A Brief History of Buddhism in Korea (By Taeyoung Kim)

Buddhist ideologies appear to be deeply ingrained in Korean society, forming the nation’s culture, history, art, and country’s identity. During the 4th century in the Three Kingdoms period, Buddhism inspired philosophical thinking approaches in Korea and was utilized as a political tool.

Goguryeo, one of the Three Kingdoms in Ancient Korea, first adopted Buddhism through China around 372 CE, and later in the 4th and 5th centuries, the two other kingdoms, Baekje and Silla, adopted Buddhism as a significant part of their societies. The spread of Buddhism from China can be attributed to the support from the ruling elite, who took into consideration Buddhist ideology as a way of validating authority and fostering their own kingdom. Buddhist temples built during this period became hubs of education and the arts. Furthermore, Buddhist monks served as advisors to kings. The prominence of Buddhism reached its peak during the Unified Silla Period (668-935) as King Beopheung officially announced it to be the state’s religion. Artists and architects across Korea constructed numerous temples, and writers and authors contributed to the Buddhist-related scholarly writings. Seokugram Grotto and Buguksa Temples are examples of sites that were built during this era, which in the present day have become UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The spirituality and daily practices of individuals in Korea were also impacted by a specific branch of Buddhism called Zen Buddhism, known as Seon in Korea. The teachings involving self-discipline, compassion towards a goal, meditation, and enlightenment as a ritual, which in turn, have been determining the societal ethics. The belief originated in the 6th century China in where the two beliefs: Indian Buddhism and Chinese Taoism, were incorporated as one religion and spread across other parts of South and East Asia. Zen Buddhism particularly developed critical thinking skills, such as “jeong”, a unique form of empathy, among the Koreans.

During the Joseon Dynasty, around 1392-1897, Confucianism settled in Korea and became accepted as a state ideology. State examinations changed to be centered around Confucianism and its teachings, and Buddhist monks were banned from entering large communities. and In spite of this suppression, Buddhist ideology and practices continued to persist in rural villages and mountainous regions. Mountain temples such as Haein-sa served as cultural centers, and later, served as military bases during the Imjin War (1592-1598).

In modern Korea, after the Japanese occupation and the Korean War, Buddhism revived as a significant aspect of Korean life. Buddhism is one of the primary religions in South Korea, with more than a million people practicing its beliefs. Temple stays that ensure visitors experience the monastic life have become increasingly popular among tourists across the globe and Koreans, underscoring the Buddhist role taking place in culture. Buddhist groups have been supporting and contributing to disaster relief and social welfare issues. The Jogye Order, one of the largest Buddhist orders in Korea, donated over billions of won and provided free meals and shelters during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Buddhism ultimately had a lasting impact on Korea’s cultural heritage and the overall nation’s identity. As Buddhism evolved in Korea from ancient writings to modern cultural practices, it has remained an influential part of Korean society.