Meet Juah Paik!
My name is Ju-ah Paik. I began my training at the age of 9 with the Tacoma Kendo and Iaido Club; I’m currently a part of Cascade Kendo Kai in the Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation (PNKF). I am now 18 years old and am ranked 2 Dan.
The athletic and artistic blend of kendo has always contributed to my love for kendo. The rush of adrenaline and anticipation as I step up to the court thrills me, driving me to push my limits and improve. Each match is an opportunity to see tangible results of my hard work and makes the journey fulfilling. Along with the physical component, kendo has also taught me discipline and resilience. There are moments of triumph and moments of struggle, but during the tough times, kendo has taught me to take new and unexplored approaches. These challenges allow me to transform setbacks into turning points for growth.
However, beyond these aspects, the core thing I’ve learned through kendo is the value of community. Especially having a fusion of identities as a Korean-Canadian-American, I have discovered many roles and ways that I can give back to the kendo community that has supported me and walked alongside me every step of the way.
언니 (Unnie) is defined as an older sister but holds a richness of responsibility. “Unnie” transcends the notion of a sister and goes beyond just family. Starting kendo as a young girl, I’ve met many unnies that have embraced me and nurtured my kendo. They treat me like a sister, and they have both celebrated and comforted me throughout my kendo journey. As I’ve grown older since I was 9 years old, I've inherited these responsibilities, caring for the younger girls who now call me “unnie.” Over time, I hope to foster future generations of kendo and be an unnie that they can trust and learn from.
The Canadian flags embroidered on my gi and hakama also stitch my identity as a national representative of the many supportive kendo practitioners across Canada. Through kendo, I’ve experienced so much joy in representing others, pursuing every match wholeheartedly and with driven purpose. While preparing for the World Kendo Championships in 2024, I was energized by an uplifting community that always pushed me to improve my kendo, whether it be through detailed advice from senseis or a quick kind word from a spectator.
Growing up in the United States and developing my kendo largely in PNKF, I was able to create a strong foundation. Visiting various clubs, states, and federations, I have encountered a wide range of kendo styles and have been able to explore them. But beyond that, I’ve been able to be a part of a family that has rooted for me with unyielding support. This community, consisting of my closest friends to individuals whom I may never meet, has consistently fueled my dreams and training.
My ultimate goal now in kendo is to nurture future generations of kendo. I hope to be someone that younger kids can approach with questions and dreams as I share mine with them. Through guidance and mentorship, I want to help these upcoming juniors discover the same joy that my senseis and senpais helped me find.