Pronounced "key-yoke/shin", meaning the ultimate truth, is reputed throughout the Martial Arts World as the strongest karate. It was founded in 1953 by the late Grand Master Sosai Mas Oyama. After studying various martial arts for two decades, he created Kyokushin Karate from what he believed to be the best qualities from each style, and combined his own practical training methods so the application of these ancient forms could suit 21st Century students.

Kyokushin Karate is characterized by requiring of its participants strenuous training, conditioning and realistic contact while sparring. Kyokushin practitioners believe this contact is necessary in order to fully appreciate the resiliency of the human body and spirit to prepare for any serious confrontation. This is the fundamental reason Kyokushin Karate differs from other forms. It remains very traditional in its teaching methods, protocols and beliefs, yet surpasses rigid guidelines to show practitioners to individually grow and progress.

The Kyokushin Headquarters, presently directed by Kancho Shokei Matsui, is located in Tokyo, Japan. The International Karate Organization (IKO) Kyokushin-kaikan has grown to become one of the largest karate organizations in the world.

IKO is directed by Kancho Shokei Matsui, Mas Oyama's named successor and protégé. Kancho Matsui has fought the infamous 100-Man Kumite (Series of 100 fights) and has won the World Karate Tournament and the All Japan Tournament twice. He has a unique combination of amazing power and unbeatable strength as well as the supreme grace and genuine humility of a true leader. Currently, Kancho Matsui travels to scores of Branches each year in countries around the globe to teach the Kyokushin Way.