[Kulture-Issue] Globalization of K-Buddhism

What do BLACKPINK Jennie’s songs Mantra and ZEN have in common?

Both of the titles are Buddhist terms.

Riding on the hallyu wave, Korean Buddhism’s global influence is growing bigger.

We also hear a lot about the “hipness” of Buddhist culture these days.

For more on this, we are joined in the studio by HyeJu Sunim , Director of the Meditation Center at Jingwansa Temple. Welcome to the program!

1-1) Please tell us a little bit about Jingwansa Temple.

1-2) Jingwansa is also known to be a temple visited frequently by foreigners. What do tourists experience there?

2) We’ve heard that many foreign tourists are interested in Korean Buddhist culture such as temple food and temple stays. How do they come across these and grow their interest?

3) The influence of K-pop stars like Jennie with her songs that include Buddhist elements, as well as IVE member Jang Won-young’s recommendation of a Buddhist book have recently contributed to the interest in Korean Buddhism as well. Have you heard Jennie’s songs, Mantra and ZEN? If yes, what did you think of them and this kind of influence?

4) The Buddhist community itself also appears to be reaching out to the public with fun events and unique merchandise. Do you feel Korean Buddhism is becoming more and more “hip”? If yes, why?

5) The Buddhist community also hosts various programs and events to raise awareness of Korean Buddhism to the world. Could you introduce us to some of them?

6) What do you think about Buddhism being perceived as part of hallyu?

7) Do you have any upcoming events or projects you are planning that could be of interest to our viewers?

8) Finally, is there any message or Buddhist teaching you would like to share before we let you go?

Thank you very much for sharing your words with us today, Director, HyeJu Sunim.

Walter, thank you as always. We'll see you again soon.