Traditional Korean Buddhist temple complex with a 23 m Maitreya Buddha statue.

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Bongeunsa

Bongeunsa, nestled in the heart of Gangnam, offers a striking juxtaposition of ancient Buddhist tradition against Seoul's modern skyline. Unlike many Korean temples, Bongeunsa is deeply rooted in Seon Buddhism, a meditative practice emphasizing direct experience. Its history stretches back to 794, though it has been rebuilt and renovated numerous times, most notably after a devastating fire in the late 19th century. The temple's Mahāyāna scriptures, numbering over 3,400, are a significant cultural treasure. A unique aspect is the temple's role in preserving the artistic legacy of Buddhist monks; many of the intricate dancheong paintings adorning the buildings were created by resident monks over generations. The towering 23-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, completed in 1996, stands as a modern symbol of hope and future enlightenment, distinct from the more common historical Buddha representations found elsewhere. Bongeunsa's location also provides a rare opportunity to witness Buddhist rituals against the backdrop of contemporary urban life, a compelling blend of the sacred and the secular.

Introduction

Bongeunsa Temple, nestled in the Gangnam-gu district of Seoul, offers unique Templestay programs providing insights into Buddhist traditions. Established in 794 A.D., the temple distinguishes itself with a large stone statue of Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha) and the ornate Daeung-jeon Hall. Bongeunsa Temple runs two distinct Templestay programs: a traditional one-night, two-day program and a shorter two-hour Thursday Templelife program. The longer program includes a temple tour, sutra writing, meditation, and morning prayers, while the Thursday program focuses on a tea ceremony and sutra writing, available from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., contingent on a minimum of three participants.

The Regular Templestay program is offered only on the first Saturday of each month. Participants can engage in Yebool, a ceremony paying respect to the Buddha and his disciples, offering a chance for self-reflection through Buddhist chanting. Temple tours highlight Korean Buddhism and culture, showcasing Buddhist cultural properties, architecture, and art. Cham-Seon (Seon meditation) teaches mindfulness and concentration, while Da-Seon (Tea Ceremony) promotes mindfulness through the sensory experience of brewing and drinking tea.

Reservations for both programs can be made online. The Regular Templestay Program costs 70,000 won for adults, while the Thursday Templelife Program costs 20,000 won. A full refund is available up to four days before the scheduled program date. Bongeunsa Templestay offers a chance to experience monastic life, purify the mind, and find introspection amidst the bustle of Seoul.

Temple Stay Program

Bongeunsa Temple stands as a major center for Seon Buddhism in the heart of Seoul, tracing its roots back to 794 when it was established by Yeon-hoe and originally named Gyeonseongsa, signifying "seeing true nature." Later rebuilt in 1498 and renamed Bongeunsa, meaning "offering benefit", it became pivotal in the revival of Korean Buddhism, serving as the head temple for the Korean Seon lineage, largely due to the devotion of the Venerable Bowoo. Historically, the temple grounds, specifically the area now occupied by COEX, known as ‘Seunggwapyeong,’ hosted national examinations for monks, producing distinguished masters who carried on the Seon legacy.

The temple's focus on meditation is a key aspect of its identity, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Bongeunsa preserves the teachings and practices of Seon Buddhism through various programs, including Templestay, which allows visitors to experience monastic life and engage in meditation. The temple actively spreads Korean Buddhism and culture, emphasizing its role as a practice-oriented center. The presence of the Meditation Center within the Bongeunsa complex further underscores its commitment to Seon practices, offering tea ceremonies and opportunities for spiritual rejuvenation. The temple's architecture and environment are designed to facilitate meditation and reflection, making it a significant site for those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of Seon Buddhism.

Seon Buddhism Center

Bongeunsa's history is punctuated by significant reconstruction efforts, reflecting its resilience through periods of conflict and change. Originally founded in 794, the temple underwent a crucial reconstruction in 1498, renamed Bongeunsa, signifying the act of honoring the king and praying for his eternal life. This transformation marked a pivotal moment during the Joseon Dynasty when Buddhism faced suppression. Later, in the mid-16th century, Queen Munjeong's support briefly revived Buddhism, establishing Bongeunsa as the central temple for the Korean Seon sect from 1551 to 1936.

Despite its importance, Bongeunsa faced destruction, most notably a fire in 1939 that decimated many buildings, followed by further damage during the Korean War. Miraculously, Panjeon, built in 1855 by Venerable Yeonggi, which housed woodblock carvings of the Flower Garland Sutra, survived. Post-war, extensive repairs and renovations have been continuously undertaken to restore Bongeunsa into a large, active complex. Daewoongjeon was rebuilt in 1982 and enshrines three wooden sitting Buddhas. These ongoing efforts underscore Bongeunsa's enduring legacy, blending historical preservation with modern adaptation in the heart of Seoul.

Historical Reconstruction

Bongeunsa Temple in Seoul features a towering 28-meter (91-foot) statue of Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, completed in 1986. This makes it one of the tallest stone statues in South Korea. Overlooking the city with a serene smile, the Maitreya statue is a main attraction within the temple grounds. At its base, Vajra warriors stand guard, protecting the Buddha.

The statue is located in a separate open square and is fronted by the Mireuk-jeon Hall, a sacred praying area where visitors remove their shoes to pray respectfully on their knees. The presence of the Maitreya Buddha reflects Bongeunsa's embrace of the Seon (Zen) sect of Buddhism, inspiring contemplation on the future and salvation.

The Maitreya statue stands in contrast to the modern skyline, offering a unique juxtaposition of ancient spirituality and contemporary Seoul. The statue symbolizes Maitreya's descent to earth to save those who are suffering. The statue is a key element in the temple's landscape, drawing visitors to reflect on Buddhist teachings and the promise of a future guided by compassion.

Bongeunsa

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