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Movie night in the art studio
Willem Dafoe, Oscar Isaac, Rupert Friend and Mads Mikkelsen come together in amazing film “At Eternities Gate” directed by Julian Schnabel.
During a self-imposed exile in Arles and Auvers-Sur-Oise, France, Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh develops his unique, colorful style of painting. While grappling with religion, mental illness and a tumultuous friendship with French artist Paul Gauguin, van Gogh begins to focus on his relationship with eternity rather than the pain his art causes him in the present.
It is a FREE event with some snacks and drinks at additional cost.
DM for reservations and inquiries.
https://naughtymusestudios.com/2/
403134183_17917831829820770_7277474376337793813_n.jpegBaengryeonam Hermitage – 백련암 (Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do)
Baengryeonam Hermitage is located on the Haeinsa Temple grounds in Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do. Additionally, it’s situated the furthest east of all the hermitages on the Haeinsa Temple grounds. Also, Baengryeonam Hermitage is the highest in elevation on Mt. Gayasan of the Haeinsa Temple hermitages, as well. It’s unknown as to when the hermitage was first built, and it’s also unknown who first built Baengryeonam Hermitage. We do know, however, that the hermitage was reconstructed in 1605 by the monk Soam, who was a disciple of Seosan-daesa (1520-1604). Legend has it that during the Imjin War (1592-98), when the Japanese were invading the Korean Peninsula in 1592, that Soam protected Haeinsa Temple through his reputation alone. The Japanese wanted to invade, and were even occupying the neighbouring hillside at Haeinsa Temple, but they didn’t dare invade the temple. Sounds a little far-fetched to me, but that’s the legend all the same.
More recently, the hermitage became famous for being the home hermitage to the monk Seongcheol (1912-93). Not only was Seongcheol the Supreme Patriarch of the Jogye Order, but he was also believed to be a living Buddha in Korea because of his extremely austere lifestyle. And since his passing, and over the past couple of years, the hermitage has undergone extensive renovations, rebuilds, and reconstruction.
Hermitage LayoutYou first make your way towards Baengryeonam Hermitage past a cluster of hermitages. Baengryeonam Hermitage is the last hermitage up this road that also hosts three other Haeinsa Temple hermitages. The walk is beautiful and ends at the Baengryeonam Hermitage parking lot. To your right, you’ll see a grouping of buildings that include the monks’ dorms. But it’s to the left, and around the winding road, that you want to go.
In a forested area, and beneath a large tree, you’ll find a modern seven-story stone pagoda. Keep heading up the road and past the pagoda. Just beyond the trees and the pagoda is a shrine hall with a natural wood finish that is decorated with gold trim. Even the dragons up near the eaves are golden, as well. The panels surrounding the exterior walls are adorned with beautiful, yet simplistic, Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals). Taking a peek inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, and past the golden latticework, you’ll notice a triad of statues on the main altar. Seated in the centre of this triad is a statue of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha). Standing on either side of Seokgamoni-bul are statues dedicated to Munsu-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom) and Bohyeon-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Power). The triad rests under an ornate datjib (canopy) with two inward looking dragons (one gold and one blue).
To the right rear of the Daeung-jeon Hall is the Dokseong-gak Hall. The shaman shrine hall is perched above the rest of the hermitage grounds and has just enjoyed a beautiful new coat of dancheong around its exterior walls. There is another shrine hall that’s situated above the rest of the temple grounds just like the Dokseong-gak Hall; but instead of being dedicated to a shaman deity, it’s a Josa-jeon Hall, which honours and commemorates famous monks that once called Baengryeonam Hermitage home. However, to get to this diminutive Josa-jeon Hall, you’ll need to make your way back down the stairs you first came up and head east towards the administrative office. It’s to the left of what looks to be a re-purposed elevated shrine hall that you’ll find the stairs that lead up to the Josa-jeon Hall.
