The temple was originally founded as Gyeonseongsa under the name Buksa during the reign of King Wonseong.
It was moved to its current location by Queen Munjeong in 1549 and renamed Bongeunsa.
The complex houses 3,479 wooden blocks of the Avatamsaka Sutra, which are designated as a tangible cultural asset.
It is one of the few places in Seoul where you can find traditional Buddhist lifestyle practices occurring amidst a major financial district.
The temple traditionally served as the head training center for monks taking the state-administered Buddhist examination during the Joseon Dynasty.
Bongeunsa Temple is a historic Buddhist complex located in the heart of Seoul's Gangnam business district, founded in 794 during the Silla Dynasty. It is most notable for its 23-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, which overlooks the surrounding high-rise urban skyline. The temple grounds house several traditional wooden halls, including the main Daewoongjeon hall, decorated with intricate Buddhist paintings. It serves as a center for the Seon (Zen) school of Buddhism and offers active temple stay programs for visitors. The site is uniquely positioned on the slopes of Suseo Mountain, creating a contrast between ancient spiritual architecture and modern skyscrapers. It serves as the primary temple for the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism within the Gangnam region.
The staircase leading up to the Maitreya Buddha statue, framing the statue against the backdrop of the Gangnam skyline.
Visit the temple store to see handmade Buddhist crafts and traditional tea sets.
Check the official website for temple stay schedules if you wish to participate in early morning chanting and tea ceremonies.
Stay for the evening when the temple lanterns are lit, providing a different atmosphere compared to daylight.
Do not take photos of monks without permission and avoid walking directly in the center of the temple hall entrance.
Open daily throughout the year; some areas may be restricted during private Buddhist ceremonies.
Remove shoes before entering temple halls; maintain silence; dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
