Kyokushin endure worldwide.

CHAIRMAN

Kancho Jackie Chong (館長)

Director of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu (2nd Generation)

Early Life & Martial Arts Journey

Born in Singapore, Kancho Jackie Chong began his Kyokushin training in late 1974. From the start, he was drawn to the discipline, intensity, and spirit of Sosai Mas Oyama’s karate. What began as a teenage pursuit soon became a lifelong calling.

In 1988, he deepened his training through the rigorous Uchideshi program in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, where he lived and trained under the direct guidance of Sosai Mas Oyama himself. This period of immersion tested not only his body but also his spirit, teaching him lessons in humility, perseverance, and loyalty that would shape the rest of his journey.

Returning to Singapore after this experience, he assumed the role of chief instructor of the Singapore Honbu Dojo, succeeding Sensei James Chong. At a relatively young age, he carried the responsibility of leading and nurturing the next generation of Kyokushin practitioners.

Contributions to Kyokushin

For more than three decades, Kancho Jackie Chong has been an indispensable pillar of Kyokushin in Singapore and Asia:

  • Leadership in SOKK: He served for over 30 years on the committee of the Singapore Oyama Karate-Do Kyokushinkai (SOKK), contributing to the growth and direction of Kyokushin in the country.
  • Personal Assistant to Ryuso Peter Chong: Since 1994, following the death of Sosai Mas Oyama, he has stood alongside Ryuso Peter Chong, assisting him in organizational matters and ensuring continuity during a pivotal era.
  • Tournaments and Seminars: He has co-organized and assisted in major regional and international tournaments, strengthening bonds across dojos and countries, while promoting high standards of competition and sportsmanship.
  • Mentorship and Instruction: Over the years, he has personally trained hundreds of instructors and students, emphasizing not only technique but also the true spirit of Kyokushin. His influence extends well beyond Singapore, leaving an imprint across Asia

Career and Service

Alongside his martial arts career, Kancho Jackie Chong built professional experience in the oil and gas industry, working both in Singapore and abroad. This balance between professional and martial life demonstrated his adaptability, resilience, and discipline — qualities he also imparts to his students.

Alongside his martial arts career, Kancho Jackie Chong built professional experience in the oil and gas industry, working both in Singapore and abroad. This balance between professional and martial life demonstrated his adaptability, resilience, and discipline — qualities he also imparts to his students.

Career and Service

As a 2nd Generation leader of the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu (IKAK), Kancho Jackie Chong embodies a philosophy rooted in loyalty, humility, and perseverance. He often reminds his students that Kyokushin is not only about strength, but about building character through hardship. To him, every punch, kick, and kata is a lesson in patience and self-mastery. He emphasizes that the dojo is not just a training hall, but a place where one forges spirit, respect, and lifelong discipline.

As a leader, his style is both supportive and demanding. He guides his students with care, but also challenges them to break past their limits. To Jackie Chong, true karate is about pushing forward no matter the obstacles — a lesson he himself lived through years of rigorous training under Sosai and decades of service in Asia.

Legacy

Today, as Director of IKAK, Kancho Jackie Chong represents the continuity of Sosai Mas Oyama’s legacy into the modern era. Standing as the bridge between his teacher, Ryuso Peter Chong, and the new generation of karateka, he ensures that the principles of osu no seishin — perseverance, humility, and truth — remain at the heart of Kyokushin. Through his teaching, leadership, and service, Kancho Jackie Chong has become a symbol of dedication in Singapore and throughout Asia. His life stands as a reminder that while karate begins in the dojo, its true impact is carried into every aspect of life.

SUPREME ADVISOR

Daihyo Ryuko Take (代表)

8th Dan Kyokushin Master – Supreme Advisor of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Born in Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, Daihyo Ryuko Take began his martial journey with a burning passion that would define his life. At just 18 years old, he entered the Honbu Dojo in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, training directly under the founder of Kyokushin Karate, Sosai Masutatsu Oyama. Immersed in the rigors of full-time training, he tested his strength in major competitions, including the All Japan Kyokushin Karate Championship, where his power and fighting spirit earned recognition.