As for the large, seemingly, re-purposed shrine hall, this shrine hall is now dedicated to commemorate the monk Seongchol. When I visited, the shrine hall was still under construction from the floorboards out in front of the shrine hall, to the murals adorning the exterior of this hall. The only thing that wasn’t under construction was the interior of this shrine hall dedicated to Seongchol. Stepping inside this unpainted building, you’ll find a large bronze statue dedicated to Seongchol on the main altar under a large blue and green canopy. I’ve never seen such a large shrine hall dedicated to a single monk at any of the historic temples in Korea and this includes the shrine hall dedicated to Samyeong-daesa (1544-1610) at Jikjisa Temple and the Pyochungsa shrine hall at Daeheungsa Temple. This shrine hall at Baengryeonam Hermitage is definitely a statement.
To the right of the shrine hall dedicated to Seongchol, and past the administrative office, you’ll find an older Yosachae (monks’ dorms), which was presumably used by Seongchol with how it’s preserved and honoured. There are two additional buildings in the area. One appears to be another shrine hall, but it was under construction when I visited. And the other building appears to be more monks’ dorms.
How To Get ThereTo get to Baengryeonam Hermitage, you’ll first need to get to Haeinsa Temple. And to get to Haeinsa Temple, you’ll first need to get to the Seobu Bus Terminal in Daegu. From here, you can catch an express bus to Haeinsa Temple. This express bus departs every 40 minutes, and the bus ride lasts about an hour and a half. After arriving at Haeinsa Temple, you’ll need to head south from the Iljumun Gate. You’ll pass by a collection of biseok (stele) and budo (stupa). There is a mountain road with a large rock and sign markers that point you towards the four hermitages in this area of the Haeinsa Temple grounds. You’ll first pass by both Huirangdae Hermitage and Jijokam Hermitage along the way. Keep heading east until you eventually come to Baengryeonam Hermitage. In total, the walk from Haeinsa Temple to Baengryeonam Hermitage takes about 36 minutes, or 1.4 km, up a mountainside road.
Overall Rating: 5/10Baengryeonam Hermitage is one of the most beautifully situated hermitages on the Haeinsa Temple grounds. In addition to all of its natural beauty, there are several shrine halls that visitors can enjoy and explore; however, it’s yet to be determined just how much of a change the hermitage will undergo, as there is a lot of construction currently taking place at Baengryeonam Hermitage. As for the shrine halls that are open to the public, the natural wood and gold trimmed Daeung-jeon Hall is definitely a highlight, as are the Dokseong-gak Hall and the Josa-jeon Hall. But arguably the greatest highlight to Baengryeonam Hermitage is the large shrine hall dedicated to the master monk, Seongchol. Baengryeonam Hermitage is definitely one of the top three hermitages at Haeinsa Temple.
The seven-story stone pagoda and golden Daeung-jeon Hall behind it. A look towards the monks’ dorms to the right of the hermitage parking lot. The golden Daeung-jeon Hall at Baengryeonam Hermitage. One of the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the exterior walls of the main hall. The beautiful main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall. A look up at the large shrine hall dedicated to the famed monk Seongchol. The exterior of the yet to be finished shrine hall dedicated to Seongchol. The view from the Seongchol shrine hall. A look inside the shrine hall dedicated to Seongchol with a bronze statue of the famed monk on the main altar. The Yosachae at Baengryeonam Hermitage. The uniquely designed stone pagoda in the hermitage courtyard. A finely balanced boulder at Baengryeonam Hermitage.Busan International Art Fair @ BEXCO
○ Period: December 7-11, 2023
○ Venue: BEXCO
○ Hours of Operation:
Dec. 7 noon - 7 p.m.
Dec. 8-10 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 11 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
○ Tickets: 10,000 won for adults / 5,000 won students
○ For more info.: (051)806-1004
○ Website: http://www.biaf.kr/
Is there much in the way of counseling in Busan?
I know that up in Seoul there are many counselors available. How about Busan? Any that you might recommend?
Myself, I'm a counselor available via Skype video in Vancouver. (The very first 30 min. block is free, in case you are interested.) Thank you.
Yvon
Location: Forum Category:
Winter Watercolor. Christmas cards.
Christmas mood! Winter watercolor ^^
Will paint Christmas cards.
This December. Every Sunday 2 p.m.
Songjeong station
Book: https://naughtymusestudios.com/2/
www.instagram.com/naughty.muse.studios/
Tel: +82 10 5232 2873
image-17-11-23-08-55-1.jpegChristmas cards. Watercolor
Christmas mood! Winter watercolor ^^
Will paint Christmas cards.
