The origins of San Soo are not completely known. The passage of time has served to 

reflect san Soo's endurance as a practical system, but has blurred the lines of its history

The art now known as Kung Fu San Soo was originally taught and studied in the Kwan yin monastery in southern China. For hundreds of years this system was developed and honed within the walls of this monastery. Several hundred years ago, a monk named Chen mastered the art of san soo. He left the monastery and settled in southern China, taking with him the books containing the forms and techniques of his art. Thus, san soo became the art of the Chen family. For five generations the Chen family were overlords of their domain. The art was passed down strictly through the Chen bloodline.

     In the early 20th century, China faced great upheaval. Both Japanese and European forces invaded southern China. In an  effort to crush dissent, many martial artists and leaders were killed. Such happened to the great uncle of Chen Sui Dek, fifth generation of the Chen line. In an effort to preserve the art, Chen Sui Dek left China. In his possession were the books originally from the monastery. With a passport under the name of Jimmy H. Woo, Chen Sui Dek arrived in America in the 1930's.

    San Soo coming into America 

      Under the name of Jimmy H. Woo, Chen Sui Dek settled in the Chinatown area of Los Angeles. With his knowledge and skill in his Family's fighting system, he soon became well known as a bodyguard and martial artist within the Chinese community.

     Jimmy H. Woo knew that with the passage of time, his Family's art would end with him. This was unacceptable. Breaking with tradition, he decided to open a school to teach his art to all who wished to learn. He became the first Kung Fu master to openly teach Americans in California, and possibly in all of America.  

     IN 1959, Jimmy H. Woo opened his school in El Monte, California. He christened his art Kung Fu san soo, the practical fighting applications of the system that began many hundreds of years ago, at the temple of Kwan Yi