By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee
Nestled within the embrace of a mountain temple bathed in sunset light in Miwon-myeon, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju City, Chungcheongbuk-do, Byeoksachobuljeongsa Temple opens the door to a new era on October 1.
The Diplomatic Art Center, opening on the temple's first floor, is a stage for cultural diplomacy where the spirit of Buddhism, the fragrance of art, and international diplomacy converge.
Records of peace with the world
The opening commemorative exhibition at the Diplomatic Art Center begins with an international photography exhibition featuring 20 countries. Scenes of war and peace, life and hope captured by photographers from each nation are displayed side by side, conveying a message of reconciliation and empathy that transcends borders.
Notably, a photo exhibition on the Korean War, previously held at the United Nations, will also be held, marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War and reminding us once again of the preciousness of peace.
he Bukgwan Victory Monument (Bukgwandaecheopbi) National Movement Central Committee (Star who saved the country, General Jeong Mun-bu)
Additionally, a restored exhibition of the Bukgwan Victory Monument honoring General Jeong Mun-bu, the Star of National Salvation, will be presented. This exhibition, which revives a model monument that was imprisoned behind bars at Japan's Yasukuni Shrine while bearing a one-ton stone, evokes historical justice and national memory.
Alongside this, approximately 250 pieces will be displayed, including handwritten works by Venerable Ilbong and other eminent monks, K-minhwa (Korean folk paintings), Western paintings, traditional antique furniture and sculptures, and works by intangible cultural heritage masters specializing in blue-lacquered wood. This creates a unique scene where Buddhism, Korean traditional art, and contemporary art converge.
Culture, memory, and the world
Byeoksachobuljeongsa is not just a temple.
It is a thousand-year-old sanctuary of incense and prayer, a hall of culture and memory that inherits Buddhist art and Korean traditional culture.
The garden features over 200 sculptures and ancient jars, offering visitors a tranquil space for contemplation. The newly opened Daewoongjeon Hall will become a majestic symbol of Buddhist faith.
Furthermore, Byeoksachobuljeongsa aims to be a multicultural exchange venue guaranteeing rest and human rights for foreign migrant workers, as well as a globally recognized Buddhist and cultural complex.
The Diplomatic Art Center is designed as a multifunctional cultural space equipped with ample parking space and large dining facilities, capable of hosting international forums, academic seminars, exhibitions, performances, and Buddhist services.
A representative of Byeoksachobuljeongsa Temple stated: "The Diplomatic Art Center is an open stage where Buddhism, art, and diplomacy unite.
This October 1 will mark a historic moment where Korean Buddhism, art, and international culture breathe together."