This December. Every Sunday 2 p.m.
Songjeong station
Book: https://naughtymusestudios.com/2/
www.instagram.com/naughty.muse.studios/
Tel: +82 10 5232 2873
image-17-11-23-08-55.jpegBGN Eye Hospital Thanksgiving Day Event
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Event 14.11.pngF5 Visa Holder Seeks Morning Part Time Job
Professional teacher/trainer/coach with an F5 Visa, Education degree, teacher's license, and TESOL certificate is seeking a morning part-time job Monday to Friday between the hours of 8 am to 12 pm.
- F5 Visa
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- ADA Judge Certified
- Have given over 450 speeches since 2012
- Extensive Proofreading and editing experience
- English Coach @Kosin Christian Hospital, Dong A University Hospital, PNU Hospital, KMTC, GS-Hydro Korea, Stauff Korea, Sek Hi Hi Tech Korea, Kellogs Korea, Tae Kwang, Changshin and Cho Kwang Paint.
If you are looking for professional coaching, teaching, tutoring, proofreading or editing, feel free to contact me.
(F-Visa) Native English Speaker looking for Part-Time Teaching Job
Native English Speaker from the USA. Have taught a range of subjects from phonics, writing, speaking, and reading to conversational speaking, debate, TOEIC, and SAT Prep.
- 3+ years of English Teaching experience in Korea (children and adults).
- Looking to start in March 2024 in Busan, but flexible to start earlier or later.
- F visa holder.
Seeking only part-time positions.
Please contact via email for resume.
“OUCH!” How to Express Pain in Korean | Korean FAQ
Here are the most common ways how to say "it hurts" in Korean, and how to use each of them. This was requested by a few of my subscribers and took a while to put together, as there are so many different ways. I only included the most essential ways in this video, starting with the most common ones you should know.
This video teaches the words 아프다, 따갑다, 쑤시다, 쓰리다, 두통, 치통, 복통, 맵다, 욱신거리다, 저리다, 쥐(가) 나다, 얼얼하다, 뻐근하다, and how to use each of them.
The post “OUCH!” How to Express Pain in Korean | Korean FAQ appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.
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Geumgoksa Temple – 금곡사 (Gangjin, Jeollanam-do)
Geumgoksa Temple is located in northern Gangjin, Jeollanam-do in the foothills of Mt. Ilbongsan (411.8 m). According to some, Geumgoksa Temple was first founded during the reign of Queen Seondeok of Silla (r. 632 – 647 A.D.) by a Silla monk named Milbon. At this time, it’s believed that the temple was called Seongmunsa Temple. However, this story seems unlikely, as the land that Geumgoksa Temple is situated upon belonged to the Baekje Kingdom (18 B.C. – 660 A.D.). So it doesn’t make a ton of sense that a Silla monk would travel to Baekje Kingdom land to found a Buddhist temple.
Much later, and according to the “Donggukyeojiseungram,” which was compiled in 1481, the temple was finally referred to as Geumgoksa Temple. In 1592, Geumgoksa Temple was used as a training ground for part of the Righteous Army during the Imjin War (1592-98). Geumgoksa Temple was destroyed by fire during the Imjin War by the invading Japanese. The temple wouldn’t be rebuilt until Japanese Colonial Rule (1910-45) upon the former temple site. The temple would further be rebuilt and expanded in 1969. Then in 1984, Geumgoksa Temple became a Taego-jong Order temple.
As for the name of the temple, it’s called Geumgoksa Temple because there was a former gold mine in the area. In fact, there is a cave, whose depths are unknown, next to a stream near the temple grounds. This could be the source of the temple’s name.
Geumgoksa Temple is home to a Korean Treasure, the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple,” which is Korean Treasure #829.