In 1981, he returned to his hometown and officially founded the Kagoshima Prefecture Kyokushin Karate branches, authorized by Sosai Oyama himself. From this foundation, he developed generations of fighters, producing champions who reached the world stage—among them, Shihan Kiyama (World Champion), Shihan Jan Soukup (World Tournament 2nd Place), and Shihan Makato (All Japan Champion). His reputation also grew through legendary demonstrations, such as breaking a metal baseball bat with his shin, and his mastery of the gedan mawashi geri (low circular kick) and devastating tsuki (punches) became trademarks of his technical brilliance.

Beyond the tournament floor, Daihyo Take’s greatest contribution has been his leadership. For decades, he has guided and overseen dojos across Kagoshima Prefecture, mentoring both instructors and students, and preserving the spirit and training ethos of Sosai Oyama. His lifelong commitment has ensured that Kyokushin Karate in southern Japan not only survived but flourished.

Today, as the Supreme Advisor of the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu, Daihyo Ryuko Take continues to shape the global Kyokushin community. His wisdom, technical guidance, and unwavering dedication inspire generations of Karateka to carry forward the philosophy, discipline, and strength of Kyokushin—just as Sosai Oyama envisioned.

ADVISOR

Hajime Yokota (顧問) – Japan

Director, Nihon Karate-do Yokota Dojo


Founder & President, ACTION (A Child’s Trust Is Ours to Nurture Inc.)

Hajime Yokota has devoted his life to the practice of karate and to the empowerment of children. His journey in martial arts began in 1994, when he entered the Kyokushin Kaikan Josai Branch under Shihan Akira Masuda, while also training at the Okinawa Constitution Karate Club at Asia University. From the beginning, he pursued both full-contact Kyokushin Karate and Okinawan karate, blending strength with tradition.

In 2000, he instructed at the Kyokushin Kaikan Romania Branch and supported the Romanian team as a second during the World Championships. Four years later, in 2004, he moved to the Philippines as operator of the Kyokushin Kaikan Magsaysay Dojo, where he dedicated himself to teaching children from orphanages and juvenile detention centers. His work highlighted karate as not only a martial art, but also a tool for rehabilitation and hope.

By 2011, he had established the Asian Development Bank Karate Club, continuing his mission of character development through karate in institutional and community settings. Since 2020, as Director of the Nihon Karate-do Yokota Dojo, he has provided training and guidance to over 200 children from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing discipline, respect, and personal growth.

Alongside his karate leadership, Hajime Yokota is the Founder and President of ACTION (A Child’s Trust Is Ours to Nurture Inc.), a Japanese NGO founded in 1994.

Through ACTION, he has spearheaded wide-ranging child welfare programs in the Philippines and Japan. These include:

  • Supporting orphanages and juvenile rehabilitation centers
  • Nationwide life skills training adopted by over 900 municipalities
  • Vocational training for marginalized youth
  • School feeding programs such as the “Aka Megane Kitchen”
  • Large-scale road safety advocacy through “Tamang Ride PH”

Over three decades, he has built enduring partnerships with governments, corporations, and international organizations, all aimed at creating a child-friendly society where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Today, through both karate and humanitarian service, Hajime Yokota continues to embody the principle that discipline and compassion together can change lives.

Shihan Phillip Moustache (師範) – Seychelles

7th Dan Kyokushin Master – Africa Director, Technical Director and Council Member of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Shihan Phillip Moustache began his martial arts journey in August 1975, eventually discovering Kyokushin Karate in 1985, where he found the path that would shape his life. Just two years later, his dedication was recognized by Sosai Mas Oyama, who appointed him as Branch Chief of Seychelles in 1987.

That same year, Shihan Phillip represented his nation on the global stage at the 4th World Open Tournament in Japan, returning again for the 5th World Tournament in 1991. His technical pursuit of Kyokushin led him to the Yugawara Dojo in 1994, where he underwent rigorous training in Japan. Known for his fighting spirit, he completed the legendary 50-Man Kumite in April 1996, a true test of Kyokushin endurance and perseverance.

Beyond competition, Shihan Phillip’s leadership grew steadily. In 1991, he was appointed responsible for Kyokushin in the Indian Ocean region and as Assistant to the Africa Kyokushin Chairman, carrying Sosai’s vision beyond his homeland. Over the years, he was celebrated locally, being voted Best Karateka of Seychelles three times (1985, 1991, 1994), and later honored with the Medal of Honour by the President of Seychelles for promoting Karate both locally and internationally.

