The spreading of Buddhism on the territory of modern South Korea started back in the 4th century when the first Buddhist monk arrived there and explained the story of Buddha. In some provinces, the construction of monasteries began. However, the period of prosperity of that world’s major religion was during the reign of the Goryeo dynasty. In 527, Buddhism got the status of an official religion. So the large scale building of temples started. Today, the territory which long ago belonged to the Goryeo emperors houses lots of Buddhist shrines.

One of the oldest temples of the country which survived until today in perfect condition is the fascinating Jeungsimsa Temple. It is located in Mudeungsan National Park in the vicinity of the city of Gwangju. It was founded in 517 during the reign of a great Silla Emperor Beopheung by a Buddhist monk whose name was Cheolgamseonsa Do Yun. Since then the Buddhist adobe has been carefully preserved by dynasties each of which made their contribution to its reconstruction.

The first fundamental reconstruction of the Jeungsimsa Temple was in 1094. It was organized by a local monk Hyesoguksa and was conducted with the help of the imperial family of the Goryeo dynasty. Then in 1443, the reconstruction was continued by the representatives of the next dynasty of Joseon. However, despite the careful treatment of the sacred architecture monument, it did not keep its original state. It was totally destroyed by fire which was a result of the Japanese military forces' invasion of Korea in 1592. Only in 1970, there were started reconstruction works, thanks to which locals and curious travelers can enjoy its beauty and majesty today.

Nowadays the famous Buddhist Jeungsimsa Temple keeps a rich historical and cultural heritage. In a huge hall that can accommodate up to 500 people, you can find a wonderful statue of a sitting Buddha that dates back to the period of the Silla dynasty reign. Moreover, there are several inscriptions in ancient Sanskrit.