Save places from Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and more
Bongeunsa
Attraction
4.5 (6572 reviews)
Traditional Korean Buddhist temple complex with a 23 m Maitreya Buddha statue.
531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
+82 2-3218-4800
Did You Know?
Year of Origin
While the temple was officially founded in 794, legend says a monk named Yeonhoe built a small hermitage on the site even earlier.
Royal Patronage
Queen Jeonghyeon, the wife of King Seongjong of the Joseon Dynasty, heavily supported the temple, leading to its expansion and prominence.
Zen Buddhism Focus
Bongeunsa is a major center for Seon (Zen) Buddhism in South Korea, offering meditation programs and retreats.
Buddhist Scriptures
The temple houses over 3,479 Buddhist scriptures, including a collection of woodblock carvings of the Avatamsaka Sutra.
Highlights from Reviews
• peaceful atmosphere
Many reviewers highlight the temple's serene and calming atmosphere, offering a break from the city's hustle.
• beautiful architecture
Visitors consistently praise the temple's beautiful architecture and design, reflecting traditional Korean aesthetics.
• beautiful gardens
The temple's gardens are well-maintained and offer a tranquil space for relaxation and contemplation.
• free admission
Many reviewers appreciate that admission to the temple is free, making it accessible to all visitors.
• convenient location
The temple's proximity to the COEX mall and accessibility via public transport make it easy to visit.
Featured in
Explore Seoul's Diverse Neighborhoods and Attractions
National Museum of Korea, War Memorial of Korea, Banpo Hangang Park
Temples and Malls in Seoul
Starfield Coex Mall, Starfield Library
25 Seoul Districts Highlighted: A Curated Travel Guide
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, SeMA - Seoul Museum of Art, Haneul Park
Best Neighborhoods for Tourists in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower
Seoul's Top 25 Art And Nature Destinations
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, SeMA - Seoul Museum of Art, Haneul Park
Seoul's Traditional Palaces, Temples, and Villages
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, National Museum of Korea
Seoul's Top Autumn Foliage Destinations
Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, LOTTE WORLD TOWER
Six Seoul Attractions Recommended By Locals
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, Seokchon Lake, Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Seoul Attractions: Palaces, Markets, and Modern Marvels
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwangjang Market, Starfield Library
Gangnam's Temples, Cafes, Stores, and Spas
NUDAKE Haus Dosan, Nyunyu House myeongdong - Harmony Fresh Mart, 두피 마사지 어헤드 헤드스파 | AHEAD Head Spa | AHEAD ヘッドスパ
Explore Gangnam's Shopping, Dining, and Nightlife Hotspots
Starfield Coex Mall, Garosu-gil, Coex Aquarium