A group of Italian students recently caused widespread controversy over their behaviour on a BTS train in Bangkok, Thailand. When another passenger asked them to lower their voices, some of the students reportedly responded with offensive language and inappropriate gestures. The students and their group leader later issued a public apology, while some of those involved were fined by Thai police.
This incident shows why young people today need Judo education more than ever.
Judo is not only about throws, groundwork or winning competitions. It also teaches respect, emotional control, discipline and responsibility. Bowing before entering the dojo, taking care of training partners, remaining humble in victory and behaving respectfully in defeat are all important parts of Judo education.
Kodokan Judo is guided by the principles of Seiryoku-Zenyo, the best use of energy, and Jita-Kyoei, mutual welfare and benefit. Judo is not only about becoming stronger. It teaches us to respect others and improve together.
If more schools in Europe introduced Kodokan Judo, students would learn more than a sport. They would also learn how to behave, respect others and live responsibly within society.
True Judo practice should not end with a bow at the dojo entrance. The real meaning of Judo education is shown when a person leaves the tatami and continues to respect others, control their emotions and take responsibility for their actions.
Sources
The following are public reports published by Thai news media on X, together with a Kodokan reference on Judo and Rei: