Buddhist temple Project: Practice 08
Almost all historical Buddhist temples in Korea are situated in the deep mountains, even in Seoul. However, Bongeun-Sa is located in the central Gangnam area, the most expensive real estate in Seoul. Its traditional Korean architecture, surrounded by skyscrapers, creates its peculiar view.
History
It has about 1,500 years of history. The Gangnam area was relatively undeveloped until the 1970s, previously consisting of rural areas filled with farms and ponds. Despite suppression of Buddhism during the Joseon dynasty, Bongeun-Sa survived by dedicating itself to the tombs of Joseon Kings. It used to enshrine the king’s tablets and offer facilities for ritual ceremonies. Additionally, thanks to Queen Munjeong’s love for Buddhism, this temple was allowed to operate the Seunggwa test, a test for becoming a Buddhist monk. As a result, the temple produced some of the greatest Buddhist monks dedicated to protecting the country from foreign invasions.
Develop
In the 1970s, Seoul faced overpopulation due to job seekers from the countryside. President JeongHee Park initiated a plan to expand Seoul to the south of the Han River, leading to the development of Gangnam. The Parliament House was built on Yeouido Island, and prestigious schools began to relocate from the north to the south. Many prominent companies also constructed their office buildings and residential areas. Suddenly, Bongeun-Sa found itself situated in the center of Gangnam and became a temple with valuable land.
Even though it is situated amidst skyscrapers, Bongeun-Sa maintains a traditional form of a Buddhist temple. Despite cars driving along the roads, it exudes tranquility and peace akin to a temple deep in the mountains. Hence, one might encounter office workers strolling in the temple during their lunch breaks.
Construction
As a gateway, visitors need to pass through Ilju-Mun (gate of one pillar). This gate has traveled to other temples several times due to Bongeun-Sa’s expansion in 1986. It was restored to its original temple in 2020, through the efforts of the abbot monk. To the right of Ilju-Mun, there is a Buddhist souvenir shop and a restaurant. Unfortunately, the temple does not have a valley or stream, but Cheonwang-Mun (gate of four heavenly kings) stands as a strong guardian of the temple.
Main hall
Due to its main Buddha being Sakyamuni, the main hall is DaeWoong-Jeon. Amitabha (Buddha of Western heaven) and YaksaYerae (healing Buddha) are his attendants. DaeWoong-Jeon faces BeopWang-Ru (pavilion of Buddha), commonly used as an auditorium for large ceremonies. Behind DaeWoong-Jeon, a small path leads people to stroll the hill. From there, one can overlook the roofs of traditional buildings, and the surrounding trees and flowers are refreshing to the mind.
Symbolic buddha, Maitreya
On the way down the hill, we encounter a huge Buddha statue known as Mireuk (Maitreya: Future Buddha). Due to the temple’s location, Mireuk wearing a cap resembles a graduation cap. During the national high school exams, it creates a splendid view with parents praying for their children.
Oldest building
Next to the Mireuk statue, the oldest building, Pan-Jeon, is located. Built in 1855 to enshrine the Tripitaka, its tablet was inscribed by the historical calligrapher JeongHee Kim. Despite its 1,500 years of history, most buildings are relatively recent constructions. This is because BongEun-Sa was relocated to this site to guard the King’s tomb.
Relaxing
Finally, we enjoy traditional teas in YenHoi-Ru (Pavilion of Meet Destiny), located next to BeopWang-ru (Pavilion of Buddha), offering urban scenery through its windows. It’s a truly relaxing experience. BongEun-Sa is currently constructing new buildings, and I’m curious to see them on my next visit. This temple is evolving in real time
Information
Address
531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Website
Relevant tourist attraction
Coex convention and Exhibition center
Across from BongEun-Sa is the exhibition and convention center, featuring the symbolic Byeolmadang library, a popular tourist spot. Nearby attractions include an aquarium, theater, and the Starfield underground shopping mall.
Address
513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Website
Seollenung and Jeongneung Royal tomb
It’s the burial ground for the 9th and 11th kings and queens of the Joseon dynasty. Recognized by UNESCO in 2009 for its preservation of Neo-Confucianism and feng shui. About 25 minutes from BongEun-Sa.
Address
1 Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Gangnam-gu
Website
EZsPEDIA © 2024 by YUNMI LEE is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
EZ K-PEDIA 
Leave a comment