Temple LayoutYou first make your way up towards Geumgoksa Temple through a couple of large boulders on either side of the road leading up to the temple. To the right of the temple parking lot is a serene stream. Up a large set of stairs, you’ll find the five metre tall “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple.” The large pagoda consists of a single-story stylobate at the base. Above the stout base is the body, which stands three-stories in height. Unfortunately, the finial which once adorned the top of the pagoda has been lost through the passage of time, and the pagoda has been damaged in part throughout. More specfically, the stylobate consists of four pillars at the edge with a flat stone between these pillars. This style of construction with corner pillars without a pattern engraved on it is similar to the “Five-Story Stone Pagoda at Jeongnimsa Temple Site” in Buyeo, Chungcheongnam-do. The first story of this pagoda, the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple,” has a niche on all four sides. Typically in a wooden pagoda, the niche would function as a place to house an image of a Buddha. However, in a stone structure, it appears to be more decorative than anything. Overall, the pagoda has beautiful proportions. The “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple” was built during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392); however, it still retains some stylistic aspects from the Baekje Kingdom (18 B.C. – 660 A.D.).
Framing the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple” is the Daeung-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to the Daeung-jeon Hall are adorned with fading Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) and Palsang-do (The Eight Scenes from the Buddha’s Life). Of the two, the Shim-do are placed below those of the Palsang-do. At the front of the main hall, you’ll find two decorative dragons on either side of the signboard with long, white whiskers. There is also some beautiful floral latticework adorning the front of the Daeung-jeon Hall, as well. Stepping inside the main hall, you’ll find a triad of statues under a large, red canopy. Resting in the centre of this triad is an image of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha). This central statue is joined on either side by Munsu-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom) and Bohyeon-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Power). On either side of the main altar are a pair of paintings. To the right is an image dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint); and to the left, you’ll find an image dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars). To the left of the mural dedicated to Chilseong is a mural dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), who rests on the back of a rather large tiger. And to the right of the mural dedicated to Dokseong is a Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) mural. The final mural in the Daeung-jeon Hall is a Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) hanging on the far left wall.
To the immediate right of the Daeung-jeon Hall is the Jijang-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to this shrine hall; which, rather surprisingly, doesn’t have a signboard above its central entranceway, are adorned with various murals that include an all-white Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion), as well as a set of murals depicting the life-cycle. Stepping inside this shrine hall, you’ll find an image of Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) on the main altar. This central image is accompanied by the Siwang (The Ten Kings of the Underworld).
To the left of the Daeung-jeon Hall, on the other hand, is the Cheonbul-jeon Hall. The exterior walls are adorned with murals dedicated to the Nahan (The Historical Disciples of the Buddha). The front doors to this shrine hall are adorned with cartoonish Gwimyeon (Monster Masks). Stepping inside the Cheonbul-jeon Hall, you’ll find a thousand green porcelain images of the Buddha. Resting on the main altar, and fronting these one thousand green Buddhas, is a large solitary image of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha).
The final structure at Geumgoksa Temple that visitors can explore is the Jong-ru Pavilion out in front of the Cheonbul-jeon Hall. This wooden pavilion houses a large bronze bell. The other three traditional Buddhist percussion instruments are absent from this Jong-ru Pavilion.
How To Get ThereFrom the Gangjin Intercity Bus Teriminal, you’ll need to take the “Nongeo-chon – 농어촌 6” bus or the “Nongeo-chon – 농어촌 12” bus. After 10 stops, or 15 minutes, you’ll need to get off at the “Geumgoksa – 금곡사” bus stop. After that, you’ll be right at the temple.
Overall Rating: 6/10Geumgoksa Temple is beautifully located in the folds of the base of the mountain with a stream to the east. Besides its beautiful location, the obvious highlight to the temple is the Goryeo-era “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple.” While partially damaged, the three-story structure still exudes its original beauty. In addition to this welcoming pagoda, the main hall beautiful modern depictions of the three most popular shaman deities. Also have a look up at the signboard of the Daeung-jeon Hall at the large, whiskered decorative dragons.
