During the period between 1st century BC and 7th century AD, the Korean peninsula was divided into three Kingdoms; Silla, Koguryo and Baek Je. Silla, the smallest of these kingdoms, was constantly under invasion and harassment by its two more powerful northern and western neighbors. During the reign of Chin Heung, Twenty-fourth King of Silla, the young aristocrats and warrior class formed an elite officers corps called the Hwa-Rang (or simply translated Flowering Youth).
The Hwa-Rang trained themselves by practicing intense mental discipline in addition to the ordinary training in spear, bow, sword and hook. Also included were intense studies in the sciences, math, reading and writing. To balance these warriors, physical discipline was also stressed through various forms of hand and foot fighting. To harden their bodies, they climbed rugged mountains, swam the turbulent rivers in the coldest months, and drove themselves unmercifully to prepare for the task of defending their homeland.
To guide themselves and give purpose to their knighthood, they incorporated a five-point code of conduct set forth by their country's greatest Buddhist monk and scholar, Won Kang.
: Be loyal to your nation. : Be obedient to your parents. : Be lovable to your spouse. : Be honorable to your friends. : Never retreat in battle.
The Hwa-Rang became known in the peninsula for their courage and skill in battle, gaining respect from even their bitterest foes. The strength they derived from their respect to their code enabled them to attain feats of valor that became legendary. So this is why I have chosen to name my School after these Warrior-Scholars, in hope that our Flowering youth will also become Legendary.
