Bongjeongsa Temple, Andong

Site details

Bongjeongsa Temple, located on Cheondeungsan Mountain, is said to have been founded in 672 (the 12th year of King Munmu's reign) by Neungin, a disciple of the great monk Uisang. The name "Bongjeong" (鳳停) means "the phoenix stays," reflecting the serene and sheltered atmosphere of the temple, surrounded by dense forests and mountains. After climbing the steep steps and passing through Manseru Pavilion, the entrance to the temple, you enter the temple grounds, where a collection of ancient pavilions stands. Each of these buildings is constructed in a different architectural style, making a tour around Bongjeongsa Temple akin to tracing the history of wooden architecture. Architecturally significant pavilions at Bongjeongsa Temple include the Geungnakjeon Hall and the Daeungjeon Hall. Each of these halls is structured with its own courtyard, embodying the faith in Amitabha Buddha and Shakyamuni Buddha, respectively. The Geungnakjeon Hall at Bongjeongsa, the oldest surviving wooden building in Korea, emulates the architectural style of the Unified Silla period. In contrast, the Daeungjeon Hall reflects the architectural styles of the late Goryeo and early Joseon periods. Additionally, the Hwaeomgangdang Hall, where monks study the fundamental teachings of Buddhism, and the Gogeumdang Hall, which is believed to be an annex for enshrining Buddha statues, also draw attention for their diverse architectural techniques. These structures add to the rich architectural heritage of Bongjeongsa Temple. Geungnakjeon Hall at Bongjeongsa Temple in Andong: Originally called Daejangjeon, the name was later changed to Geungnakjeon. During restoration work in 1972, a record detailing roof repairs from 1363 (the 12th year of King Gongmin's reign during the Goryeo Dynasty) was discovered. Considering that traditional wooden structures typically undergo major repairs approximately 100 to 150 years after their construction, it is estimated that Geungnakjeon Hall was originally built in the early 1200s. This makes it recognized as the oldest existing wooden building in Korea. Daeungjeon Hall at Bongjeongsa Temple in Andong: The main hall of Bongjeongsa, Daeungjeon, enshrines the Shakyamuni Buddha Triad. Based on records discovered during its dismantling and restoration in 1962, the hall is believed to be a structure from the early Joseon period. The interior of the building still retains well-preserved dancheong (traditional decorative coloring on wooden buildings), providing important material for studying the patterns and designs of that era. Hwaeomgangdang Hall at Bongjeongsa Temple in Andong: This hall is where monks study the fundamental teachings of Buddhism. According to records such as the Yangbeopdang Jungsu-gi (Record of the Restoration of Yangbeop Hall), it is believed that Hwaeomgangdang was renovated in the 17th century, around the same time as the Geungnakjeon and Daeungjeon Halls within the same temple complex. The building, characterized by its calm and stable construction, is a valuable asset in the study of traditional Korean architecture. Photo Credit: National Heritage Portal, Korea Heritage Service