The walk up to the temple courtyard at Geumgoksa Temple. The “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple” with the Daeung-jeon Hall in the background. One of the decorative dragons that adorns the front of the Daeung-jeon Hall near its signboard. The two sets of murals that adorn the Daeung-jeon Hall: the Shimu-do (bottom) and the Palsang-do (top). The main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall with a mural dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint) to the right and Chilseong (The Seven Stars) to the left. The mural dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside the main hall, as well. The Jijang-jeon Hall at Geumgoksa Temple. To the left of the Jijang-jeon Hall. The Cheonbul-jeon Hall at Geumgoksa Temple. One of the Gwimyeon (Monster Masks) that adorns the Cheonbul-jeon Hall. One of the Nahan (The Historical Disciples of the Buddha) that adorns one of the exterior walls of the Cheonbul-jeon Hall. A look inside the Cheonbul-jeon Hall. The view from the Cheonbul-jeon Hall towards the Daeung-jeon Hall and the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda of Geumgoksa Temple.” The bronze bell inside the Jong-ru Pavilion in front of the Cheonbul-jeon Hall.—Dale's Korean Temple Adventures YouTube
Looking to Buy an Older Ipod version
If anyone has an Apple Ipod even that is an older version that you want to sell, please contact me at [email protected] or by phone 010-3490-9531. I have an older model Generation 6, but jammed something in the earphone jack and does not work now.
Nintendo Switch LITE + Grip Case
For Sale: Nintendo Switch Lite + Goodies for Sale - 200,000 Coral Red color, Domestically bought in 2022 (see pictures in 1st commend for box proof) and in like-new condition. Very rarely used. I just don't have time for it. Screen has always had the screen protector on it. The protector and the screen itself is free of any blemish. Joycons have had covers on since day 1. Included is a standard clear case, but also a Skull&Co grip case included. With 3 different sizes of grips included. I also have a copy of Zelda -Breath of the Wild in case you'd also like to buy that in addition for 40k. As mentioned 200k - Pickup in Deokcheon or we can arrange something else. PM if you have any questions.
Switch 5.jpg Switch 1.jpg Switch 3.jpgHumidifier
I have never used this humidifier. Someone gave it to me as a used item. 20,000 won. I'm at the KSU area and I live at the exit by the McDonald's. My building has a Nike store. Please text me at 010-2281-4043.
16995802230085285281318692176678.jpgCrock Pot Unused 4' Quarts
I bought this Crock-Pot a few years ago and never used it. The outside of the box is a little damaged but there is absolutely no damage in a completely unused Crock-Pot inside.100,000 won, pickup close to KSU McDonald's stairs exit, Nike store in my building. Please text me at 010-2281-4043.
IMG_20231110_094636_285.jpg IMG_20231110_094644_997.jpgBox of Korean language materials
This is a box of books and flashcards you can create and even a mechanical pencil! I'm selling the entire box for 80,000 won. Most of the books are completely unused. Please text me at 010-2281-4043. I live at Kyungsung University right by the McDonald's stairs in the Nike building. I will take cash for the box..
IMG_20231110_095805_146.jpg IMG_20231110_095759_696.jpg IMG_20231110_095718_820.jpgJung Jaeil Concert
The music director of the Netflix series <Squid Games> and the movie <Parasite> is holding a concert in Seoul
Jung Jaeil Concert
*Date: Dec. 15, 2023 ~ Dec. 16, 2023
*Venue: Sejong Grand Theater (Gwanghwamoon, center of Seoul)
*Run Time: 110 min (no intermission)
*Price: VIP Seats 150,000 / R Seats 130,000 Won / S Seats 100,000 Won / A Seats 80,000 Won
*Age Group: 7 years and older
If you are interested, book tickets at Sejong Center's website:
"Squid Game" comes live in concert
World Renowned Musician Jung Jae-il's Solo Concert
Jung Jae-il is an acclaimed musician and the music director of the global mega-hit Netflix series, "Squid Game," as well as the film that showcased the power of K-content, "Parasite."
In his solo concert, Jung Jae-il will present his beloved songs from the "Squid Game" and "Parasite" soundtracks, along with his latest album, "Listen," in live performances. This stage will not only highlight his charm as a performer but also the extensive and profound musical spectrum he encompasses as a composer, music director, conductor, and more.
정재일-콘서트_웹상세_통합_ENG.jpgMy Three Books for Sale on Amazon
The titles are:
Adoration of the Korean: Expatriate Tales Made in Korea
For the Love of Time: Tales From Home and Abroad
Theory and Criticism in the Chicago Tradition: Ten Essays Composed Abroad
shellhair.jpgYeongamsa-ji Temple Site – 영암사지 (Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do)
The Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site is located on the southern slopes of Mt. Hwangmaesan (1,113 m) in southwestern Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do. The temple is believed to date back to the Silla Dynasty (57 B.C. – 935 A.D); however, the exact date as to when the temple was first established is unknown. According to historical records, the monk Jeogyeon-daesa (932-1014) stayed at the temple until his death at the age of 83. Another indicator of the temple’s origins can be discerned from the style of the temple. The style of the temple indicates that it was grounded in esoteric Buddhism, which was popular in the late Silla Dynasty (57 B.C. – 935 A.D.).
