As the main temple as well as the district head temple of Jogye order in Seoul, Jogyesa Temple is the center of Korean Buddhism. The temple was built in the late 14th century during the Goryeo period and was once turned into ashes due to fire and was rebuilt under the name of Gackhwangsa Temple in 1910 with the effort of many respectful monks, namely Han Yong-un and Lee Hee-gwang. The temple was given a role as the head temple of Korea’s Buddhism and renamed to Tegosa Temple in 1936. In 1954, a purification drive took place to eliminate Japanese influence and revive traditional Buddhism, which established the present day Jogyesa Temple as a result.
Jogyesa Temple plays an important role in Korean Buddhism as the head temple of Jogye order. Jogyesa Temple’s Dharma Hall serves as the main venue for several Buddhist events, holding rituals, lectures, ceremonies, and other events all year long. The annual lantern festival in celebration of Buddhist’s birthday also takes place at this temple.
Current Status
[Lacebark Pine of Jogyesa Temple] Designated as Natural Monument No. 9 (December 7, 1962)
[Daeungjeon Hall of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 127 (September 10, 2000)
[Seated Buddha of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 126 (July 15, 2000)
[Seokgabuldo of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 125 (July 15, 2000)
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