UNESCO World Heritage, Magoksa Temple
Magoksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Magoksa Temple, founded in 640 AD by the Silla monk Jajang Yulsa, holds over 1,500 years of history. It was renovated in 1172 during the Goryeo dynasty by Bojo Guksa and later rebuilt by Beomil Daeja. Recognized for its historical and cultural significance in Korean Buddhism, Magoksa was inscribed as Korea's 13th UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside other temples such as Sunamsa, Tongdosa, Buseoksa, Bongjeongsa, Beopjusa, and Daeheungsa. The temple is an important symbol of Korea's Buddhist culture and history.
[Table of Contents]
4. landscape of a Buddhist temple
6. Magoksa and Baekbeom Kim Gu
1. Introduction to Magoksa
Magoksa Temple, located on the eastern side of Taehwa Mountain in Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do, is the head temple of the 6th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The temple's name, "Magoksa," is derived from the gathering of followers during the teachings of the Silla monk Bocheol Hwasang, who compared them to three generations of hemp trees. Magoksa is one of Korea's prominent Buddhist temples, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Korean Mountain Monasteries. The surrounding area was designated as Chungcheongnam-do Cultural Heritage No. 192 in 2018. The temple offers a Temple Stay program every month, allowing visitors to escape from their routines and find peace through meditation and rest. Magoksa’s natural beauty is celebrated throughout the year, especially with cherry blossoms in the spring, drawing many visitors.
- Directions: 966, Magoksa-ro, Sagok-myeon, Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do
- Visitor Information: 041-841-6220~3
- Temple Stay: 041-841-6226
- Admission: Free (Parking fee: 4,000 KRW)
2. Historical Significance
Magoksa Temple has been a key center of Korean Buddhism since the Three Kingdoms period. During the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, many monks lived at the temple, contributing significantly to the spread and development of Buddhism. The temple is home to valuable architectural structures, such as the Daeungbojeon Hall and Yeongsanjeon Hall, both of which exemplify traditional Korean architecture. These buildings, along with other temple artifacts, were designated as cultural treasures in 1984 and later recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Magoksa has witnessed numerous important historical events. During the Imjin War, it served as a refuge, and it also provided sanctuary to independence leader Kim Gu, who hid there during the Japanese occupation.
3. Major Cultural Assets
Founded by the renowned monk Jajang Yulsa of the Silla Dynasty, Magoksa Temple originally housed more than 30 rooms. Today, it retains key structures, including the Daeungbojeon, Daegwangbojeon, Yeongsanjeon, Sacheonwangmun, and Haetalmun gates, as well as a five-story stone pagoda and other artifacts. The Daeungbojeon, designated Treasure No. 801, symbolizes the Buddha Sakyamuni and is located at the highest point of the temple grounds. The Daegwangbojeon, rebuilt after wear from time, stands in front of the Daeungbojeon. Yeongsanjeon, the oldest surviving structure at Magoksa, dates back to 1650 and is designated Treasure No. 800. The five-story stone pagoda in front of the Daegwangbojeon is a unique structure built in the Tibetan style and is designated as Treasure No. 799.
4. landscape of a Buddhist temple
Magoksa Temple is nestled in the serene surroundings of Taehwasan Mountain, surrounded by dense forests and valley streams. The temple, located on the mountainside, is surrounded by pine trees, and the area harmonizes the lush forest and clean valley waters. In spring, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms, while summer offers lush greenery. The fall foliage attracts many visitors, and some walk the Baekbeom Meditation Trail, following in the footsteps of Kim Gu. The temple’s tranquil setting, enhanced by lanterns floating along the stream, creates a peaceful atmosphere. The temple preserves many national treasures and cultural assets, offering visitors a space for reflection and artistic appreciation.
5. Templestay
Magoksa offers a Templestay program, allowing visitors to experience Buddhist practices while walking through a 5 km pine forest trail. The program offers a deep spiritual experience, including activities like morning prayers, meditation (seon), alms bowl offerings, and tea ceremonies. Through these activities, participants learn basic Buddhist practices while enhancing their body and mind. The temple also runs a summer Buddhist school for elementary school students, offering Buddhist education and nature experiences. For visitors seeking rest, a special program provides time for reflection and meditation in the tranquil surroundings of the Baekbeom Meditation Trail.
6. Magoksa and Baekbeom Kim Gu
Magoksa is historically significant for its connection to Baekbeom Kim Gu, the first president of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. After his involvement in the assassination of a Japanese officer, Kim Gu hid at Magoksa in 1898 to escape arrest. He left the temple in 1899 to continue his activism and played a pivotal role in the independence movement. After Korea’s liberation, Kim Gu visited Magoksa and planted both hibiscus and incense trees. The incense tree still remains at the temple, symbolizing his lasting connection to the site.
7. Closing
Magoksa, located in Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, is an important cultural heritage site in Korean Buddhist history. With its rich architectural features from the late Baekje and Unified Silla periods, including the Daeungbojeon, Daegwangbojeon, and Yeongsanjeon halls, it attracts visitors year-round for pilgrimage and meditation. The temple, which was founded during the Silla Dynasty, was recognized for its historical value and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018. Today, it is preserved and managed as an important part of Korea’s cultural legacy.
