Shim Gum Do emerged from the enlightenment of Chang Sik Kim, during a 100-day meditation and prayer retreat at Hwagyesa temple in Seoul, South Korea, in 1965.

He moved to the United States in 1974, and, in 1978 he established American Buddhist Shim Gum Do Association.

Advanced students may study Ssang Gum Boep ("two-sword dharma"), Dan Bong Sul ("short staff art"), or Jang Bong Sul ("long staff art"), consisting of 50 forms each.

[5] Although the physical techniques of Shim Gum Do are intended by Chang Sik Kim to be effective fighting techniques, Chang Sik Kim teaches that the foundation of a clear mind and harmony between mind and body’s action is the most important thing a person can learn for defense.

It is typically practiced in spaces set up as Buddhist sanctuaries, and students have frequent opportunities for sitting in meditation and receiving dharma instruction.