His legacy is also defined by the champions he raised. At the 2024 IKA World Championships in Tianjin, China, two of his students emerged as World Champions, earning him the titles of Best Karate Coach of 2024 from the Seychelles Karate Federation and Best Coach in Seychelles 2024 by the National Awards Committee.

But Shihan Phillip’s impact extends beyond the dojo. In 1997, he was awarded the CARE Award for Being a Role Model to the Youth in Seychelles, recognizing his long-standing work in fighting against drug abuse among young people. To this day, he remains the only sportsman in Seychelles to have ever received this honor.

Today, as Council Member and Technical Director of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu, Shihan Phillip Moustache continues to guide the technical growth of the organization. His journey—from a young martial artist in the Seychelles, to a world competitor, teacher, and role model—embodies the true spirit of Kyokushin: perseverance, service, and an unyielding commitment to the way of the warrior.

Shihan Martin McAlister (師範) – Scotland, United Kingdom

7th Dan Kyokushin Master – Council Memner of International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Born in 1952 in Dunkeld Perthshire, Shihan Martin McAlister began his martial arts journey at an early age. At 10 years old, he started boxing at the Lochee Boxing Club, later moving into judo with the Army Cadets at age 12, training for four years.

In 1972, he returned to boxing with the Railway and Perth Sporting Club, while also beginning Shotokan Karate, where he would achieve Sandan (3rd Dan). Over the next decade, he expanded his skills through kickboxing, competing actively, and later participating in early submission fighting competitions that foreshadowed modern MMA. He continued cross-training in grappling arts, achieving Nidan (2nd Dan) in Jujitsu.

In 1982, McAlister found his true path in Kyokushin Karate, training under Shihan Steve Arneil of the BKK and earning Nidan (2nd Dan). Following the split within UK Kyokushin, he was personally asked by Sosai Mas Oyama to serve as a Branch Chief — a role he accepted with honor.

As Branch Chief for Scotland under the IKO, he served faithfully after Sosai Oyama’s passing, remaining in that position until 2019. Disagreements with leadership and concerns over the treatment of Sosai’s senior students led him to resign from IKO.

He later joined KyokushinRyu under Ryuso Peter Chong, where he continues to serve proudly as Branch Chief of Scotland within the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu, under the leadership of Kancho Jackie Chong.

As a competitor, Shihan McAlister fought actively for many years, winning the British Middleweight Championship and placing in numerous international tournaments. His competitive career took him to Japan, France, Sicily, Poland, Italy, Spain, Ireland, and across the UK, representing Kyokushin on the world stage.

With more than five decades of martial arts experience across boxing, judo, karate, kickboxing, jujitsu, and submission fighting, Shihan Martin McAlister exemplifies lifelong dedication to the martial way. From the boxing gyms of Dundee to international tatami and dojo floors, his journey reflects resilience, loyalty, and perseverance.

Shihan Jan Gruba (師範) – Poland

6th Dan Kyokushin Master – Country Director of Poland of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Born in 1952 in Dunkeld Perthshire, Shihan Martin McAlister began his martial arts journey at an early age. At 10 years old, he started boxing at the Lochee Boxing Club, later moving into judo with the Army Cadets at age 12, training for four years.

In 1972, he returned to boxing with the Railway and Perth Sporting Club, while also beginning Shotokan Karate, where he would achieve Sandan (3rd Dan). Over the next decade, he expanded his skills through kickboxing, competing actively, and later participating in early submission fighting competitions that foreshadowed modern MMA. He continued cross-training in grappling arts, achieving Nidan (2nd Dan) in Jujitsu.

As a competitor, Shihan Gruba built an impressive record. He was crowned Polish Champion six times, earning two gold and four silver medals. On the European stage, he secured 12 medals, including one gold, five silver, and five bronze. His determination and fighting spirit also led him to the World Championships in 2007 in Chiba, Japan, where he achieved a remarkable 4th place finish.

As Branch Chief for Scotland under the IKO, he served faithfully after Sosai Oyama’s passing, remaining in that position until 2019. Disagreements with leadership and concerns over the treatment of Sosai’s senior students led him to resign from IKO.He later joined KyokushinRyu under Ryuso Peter Chong, where he continues to serve proudly as Branch Chief of Scotland within the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu, under the leadership of Kancho Jackie Chong.

