Yoshikazu Matsushima — IKO Matsushima

Yoshikazu Matsushima is a prominent Japanese Kyokushin karate master and the head of the international organization I.K.O. Matsushima. He is one of Mas Oyama’s senior students and played an important role in the development of world Kyokushin following the split of the international organization.

Matsushima worked for many years as an instructor within the Kyokushinkaikan system and was involved in the development of Kyokushin’s international branches. After the death of Mas Oyama in 1994, he founded his own organization — I.K.O. Matsushima.

Unlike many well-known world champions, Yoshikazu Matsushima built his reputation primarily as an organizer, leader, and mentor at the international level.

Yoshikazu Matsushima’s contributions to Kyokushin:

  • student of Mas Oyama;
  • one of the senior Japanese Kyokushin instructors;
  • founder of the international organization I.K.O. Matsushima;
  • organizer of international world championships and seminars;
  • head of one of the largest independent Kyokushin organizations.

I.K.O. Matsushima actively promotes:

  • children’s karate;
  • international tournaments;
  • traditional Kyokushin technique;
  • the examination and grading system;
  • international training camps and seminars.

The organization has branches in Asia, Europe, CIS countries, and South America. In many countries, I.K.O. Matsushima is recognized as one of the most prominent independent Kyokushin organizations.

As of 2025, I.K.O. Matsushima has representation in dozens of countries and remains one of the well-known international Kyokushin organizations.

Today, Yoshikazu Matsushima is regarded as one of the most respected Japanese masters continuing the traditions of Mas Oyama and classical full-contact karate.