As the general headquarters temple of the Jogye Order—a major order
representing Korean Buddhism—Jogyesa Temple embodies the spirit of
Mahayana bodhisattvas. It was established in 1910 during the Japanese
occupation by monastics who longed for the autonomy of Korean Buddhism
and the restoration of Korean independence. Reconstructed in 1938, the
temple’s Daeungjeon (Great Hero Hall) is the largest wooden structure in
Korea, and has been designated a tangible cultural property by Seoul City.
The temple compound is open 24 hours a day, and anyone, including Koreans
and foreigners, can visit when they want. It is also home to diverse Buddhist
ceremonies and events.
