Few structures embody Korean Buddhism like Jogyesa Temple. Dating back to the late 14th century, it became the chief temple of the Jogye Order in 1936. The temple stands as a leading figure in Seon Buddhism in South Korea.
Initially established in 1395, Jogyesa Temple was known as Gakhwangsa Temple. This was during the dawn of the Joseon period. The modern temple emerged in 1910. It adopted the name Taegosa during the period of Japanese rule. Finally, it received its current name, Jogyesa, in 1954.
Jogyesa Temple sits in Gyeonji-dong, Jongno District, in downtown Seoul. An ancient white pine tree, a natural monument, graces the temple grounds. This temple is near the popular Insa-dong cultural street and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Once known as Gakhwangsa Temple, Jogyesa played a vital role during the Japanese colonial period. It became a fortress of Korean Buddhism resisting Japanese suppression. In 1937, a movement began. It aimed to establish a central headquarters. This culminated in the construction of Jogyesa Temple’s Main Buddha Hall in 1938.
The name Jogyesa was chosen to highlight its role as the main temple of the Jogye Order. This order integrates Korean Zen and Textual Schools of Buddhism. With a history spanning 1700 years, the Jogye Order represents Korean Buddhism. It centers on the teachings of the Buddha. It emphasizes the mind and nature.
Constructed in 1938, the Daeungjeon or Main Buddha Hall features pine wood from Baekdu Mountain. Inside, the sounds of chanting constantly fill the air. The courtyard boasts two trees, a 500-year-old White Pine and a Chinese Scholar tree.
The White Pine, about 10 meters tall, gave the nearby area its name Susong-dong. Chinese missionaries brought this tree during the Joseon period. The Lacebark pine is not well-preserved because the area is inadequate for the tree to grow. Because the Lacebark pine is a rare tree species and is valuable in biology, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.
The Chinese Scholar tree stands tall at 26 meters, silently watching over the temple grounds.
Jogyesa Temple showcases a blend of traditional temple and palace architecture. The lattice designs on the Daeungjeon’s doors and windows are unique. The temple also houses the Geuknakjeon, the Hall of Supreme Bliss. Here, the Amitabha Buddha is enshrined. You will also find the Beomjongnu. This structure houses a bell that enlightens with its sound.
To enter Jogyesa Temple, you must pass through the Iljumun or one pillar gate. It represents the separation between the mortal world and the world of Buddha.
The Jogyesa Temple is open 24 hours a day. It welcomes locals and foreigners. It positions itself as an open space. It invites everyone to the temple’s events and ceremonies. Here at Jogyesa Temple, you experience not only a place of worship. But also a center of Korean Buddhist history and culture.