JKA Overcoming Challenges

Overcoming Challenges (1990-1999)

In 1990, the JKA was rocked by crisis when a faction within the organi-
zation seized the JKA’s official status. The group called an extraordinary General Assembly meeting, but did not identify the agenda or state the purpose as legally required. After this unlawful meeting, the faction suc-
ceeded in illegally changing the official executive register. Thus began a long period of litigation.

Despite this, the JKA continued to progress. The overwhelming majority of members and instructors remained loyal to the original and true JKA. Then Master Sugiura Motokuni was appointed to the position of Chief Instructor in 1991. Together with Chairman Nakahara, they began initiating a return to the true spirit of karate—just when that spirit was needed most.

In 1994, the JKA published the first in a series of five authoritative text-books on kata. This series quickly became the “bible” of karate kata.

Then came the court rulings. In 1995, as members had long expected, the JKA won the case in Tokyo Local Court. In 1998, it won again in Tokyo Higher Court. Then in June 1999, the Japan Supreme Court rejected the appeal of the seceded group, and the case was closed once and for all. As a result, the legal executive register was restored to the state it was in before the faction had so forcefully changed it.

In the end, the JKA had not only weathered the challenge, but had grown stronger because of it. It had gained more internal cohesion and a stronger sense of identity than ever before.
Jun 10, 1990 Litigation begins over official register
Apr 1, 1991 Master Sugiura Motokuni becomes Chief Instructor
Feb 20, 1993 JKA headquarters dojo moves to Ebisu
Oct 30, 1994 JKA publishes textbook on kata. Gradually expanded to five volume series
Jan 19, 1995 Tokyo Local Court rules in favor of JKA
Oct 29, 1998 Tokyo Higher Court rules in favor of JKA
Jun 10, 1999 JKA wins the case in Japan Supreme Court; official recognition restored

More on the history of the JKA:

The Early Years (1949-1957) >>
Growth & Development (1957-1989) >>
Overcoming Challenges (1990-1999) >>
Into the 21st Century (2000 to present) >>

for more information please visit the JKA Japan Website

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