Bongeunsa Temple, A Tranquil Sanctuary Amidst Urban Hustle

73 Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

3.9

Introduction

Bongeunsa is located in the northern part of the COEX Convention & Exhibition Center in South Korea. It was founded in the 10th year of the reign of King Hyegong of Silla (794 AD) and was originally called Jeongseongsa Temple. In 1498, Queen Jeongseon, the queen consort of King Seongjong, renovated the temple on a large scale and renamed it Bongeunsa Temple. The temple was originally located east of King Seongjong's tomb (Sunneung), but was moved about one kilometer southwest to the new location during the reign of King Myeongjong in the Joseon Dynasty. Even though it is located in the bustling city center, this ancient temple is still magnificent and grand after more than 1200 years of history. Bongeunsa was founded by the eminent monk, Master Yeonhui, during the Silla Dynasty, and the Daeungjeon Hall, high above the surrounding area, represents the value of this ancient temple.