Shihan Gruba’s dedication has been recognized with numerous honors. In 1990, he was awarded the Bronze Medal of the Armed Forces in the Homeland Service, followed by the Medal of Merit for Kyokushin in 1993, personally presented by Sosai Masutatsu Oyama. His international achievements also earned him multiple awards and scholarships from the Polish Ministry of Sport.

Over the years, he has held several distinguished positions in the Kyokushin world, including Continental Director for Europe in KyokushinRyu. Today, he continues to serve as the Country Director and Branch Chief for Poland, an International Referee (IKAK), and holds the prestigious rank of Roku Dan (6th Dan). Shihan Jan Gruba’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and deep commitment to Kyokushin, leaving a lasting mark on both Poland and the international Karate community.

Shihan Chris de Wet (師範) – United States of America

6th Dan Black Belt – Global Partnership Director, International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu (IKAK)

Shihan Steven Foo (師範) – Philippines

6th Dan Black Belt – Global Partnership Director, International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu (IKAK)

Shihan Steven Foo is one of the pioneering figures who helped establish Kyokushin Karate in the Philippines. A senior disciple of Ryuso Peter Chong, he has devoted his life to spreading the values of strength, humility, and perseverance that lie at the heart of Kyokushin.

Born in Singapore, Steven began his martial arts journey at age 18 with Shitoryu Karate. While this gave him a strong foundation, his true calling came in 1982, when he joined the Orchard Tower Dojo in Singapore under Shihan Peter Chong. He trained alongside instructors such as Sensei James Chong, Sensei Nai Ping, and Senpai Jackie Chong, immersing himself in the famously demanding training of Kyokushin—long kihon, disciplined kata, and brutal sparring sessions that tested not only the body but also the spirit.

Before settling in the Philippines, Steven lived and trained in Australia, studying as a visiting casual student under Shihan Eddie Emin and Shihan John Taylor. This international exposure enriched his martial perspective and strengthened his vision of how Kyokushin could grow across cultures and communities.

In August 1996, Shihan Foo made a defining move when he established his first Kyokushin dojo in San Juan, Philippines. The beginnings were humble, with small classes and limited resources, but his perseverance and sincerity laid the foundation for growth. From that single dojo, Kyokushin expanded steadily across the Philippines. Today, more than 30 dojos trace their roots back to his early efforts, with many of his original students now instructors themselves.

Outside the dojo, Shihan Foo worked in both Singapore and Australia before making the Philippines his home for over three decades. He served as a Southeast Asia Advisor during Shihan Peter Chong’s tenure with the IKO, and later played an instrumental role in the founding of the International Karate Alliance KyokushinRyu (IKA). Today, as Global Partnership Director, he strengthens IKA’s international presence and forges bonds across the global Kyokushin community.

To his students, Shihan Foo is more than an instructor—he is a mentor who reminds them that the hardest battles are always within. He often says:
“Kyokushin has evolved into a unique martial art. Kyokushin is Karate, but Karate is not Kyokushin. Kyokushin stands out in the martial world, and it deserves a united global federation that gives it the respect and recognition it truly merits.” For him, the dojo mirrors life: struggles, failures, and perseverance in training reflect the challenges outside. True victory is not measured by trophies, but by the courage to rise each time one falls.

Today, as a 6th Dan Black Belt and senior leader in IKA KyokushinRyu, Shihan Steven Foo continues his mission to expand Kyokushin across borders, nurture the next generation of Karateka, and champion the global recognition of the art that has shaped his life.

CONTINENTAL DIRECTORS

Europe Continent Director

Shihan Zsolt Somogyi (師範) – Europe Continent Director

7th Dan Kyokushin Karate Master – Europe Continent Director of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Born on March 11, 1953, in Budapest to a militaristic family, Shihan Zsolt Somogyi’s path in sports began early. From 1963, he was actively engaged in handball, athletics, and even tried judo before finding his way into martial arts. He graduated from the University of Physical Education in 1977. In 1975, he began training in Shotokan Karate, where he eventually obtained his 1st Dan, but by the spring of 1976, he discovered Kyokushin Karate, which became his lifelong discipline.

In 1979, as a brown belt, he represented Hungary at the 2nd Open Kyokushin Karate World Championship, finishing in the Top 32. Two years later, in 1981, he established his first dojo in Budapest, later expanding to another in the town of Pápa. At their peak, his dojos grew to over 300 members. Alongside teaching, he continued to compete until 1985, achieving remarkable results: six-time Hungarian Heavyweight Champion in Knockdown Kyokushin and four-time champion of the prestigious International Szolnok Cup, organized by Shihan Kálmán Furkó.

