Suncheon Travel Must-Visit! Songgwangsa Temple, Korea's Seungbo Temple

Songgwangsa Temple, located in Songgwang-myeon, Suncheon City, Jeollanam-do, is the head temple of the 21st district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It is one of the representative Seon (Zen) Buddhist temples in Korea. Originally established as a small hermitage by Monk Hyerin during the late Silla period, it was later reconstructed by National Preceptor Jinul during the Goryeo Dynasty, evolving into a central hub for Seon Buddhism. Known as the 'Seungbo Temple,' Songgwangsa has produced 16 National Preceptors, including Jinul, making it a revered site for high monks. The temple houses numerous cultural treasures, including the Wooden Triad Buddha Shrine (National Treasure No. 42), the Goryeo King Gojong's Edict (National Treasure No. 43), and the National Preceptor Hall (National Treasure No. 56), showcasing its immense cultural and historical value. The temple exemplifies traditional Buddhist architecture and offers a serene mountain temple atmosphere. It is a place for meditation, Seon practice, and various Buddhist rituals. Notably, the National Preceptor Hall enshrines portraits of the 16 National Preceptors produced by Songgwangsa from 1200 to 1428, making it a historically significant structure. 📍Address: 100, Songgwangsa-gil, Songgwang-myeon, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-do, South Korea.