Our story…

Established in 2005 by Founder Dong Su Lee Sensei, ILDO Kendo Dojo began with a singular mission: to share the passion and discipline of Kendo with a new generation of practitioners. After beginning his Kendo journey in Seoul, South Korea, and leading a dojo there (1995), Dong Su Lee Sensei brought his deep love for the art to the United States. Upon immigrating in 2000, he set out to build a community rooted in respect, perseverance, and the traditions of kendo.

Since its founding, ILDO Kendo has trained over 300 students of all ages and levels. Under Dong Su Lee Sensei’s guidance, the dojo rose to prominence within the Western Kendo Federation (WKF)—a regional federation of the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF)—competing in numerous tournaments and earning victories across the country. ILDO Kendo's excellence was further recognized when two students qualified for the prestigious Team USA National Kendo Team, ultimately representing the nation at the World Kendo Championships.

In 2025, Dong Su Lee Sensei passed the torch to his son, Daniel Lee Sensei, who now leads the dojo with the same dedication and vision.

Meet the Team

  • Dong Su Lee Sensei

    FOUNDER

    RANK: 7 DAN

  • Daniel Lee Sensei

    HEAD INSTRUCTOR

    RANK: 4 DAN

    FORMER TEAM USA KENDO

  • Michael Hsin Sensei

    INSTRUCTOR

    RANK: 4 DAN

  • Branden Wang Sensei

    INSTRUCTOR

    RANK: 4 DAN

    TEAM USA KENDO

  • Steve Lee Sensei

    RANK: 7 DAN

  • Joyce Hwang Sensei

    RANK: 5 DAN

    FORMER TEAM USA KENDO

  • Jason Park Sensei

    RANK: 5 DAN

  • Paul Cheng Sensei

    RANK: 4 DAN

  • Christopher Ahn Sensei

    RANK: 4 DAN

  • Jayson Lee

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Stefani Lee

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Kahn Jo

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Brian Wi

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Tylor Wang

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Brian Yoo

    RANK: 3 DAN

  • Daniel Bodine

    RANK: 2 DAN

  • Ethan Choi

    RANK: 2 DAN

  • Alex Kim

    RANK: 1 DAN

  • Josiah Wong

    RANK: 1 DAN

  • Ian Choi

    RANK: 3 KYU

  • Lydia Lee

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Heather Lee

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Sean Choi

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Bree Lee

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • River Parrilla

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Albert Lee

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Christopher Kim

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Chloe Kim

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Marvella Park

    RANK: 9 KYU

  • Ethan Kim

    RANK: 9 KYU

Ensō (円相) : The Japanese word for circle, symbolizing absolute enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, and mu (無 / the void).

The Ensō (円相) is a symbol from Zen tradition representing the moment where the mind is free to let the body create. It can be open or closed, reflecting perfection or the acceptance of imperfection.

In our dojo, 一道 ("One Way") stands for more than just the name — it embodies our philosophy: that the path of Kendo is not about many directions, but a dedicated pursuit of personal truth, discipline, and refinement through a single, unwavering journey.

The open Ensō used in our logo reflects this ongoing path. It reminds us that mastery is not an endpoint but a way of being — a continual process of learning, self-reflection, and growth. Through every strike, breath, and bow, we follow the One Way — not toward perfection, but toward deeper understanding.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Thoth Adan for the use of his artwork, Ensō No. 5, which serves as the central symbol of ILDO Kendo. This powerful piece perfectly reflects the spirit of our dojo — a continuous journey of growth, focus, and self-improvement.

Thoth Adan graciously allowed ILDO Kendo to license this artwork for use as our official logo. To explore more of his beautiful, Zen-inspired creations, please visit Thoth Adan’s website:

Thoth Adan

“Ensō No. 5” is the copyrighted work of Thoth Adan and is used with permission. All rights to the original artwork remain with the artist.