Synopsis
Opening theory in go has a long history and has undergone many changes. In the 17th through 19th centuries, the first move in the corner was usually played on the 3-4 point, or occasionally the 5-3 or the 5-4 point. The star point was almost never played. Then in the mid-1930s, the “New Fuseki” became the vogue. The star point became a key feature and emphasis was placed on central influence. In present day opening theory, the star point still carries great weight, since it occupies the corner in one move, has a powerful influence along the sides, and permits a much faster development than the 3-4 point. Its weakness lies at the 3-3 point, from which the corner territory can easily be destroyed. However, more and more openings are being played today which emphasize tight territorial control. Here again the 3-3 point is critical, whether played to secure the corner territory with one move, or to destroy the opponents corner territory. In these openings many questions arise about joseki in relation to the surrounding positions. In other words, joseki cannot be confined to just one corner or just one side; the whole board must be taken into account. This book analyzes the role of the 3-3 point in opening strategy and features examples taken from about 100 of Cho Chikun's games. The opening is the most enjoyable part of the game to study. It is also the most intuitive part of the game, and its concepts are the easiest to grasp. Any reader who knows the rules should make effortless progress by reading this book.
About the Author
Cho Chikun was born in Seoul, Korea on June 20, 1956. He is considered one of the great prodigies in the history of go. At the age of six he came to Japan to become a disciple of Kitani Minoru 9-dan. In 1968 at the age of 11 he entered the professional ranks as a 1-dan, the youngest ever to achieve that rank, and it took him only another 12 years to attain the top rank of 9-dan. His first big tournament success came in 1975 when he won the 12th Professional Top Ten title. In 1980 he took the Meijin title and this was followed by a rapid succession of big-title victories: the Honinbo title in 1981, the Judan title in 1982 and the most prestigious title, Kisei, in 1983. When he captured the Kisei title, he held the top four titles at the same time, a feat no one else has ever accomplished. At one time or another he has held every one of the seven major titles, the Grand Slam of professional go. Although he is a Korean citizen, he lives in Japan and is a member of the Japan Go Association. Among his hobbies are golf and swimming.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
