Beneath Seoul’s modern skyline lies an oasis of tranquility. Bongeunsa Temple offers a journey back through centuries of Korean Buddhist history. Founded in 794 during the Silla Kingdom, it was first known as Gyeonseongsa Temple.
Imagine Queen Jeonghyeon’s dedication. She renovated and renamed the temple Bongeunsa in 1498. Bongeunsa means honoring the King. It reflected her prayers for King Seongjong’s eternal life.
For a brief period in the mid-16th century, Bongeunsa became the central temple for the Korean Seon sect of Buddhism. This happened with the support of Queen Munjeong. Monks even took their national exams here between 1552 and 1564.
Picture the scene. Monks marching during the Buddhist ceremony called Jeongdaebulsa. They carry scriptures on their heads and chant the Beopseongge. This ceremony takes place on the ninth day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar.
Bongeunsa became one of the Korean Empire’s 14 major temples in 1902. During the Japanese occupation, it oversaw 80 smaller Buddhist temples around Seoul. In the 1920s, Head Monk Cheongho displayed incredible heroism. He saved over 700 people from drowning in the Han River.
The temple faced immense challenges. A fire in 1939 destroyed many buildings. More destruction followed during the Korean War. One hall thankfully survived. Panjeon still holds woodblock carvings of the Flower Garland Sutra created in 1855.
Notice the beautiful calligraphy on the Daeung-jeon Hall. It is the work of Chusa Kim Jeong-hui.
Look up to the 23-meter-tall statue of Mireuk-bul. This is the Future Buddha that watches over Seoul. The base features Vajra Warriors. They protect the Buddha.
Bongeunsa is not only a historical site. It is also a place of practice. Visitors can participate in Temple Stay programs. These programs offer a glimpse into the life of a monk. Participants can experience Baru Gongyang. This is a traditional Buddhist temple meal eaten from special bowls.
Today, Bongeunsa Temple stands as a testament to resilience. It is a place where ancient traditions meet the modern world, offering solace and insight to all who visit.