Pak Mei Family Tree
Pak Mei Kung Fu traces its origins to the legendary Shaolin Temple, evolving through generations of dedicated masters who preserved and refined its techniques. The lineage is essential in maintaining authenticity, ensuring that each generation inherits not just the physical skills but also the philosophy and internal energy principles that define the art.
Founding & Early Masters
祖師 | The Founder – Monk Pak Mei (白眉道人)
Pak Mei, meaning “White Eyebrow,” was one of the legendary Five Elders who survived the burning of the Shaolin Temple. Known for his deep knowledge of both internal and external martial arts, he developed a system emphasizing explosive power, redirection of force, and direct combat efficiency. His teachings laid the foundation for a style that prioritized strategy and adaptability over brute strength.
First Generation Disciples
Pak Mei passed his knowledge to a select group of disciples who ensured the survival of his art. Among them, the most recognized include:
Cheung Lai Chuen (張禮泉, 1889-1964) – Considered the key figure in modern Pak Mei, he formalized and spread the system, integrating real combat experience with traditional techniques.
Fung Do Duk (馮道德) – Some sources attribute the refinement of internal energy techniques to him, though historical records are debated.
Other Early Masters – Various unrecorded disciples helped transmit Pak Mei through hidden lineages.
The Expansion of Pak Mei
After Cheung Lai Chuen refined and systematized Pak Mei, he trained a new generation of masters who carried the art beyond China, influencing practitioners worldwide.
Notable Second-Generation Masters
Kwong Man Fong (鄺萬芳) – A student of Cheung Lai Chuen, he played a role in preserving traditional forms and teaching in Guangdong.
Lau Yuen Tong (劉元堂) – Helped develop combat applications and iron body training within Pak Mei.
Ng Yiu (伍耀) – Known for integrating street-fighting strategies into traditional Pak Mei training.
Third & Fourth Generations
Spreading Beyond China
As Chinese communities migrated, so did Pak Mei Kung Fu. By the 20th century, Pak Mei had expanded to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and eventually to Europe and North America.
Notable figures in these generations include:
Lum Wing Fay (林永輝) – Established Pak Mei in Hong Kong, emphasizing the internal power elements.
Chow Fook (周福) – A major force in spreading Pak Mei to Southeast Asia.
Lee Gar Leung (李家良) – A pioneer in transmitting Pak Mei to the Western world, introducing its philosophy to non-Chinese practitioners.
Pak Mei Today
Modern Lineages & Preservation
The legacy of Pak Mei is now carried by multiple schools and masters worldwide, each maintaining a strong link to traditional methods while adapting to modern training methodologies.
Key efforts in preserving Pak Mei include:
Lineage-Based Schools – Masters directly tracing their instruction to Cheung Lai Chuen and earlier figures continue teaching in China, Hong Kong, and beyond.
Combat Adaptation – Modern Pak Mei schools emphasize real-world application, blending tradition with modern self-defense strategies.
Interdisciplinary Exchange –Some branches incorporate elements from related Southern Chinese martial arts, such as Lung Ying (Dragon Style) and Bak Hok (White Crane), enriching the Pak Mei system while preserving its core principles.
The Importance of Lineage in Pak Mei
In traditional Chinese martial arts, lineage is more than just a historical record—it signifies authenticity, authority, and responsibility. Masters serve as both protectors of the style and mentors to the next generation. Through this unbroken chain, Pak Mei remains a powerful and relevant system, carrying the wisdom of centuries into the future.