In 1982, he also earned a Karate Coaching Diploma from Hatai, and the same year he opened his personal dojo, Shin-Dojo, which continues to operate to this day.

Since 1994, Shihan Somogyi has served as an international judge, officiating at numerous international events, including five European Championships. Today, he holds the rank of 7th Dan (recognized by the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu) and continues to contribute to the global Kyokushin community as the European Director of the Association.

Asia Continent Director

Shihan James Chong (師範) – Asia Continent Director

5th Dan – Asia Director, International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Born in 1966 in Singapore, Shihan James Chong began his Kyokushin training in 1971, displaying a deep commitment to martial arts from an early age. While in secondary school, he also studied Jodo, earning a black belt and further grounding himself in the traditions of Japanese martial arts.

In 1984, he entered the prestigious Uchideshi program under Sosai Mas Oyama, founder of Kyokushin Karate. This period of rigorous training and discipline left an enduring influence on his practice and philosophy. Throughout the 1980s, he traveled extensively across Asia, assisting Shihan Peter Chong in teaching and expanding Kyokushin’s reach across the region.

Alongside his martial arts journey, Shihan Chong built a professional career with Singapore Airlines, serving for over 20 years and traveling the world. Despite the demands of his work, he carried his gi wherever he went, training consistently and keeping Kyokushin central in his life. Later, he transitioned into the real estate industry, continuing to balance his professional career with his passion for karate.

Today, he serves as President of the Singapore Organisation of Kyokushin Karate (SOKK) and as Asia Continent Director of IKA KyokushinRyu, providing leadership, guidance, and support to students and instructors across the continent while safeguarding Sosai Oyama’s legacy.

Shihan James Chong’s journey reflects the essence of Kyokushin — discipline, perseverance, humility, and lifelong dedication. From his early beginnings in Singapore to his training under Sosai Oyama in Japan, and later his efforts to spread Kyokushin throughout Asia, he has remained deeply committed to the art. His leadership continues to inspire students and instructors worldwide, ensuring that the philosophy and traditions of Kyokushin are carried forward to future generations.

Oceania Continent Director

Shihan Carl Piva (師範) – Oceania Continent Director

5th Dan Kyokushin Karate Master – Oceania Continent Director of the International Karate Alliance, KyokushinRyu

Shihan Carl Piva began his Kyokushin Karate journey in 1983 in New South Wales, Australia.

In 1985, he travelled to Singapore for the first time to train directly under Shihan Peter Chong, becoming his second uchi deshi (live-in student). This period of intensive training marked the beginning of a long and dedicated association with the Singapore Kyokushin community.

In 1989, Shihan Piva achieved his Shodan (1st Dan) at the Bondi Junction Dojo, Sydney, under Shihan John Taylor.  In 1992, he was one of the three foreigners selected to attend the prestigious Yugawara, Japan Branch Chief Camp, together with the senior Japanese Branch chiefs, where he successfully completed his Nidan (2nd Dan) grading under Sosai Mas Oyama.  This rare opportunity highlighted his dedication, skill, and recognition within the international Kyokushin community.

In 1995, Shihan Piva established and operated a Kyokushin Dojo in Perth, Western Australia, continuing his commitment to the art through teaching, training, and mentorship.

Throughout his career, Shihan Piva has competed in numerous regional and state-level tournaments across New South Wales and Victoria, achieving multiple placings in full contact, semi contact, and kata divisions. He has also participated in many training camps and served as a regular guest instructor at the Singapore Gurkha Contingent Dojo (SPF), performing demonstrations at Singapore National Kyokushin Tournaments.

In addition, Shihan Piva has assisted in training the Singapore team and in the organisation of the Singapore International Kyokushin Tournament, held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium which was honoured by the presence of Sosai Mas Oyama

As an experienced tournament official and judge, he has served at events in Singapore, Australia, the Philippines, and Kuwait. Shihan Carl Piva currently serves as the Oceania Director and an Executive Judge Panel Member of the IKA Officiating Panel, and is a former South East Asia Director.

Through decades of dedicated training, teaching, and leadership, Shihan Piva continues to promote the values and spirit of Kyokushin Karate throughout the Oceania region.