KIF has already issued official statements on this matter on March 3rd and 5th of this year. However, Mr. Samokhin continues to post information on social media that misleads and confuses KIF members. Therefore, KIF is issuing this third official statement.

1. Regarding the Relationship with the Legacy of DaidoJuku and Kudo Founder Grand Master Azuma Takashi

Mr. Samokhin’s organization frequently uses expressions that strongly suggest it is the legacy of the founder, Grand Master Azuma Takashi. However, his organization has absolutely no relationship with the legacy or teachings of Grand Master Azuma Takashi. No approval for its succession has been granted whatsoever.

2. Regarding the Use of the Terms “Kudo” and “DaidoJuku”

Mr. Samokhin’s organization uses the names “Kudo” and “DaidoJuku” and employs expressions that suggest a “New Kudo.” However, KIF (NPO Kudo International Federation) is the sole organization overseeing Kudo globally, and KIF has not authorized Mr. Samokhin’s organization. Furthermore, DaidoJuku does not recognize Mr. Samokhin’s organization as a friendly group.

In addition, “Kudo” and “DaidoJuku” are trademarked in many countries, including Russia and Ukraine. Therefore, the unauthorized use of these trademarks constitutes an infringement of intellectual property rights and may be subject to legal action.

3. Regarding the Dismissal from KIF Board and Withdrawal from KIF and DaidoJuku Membership

Mr. Samokhin has already been dismissed from his position as a KIF Director and has simultaneously withdrawn from KIF and DaidoJuku membership. In accordance with the “KIF Rank Certification Rules,” the ranks approved for Mr. Samokhin and those belonging to his organization during their time as KIF and DaidoJuku members are now invalidated.

Furthermore, no one belonging to Mr. Samokhin’s organization will be authorized to receive the Kudo DaidoJuku black belt in the future.

4. Regarding the Cancellation of Qualifications

In the official statement issued on March 3rd, KIF announced the following points. We notify you of them again:

• • Mr. Samokhin’s new organization is prohibited from using the titles “KUDO” and “DaidoJuku,” or their logos and symbols, in any form or language.
  • DaidoJuku will not issue belt grades for the new organization, nor recognize belt grades issued by it.
  • All DaidoJuku belts and certificates previously held by members who join the new organization will be invalidated.
  • The KIF will not approve membership for individuals affiliated with Mr. Samokhin’s new organization, and will not allow them to register with the KIF.
  • Members of Mr. Samokhin’s new organization will be prohibited from participating in official KIF competitions and events.

5. Regarding the Unauthorized Use of Intellectual and Technical Assets

Mr. Samokhin is believed to be illegally privatizing training methods, examination systems, and organizational management know-how (technical and operational assets) that DaidoJuku has cultivated over 45 years. This action causes serious misunderstanding among stakeholders and is deeply regrettable.

Furthermore, the “Competition Rules” that KIF has established over more than 25 years are one of KIF’s important intellectual assets, and their unauthorized use is not permitted.

6. Regarding the Damage to Trust

Mr. Samokhin’s actions significantly damage the trust that Kudo and DaidoJuku have built up over many years, and we cannot overlook this.

 

Official Statement Regarding Igor Samokhin’s New Organization