Bongeunsa Temple
A 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple in the heart of Seoul
Bongeunsa is a historic Buddhist temple located in the heart of Gangnam, one of the busiest and most modern districts of Seoul. Founded in 794 during the Silla Dynasty, the temple has witnessed more than 1,200 years of Korean history and has played an important role in preserving and revitalizing Korean Buddhism.
Throughout its long history, Bongeunsa has been more than a place of worship. It has served as a place of practice, learning, reflection, and compassion. During the Joseon Dynasty, when Buddhism faced many restrictions, Bongeunsa became an important center for the revival of Korean Buddhism. The spirit of great Buddhist masters who practiced and taught here continues to shape the temple today.
Today, Bongeunsa remains an active Buddhist temple where monks and lay practitioners continue their daily practice. Morning and evening ceremonies, meditation, prayer, Dharma teachings, and various Buddhist traditions are still part of everyday life here.
For visitors, however, Bongeunsa does not require any knowledge of Buddhism.
Buddhist practice can begin with something very simple: slowing down, becoming aware of the present moment, and taking time to look inward. A quiet walk through the temple grounds, a cup of tea enjoyed without rushing, or a few minutes of meditation can become a small practice in itself.
Surrounded by skyscrapers and busy streets, Bongeunsa offers a rare space where the rhythm of the city suddenly becomes quieter. Rather than leaving everyday life behind, Buddhist practice encourages us to observe our minds within it and to return to our daily lives with a little more awareness, clarity, and compassion.
Visit Our Templestay Hall on Tuesdays
Every Tuesday, except on days when special temple events are held, the Bongeunsa Templestay Hall is open to visitors through our BONG-PASS program.
You are welcome to stop by and spend some time at your own pace.
Have a cup of tea.
Sit quietly and try meditation.
Explore the Templestay Hall.
Or simply take a moment to rest.
There is no need to be Buddhist, and there is no need to know how to meditate.
Come as you are, stay for a while, and experience a different rhythm of Seoul.
Sometimes, practice begins with nothing more than sitting down, taking a breath, and giving yourself a little time.
[Bongeunsa] Templestay
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[Bongeunsa's Birthday] Traditional Culture Fair
Seoul,
2026-10-11~
2026-10-13
Celebratethe 1232nd Anniversary of Bongeunsa Templewith a special cultural event in the heart of Seoul!
From October 11 to 13, Bongeunsa will host ...
Reservation
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BONG-PASS [Your Time at the Temple]
Seoul,
2026-03-01~
2026-12-31
BONG-PASS
Your time. Your pace. Your way.
Every Tuesday, Bongeunsa Templestay Hall opens its doors from 10 AM to 4 PM for you to simply slow down ...
Reservation
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[Volunteership] Experience Bongeunsa from Within ⭐
Seoul,
2026-09-02~
2026-12-31
[Experience Bongeunsa from Within]
Join BONG-PASS as a Volunteer
Ever wondered what its like to experience a Korean Buddhist temple beyond simpl...
Reservation
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Five Elements Yin Yoga Night
Seoul,
2026-07-24~
2026-10-23
Five Elements Yin Yoga Night
오행 인요가 나이트
Escape the city in five minutes. In the quiet grounds of Bongeunsa, a 1,200-year-old temple surrounded by ...
Reservation
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Regular Templestay [Sat~Sun]
Seoul,
2025-06-07~
2026-12-27
Templestay is a unique cultural program that began in Korea in 2002, allowing participants to stay at Buddhist temples and experience monastic life fi...
Reservation
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Twilight Resonance [Sunday evening Experience]
Seoul,
2026-01-01~
2026-12-27
Want to experience vivid Buddhist culture? Heres a guide to Ringing bells and evening Buddist worship rituals held every sunday evening.
Starting w...
Reservation
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[A] Temple tour & Tea [Thursday]
Seoul,
2025-01-01~
2026-12-24
Since Buddhism was first officially introduced to Korea in 372 during the reign of King Sosurim of Goguryeo, it has had a profound influence on Korean...
Reservation
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[B] Buddhist Culture [Thursday]
Seoul,
2025-04-03~
2026-12-24
Since Buddhism was first officially introduced to Korea in 372 during the reign of King Sosurim of Goguryeo, it has had a profound influence on Korean...
Reservation
