On March 28, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, a predominantly Buddhist country. The disaster claimed the lives of more than 3,800 people and left over 5,000 injured. It also caused widespread destruction of infrastructure including buildings and roads, and severely damaged many Buddhist temples, which serve as vital spiritual centers for the people of Myanmar.

From July 23 to 29, the Jogye Order's public donation foundation Dreaminus, chaired by Ven. Jinwoo, visited Myanmar to deliver relief funds and supplies, conducting compassionate outreach in support of earthquake recovery efforts. The donations, raised through a nationwide fundraising campaign among Korean Buddhists starting April 1, totaled approximately about $180,000 and were delivered to the affected areas.

On July 24, the relief team visited the Sagaing branch of the Sitagu Buddhist Association, where they handed over $120,000 in aid. The funds are designated for five key areas: Mandalay Hospital, the capital region, Sitagu Buddhist University, the Vipassana Association, and local temples.

On July 25, support reached 1,200 households in 12 remote villages, including the distribution of solar-powered lamps, food kits, toys for children, and the installation of water purification systems and wells. These villages, which are so remote they do not appear on maps, had yet to receive help from other aid organizations, making the support all the more significant.

On July 26, the team visited Nyaung Kone and Lein Kone villages, providing residents with daily necessities such as rice, salt, cooking oil, aluminum pots, and baskets.

Ven. Ilhwa, the Executive Director of Dreaminus, shared,

“Despite the devastation from the earthquake and the ongoing hardships caused by the coup, the people of Myanmar continue to smile with such innocence. That makes me feel happiness in return.” He added, “I’m sorry that the support was delayed due to various circumstances. I sincerely hope the earthquake damage is quickly repaired and that peace is restored within the country.”