5th Degree Black Belt Grading Test

Written on the 6 October 2025

We wish instructor Giorgio Repice best wishes on his attempt for his 5th degree at the Hapkido Black Belt Grading test coming up!

Giorgio first stepped on the mats learning Karate in 1989, over the years he has attained:

Hapkido - Black Belt (4th Degree)
Taekwondo - Black Belt (4th Degree)
Muay Thai Kickboxing - Black Armband
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Brown Belt
Gongkwon Yusul - Black Belt (2nd Degree)
Gumdo (Sword) - Black Belt
Weapon Systems - Level 9 Black Chevron Coach
Kinetic Army Combatives (KEF-IC) - Level 5 Echo
Kosen Judo - Yellow Belt
Master Security License holder
Certificate IV in Personal Training
Competed in various BJJ, Weapon, Gongkwon, Martial Arts Demo state and national level tournaments
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF Australian Champion - 2025
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF NSW Champion - 2024 & 2025

Read more about him

The grading will be judged by the Martial Arts College panel of instructors led by Grandmaster Ryoo who is also testing for his 9th degree, making this day even more special. It will be held on Sunday 19th October. Spectators are welcome to watch the grading, however there will be limited space. The test will commence at 6am and finish around midday.

Be sure to wish him luck!

One of the greatest challenges an individual must look to get through to completing is the Hapkido Black Belt Test set by the Martial Arts College International (MACI).

This test is recognised by the Korea Hapkido Federation and once completed they will certify you for the required degree.

Once a MACI student has completed their Provisional Black Belt level within their dojang they will then be given a 15 page examination test booklet to complete in form on the day. The examination is broken down into parts consisting of:

1) Physical Strength & Endurance, including all falling techniques

2) Meditation

3) Hand Striking

4) Kicking

5) Striking Combinations

6) Self Defence through all levels from White Belt to the current degree being tested

7) Self Defence Demonstrations

8) Circle Work against multiple attackers

9) Mixed Sparring of striking and grappling

This test commences at 6:00am and must be completed by 12pm. All students going for this test must be signed off by their dojang instructor, confirming they are ready, complete their black belt registration and be in good form with full uniform and sparring equipment on the day. (it is recommended to bring a spare uniform).

View the full list of Hapkido Black Belt Graduates from GIANT

View footage from previous tests below:

2025 - George, Natalie, Farzana, Simon & Van