Chen Lee Woo was born in 1909, in south China. His family moved to Okinawa in 1912. In 1916, at the age of 7, he first studied Okinawan Karate. He then went on to study Breaking Techniques of Shotokan, Ju-Jitsu, Tae Kwon Do, Hopkido, Tai Chi Ch'aun, Kobu Jutsu (Chinese and Japanese Weapons), Okinawan Karate, Judo, and Aikido. Master Chen brought all of these styles together using the philosophy of peace, harmony, and respect for all life. Then in 1958 founded the Martial Arts System of Woo Chen Karate Jitsu.
In 1967, Master Chen moved from Okinawa to Pasadena, Texas. And then in 1969, Master Chen brought six children together to teach them the Martial Art of Woo Chen Karate Jitsu. These 5-year-old boys were the first and only students of Master Chen Lee Woo. Tutoring was avaiable 4–6 hours a day, 6–7 days a week.
Incorporated into Woo Chen Karate Jitsu are the following disciplines:
| Tai Chi Ch'aun | Okinawan Karate | Aikido |
| Tae Kwon Do | Kobu Jutsu | Hapkido |
| Shotokan Karate | Judo and Ju-Jitsu | Aiki Ju-Jitsu |
Woo Chen Karate Jitsu is first and foremost an Art of Self–Defense. It is not to be used for displays of aggression or harassment of others. With this in mind, students are first taught the skills of non-aggression, peace, harmony, compassion, and respect. They are taught to avoid trouble spots, aggressors, and how to defend without bringing harm to others or himself.
Woo Chen Karate Jitsu Martial Achievement means to bring together all aspects of the Martial Arts and that is what we strive for. Beauty as well as power; this is Woo Chen Karate Jitsu.
The power of Woo Chen Karate Jitsu is and was designed for the time when there is no other option or way out of a situation. It is used when one must protect oneself, one's family, one's friends, or others who may be in need of your help.
Woo Chen Karate Jitsu and Meditation go hand-in-hand in the development of all techniques. Meditation plays a vital role in bringing one's mind together with one's body.