(Approx 2 minute 15 second read)

Achieving a 10th Dan in karate is an amazing accomplishment, symbolizing a lifetime of training, teaching, and contribution to the art that person practices.
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So why is it sometimes controversial?
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Maybe it is because of the subjectivity of the process. The teacher with a 10th Dan grade should represent a deep understanding of their art, a good character, and show a significant impact on their students and other instructors.
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In theory, that sounds great – but in practice, the criteria is anything but clear. What one instructor sees as a meaningful contribution, another might dismiss entirely.
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Some organizations award it for technical excellence, others for leadership, while some see it as a symbolic grade honoring a lifetime of dedication. And since there’s no universal governing body, rank validity is largely confined to the organization or dojo that grants it. But that goes for any rank or grade.
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Some people have stated to me that there are more 10th Dans in the West than in Okinawa. But let’s be realistic. Okinawa is a small island. Karate has spread across the world, and Western practitioners have just as much opportunity to train, teach, and refine their practice as those in Okinawa or Japan. And there are those special, genuine individuals too, who have created their own way, their own system.
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I have received comments that argue that 10th Dan should be reserved for a select few, perhaps only those of Asian descent. I certainly don’t agree on that one. Others complain that the rank is handed out too easily today.
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Here are some of the comments I have received; “Too many non-Okinawans are getting 10th Dan.” – “There are more 9th and 10th Dans outside Okinawa than in it.” – “10th Dan used to be for the founder or successor of an organization – how can one group have multiple 10th Dans?”
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But here’s my perspective, for what it’s worth: I know several 10th Dans – Japanese, Okinawan, and Western – who absolutely deserve it. They are leaders, mentors, and brilliant teachers, with knowledge and skills refined over decades. Why should nationality determine their worth? Do they train any less?
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Of course not! Most 10th Dans have devoted their entire lives to karate, to their students and their groups.
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Yes, there will always be those who exploit the system – just as there are questionable ranks at the lower levels – and yes, I know of some of these too. But that doesn’t mean every 10th Dan is undeserving. Many have made an undeniable impact on their art and the people they’ve trained.
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At the end of the day, true recognition isn’t about a belt color or a number – it’s about dedication, knowledge, and the way they inspire those around them.
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Just like in anything, awards should be earned through decades of commitment, not handed out lightly. Of course, there are some who receive the rank without truly earning it, but that doesn’t take away from those who have spent a lifetime refining their training, guiding others, and leaving a lasting impact on those they teach and inspire.
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Let’s give credit where it’s due, and remember: if 10th Dan represents real mastery, it’s not about the number, but the integrity behind it.
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Written by Adam Carter