Ip Man was born in 1893 in Foshan, China, during the Qing dynasty. He began training in martial arts at a young age under the guidance of his master, Chan Wah-shun. Ip Man quickly demonstrated a natural talent for Wing Chun, a style that emphasizes efficiency, speed, and fluid movement. He went on to become one of the most skilled practitioners of the style, earning the respect of his peers and the admiration of his students.