- George Chung
- 47 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Allen Steen, the Tae Kwon Do Master who pioneered modern karate in America, passed on Dec 30, 2025 at the age of 85. He was a giant among men, loved by many, respected by all.
Tae Kwon Do Master Allen R. Steen was a pioneering American martial artist, visionary teacher, and trailblazing promoter whose influence helped shape the foundation of modern martial arts in the United States. Widely regarded as one of the most influential martial artists of his era, Steen’s legacy endures through his students, his innovations, and the uncompromising spirit he brought to American karate and taekwondo.
Steen began his martial arts journey in 1959 under the instruction of Jhoon Rhee, the man revered as the “Father of American Taekwondo.” At a time when Asian martial arts were virtually unknown in mainstream America, Steen embraced the discipline with uncommon dedication.
In 1962, he earned his black belt, becoming the first American student of Jhoon Rhee to achieve black belt standing. Of the original 184 students who enrolled under Rhee in 1959, Steen was one of only six to reach that level an achievement that underscored both his talent and perseverance.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and many Martial Arts friends of Grand Master Allen Steen. As the original Karate Pioneer in Texas under Grand Master Jhoon Rhee, GM Steen's legacy will continue to inspire and empower the countless students, Champions, and karate friends he made over the many years. His impact will be remembered for generations to come. RIP.
—Jeff Smith (World Kickboxing Champion, Black Belt Hall of Fame)
Recognized as a pioneer of American karate and taekwondo, Allen Steen is often celebrated as the “Father of Tae Kwon Do in Texas.” During the 1960s, he played a central role in spreading martial arts throughout the state, establishing schools and cultivating a culture of discipline, respect, and toughness that would define Texas martial arts for generations.
Known for his demanding standards, Steen earned the reputation as the “Father of Blood-N-Guts Karate.” This moniker reflected the intense, no-nonsense style of training that flourished in Texas during the 1960s.
His methods emphasized toughness, discipline, and mental resilience—principles inspired by the rigorous training regimens of his own master, Jhoon Rhee. While strict, Steen’s approach forged deeply loyal students and produced exceptional martial artists.
Steen was also far ahead of his time as a businessman. Long before martial arts schools became widely commercialized, he successfully built and operated large-scale karate programs, proving that martial arts could thrive as both a discipline and a profession.
As early as 1970, Black Belt magazine recognized Steen as a pioneer of “big business karate,” highlighting his innovative approach to school management, instructor development, and student outreach. His success helped legitimize martial arts as a viable career path in the United States. In the 70s he continued to be a force and a spokesperson for the direction of sport Karate.
Allen blessed us in countless ways—as an inspirational competitor, a brilliant communicator and teacher, and a highly successful business entrepreneur. He was a fighter in the truest sense of the word: on the mat, in leadership, and in principle.
He earned respect the hard way—through unwavering commitment during the most demanding era of American sport karate. His legacy deserves to be remembered with the same strength, integrity, and dignity with which he lived his life.
—Mike Stone (International Karate Champion and Black Belt Hall of Fame)
Under his instruction, Allen Steen developed some of the most successful karate competitors and instructors of the era. Even before digital media, he introduced the idea of video for practice and mastery, as seen in this 1970 story over 55 years ago, Steen was way ahead of his time.
His students carried his teachings across the country, extending his influence far beyond Texas and ensuring that his philosophy lived on through multiple generations.
In recognition of his lasting contributions, Steen was inducted into the American Karate Black Belt Association Hall of Fame and later honored with induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2015, MA Success, a sister publication of Black Belt, featured him on the cover.
Allen R. Steen leaves behind an enduring legacy as a martial artist, teacher, entrepreneur, and pioneer. His impact on American martial arts is immeasurable, and his name remains synonymous with toughness, integrity, and the uncompromising pursuit of excellence.
