Originally Posted by sinclair

I studied Hapkido for about 8 years. It is a very effective martial system. It incorporates lots of offensive techniques including joint locks, throws as well Korean style kicks and punches.

Many of the joint locks and throws are very similar to Aiki-Jujutsu (combative Aikdo) as there is some historical evidence that the founder of Aikido, Morhei Ueshiba and the founder of Hapkido, Choi Yong Sul, trained together in Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu.

It has many strengths, but it is commonly known to be very weak when it comes to ground fighting. In my opinion it would be supplemented well with some work in the modern jujutsu styles.

In regards to if it is the right style for you, that depends on what you are looking for. I would put Hapkido in the top three effective combat systems being taught today. It is however a martial art, you will be asked to learn some things which are not effective at all in a street fight. You will also be asked to learn things that you may or may not have interest in, such as breathing techniques and internal strength development.

If you are looking for a very Americanized experience without the theory and "art" aspects of martial arts then other posters recommending a MMA school give good advice.