Did you know that a Joseon king prayed at this very spot? Seoul’s Bodogak Baekbul is more than just a stone Buddha. It is a window into Korean history and faith.
Bodogak Baekbul is located in Seoul. It features a unique white Buddha. This Buddha is carved into a rock face. Bodogak means “universal crossing gate”. It reflects the Buddha’s role. The Buddha helps all sentient beings cross over to enlightenment.
This statue is officially Seoul Tangible Cultural Property number 17. The Bodogak Baekbul dates back to the Goryeo dynasty. It shows a seated Buddha carved into a natural rock alcove. The statue is quite large measuring 10 meters high and 5 meters wide.
The white color is notable. The statue is called Baekbul. Baek means white in Korean. The white color comes from the white clay. Gold powder and black paint add detail. The Buddha wears a tall crown. The crown has three faces adorned with elaborate decorations.
The face shows typical Goryeo features. Its eyes are narrow. Its mouth is small. The robes drape elegantly. They show delicate folds.
To protect this precious Buddha a pavilion was built. This pavilion is called Bodogak. It shelters the Buddha from the elements. The front of the pavilion is open. This allows viewing of the Buddha from outside.
Legend says that King Taejo prayed here. He sought divine help when establishing Seoul as the capital. Also Queen Min prayed here. She hoped for the health of her children.
During the Imjin War Admiral Kwon Yul defended Seoul. He stationed troops near the Bodogak Baekbul. They fought off the invading Japanese forces. Legend says the white Buddha confused the enemy. The Japanese mistook the white robes of the Buddha for Korean soldiers. This helped Kwon Yul’s army win a crucial victory.
The term “Baekbul” refers to the white-robed Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Avalokitesvara embodies compassion. People have long associated this Buddha with the white-robed deity.
Some scholars believe this Buddha represents the Seated Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva of the Waters. This ties it to maritime safety and the well-being of people.
The carving of the Bodogak Baekbul into the rock face is significant. While the exact date remains unknown its style suggests Goryeo origins. Bodogak itself protects the Baekbul. Its construction shows care for this important image.
Okcheonam Temple is nearby. It is also connected to the Bodogak Baekbul. The temple has a long history dating back to the Silla period.
Today the Bodogak Baekbul remains a place of reverence. People come to admire its beauty and to reflect on its history. This white Buddha stands as a testament to Korean artistry. It is also a symbol of enduring faith.