In 1984, an archaeological team excavated part of the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site. During that time, the main hall was discovered. In addition to the main hall, an attached building was also discovered. The archaeologists also discovered that the three-story pagoda, the stone lantern, and the main hall were all placed in a straight line. Also, in a neighbouring clearing, a pair of stele were located on either side of another shrine hall. In total, it was discovered through these archaeological efforts that the main hall had been rebuilt three separate times. Besides these discoveries, numerous other things were located on the temple site, as well. These included foot stones and roof tiles that dated back to the end of Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.) and up to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Also, a Gilt-bronze Standing Buddha that was created in the 8th century was also excavated at the site, which helps us to better understand when the temple was first founded.
Another interesting feature of the temple, which gives archaeologists a better understanding of the temple, are the artifacts that still remain at the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site like the stone stairs on either side of the central main hall platform. The stone retaining walls for the foundation of the main hall feature stone reliefs with human and animal faces on them. Not only is it rare to have the stone stairs remain at such a historic temple site, but designs on the stairs like the pair of Gareungbinga (Kalavinka) on the northern stairs are unique, as well.
In total, the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site is home to three Korean Treasures. They are the “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” which is Korean Treasure #353; the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” which is Korean Treasure #480; and the “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” which is Korean Treasure #489. In addition to these three Korean Treasure, the temple site itself, the “Yeongamsa Temple Site,” is designated as a Historic Site.
Temple Site LayoutWhen you first approach the temple site grounds from the east, you’ll notice several stone foundations to numerous auxiliary buildings that once stood out in front of the temple. Making your way up to the next plateau, you’ll find even more elevated pieces of earth and foundation stones. These were corridors that probably acted as a stairway that led up to the final plateau that housed the main shrine halls at Yeongnamsa Temple. These large retaining walls that separate the three plateaus at the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site are a beautiful blend of old and new stones to help reconstruct the basic outline of the former temple.
Now standing on the third, and final plateau, with the beautiful Mt. Hwangmaesan as a backdrop, you’ll notice a three-story pagoda in the centre. This is the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” which is Korean Treasure #480. The pagoda is presumed to date back to the 9th century, when the temple was first built. It’s located in front of the main shrine hall. In 1969, the pagoda was discovered, but it had collapsed. Subsequently, the pagoda was reassembled, and it now stands 3.8 metres in height. It has a two-tier base and a three-story body. It’s missing its decorative finial top. The pagoda resembles the traditional Silla-era design. Additionally, the second and third story of the pagoda are significantly smaller than the first story body stone. But overall, the body seems both balanced and well-preserved.
To the right and left of the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site” are foundations for corridors and auxiliary buildings. It’s to the rear of the pagoda that you find two sets of narrow stones on either side of a final stone retaining wall. Be careful when climbing these stairs because the stones are quite narrow.
Standing on the final raised section of the temple site grounds, you’ll first find the “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” This stone lantern is believed to have first been erected on the temple site sometime during Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.) during the 9th century. In 1933, the Japanese, during Japanese Colonial Rule (1910-1945), tried to take this stone lantern, but the local villagers resisted these attempts. Fortunately, it was kept, and ultimately preserved, at the local township (myeon) office. The “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site” was eventually relocated back to the temple site in 1959, after a former hermitage was built at the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site. As for the design of the stone lantern, the light chamber is set in the middle of the lantern with a three-tiered base and a crowning capstone. The light chamber is octagonal in shape and built in the traditional Unified Silla design. However, what sets it apart is the twin lion stone statues support the light chamber. The twin lions stand atop a base stone that has a lotus design engraved on it. The lions’ back claws are stepping on top of the base stone, while the front claws hold up the upper stone lion chamber with their heads facing upwards. Overall, the design of the lions is quite realistic. As for the light chamber, the exterior is adorned with the four images of the Four Heavenly Kings.
To the rear of the “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site” is the Geumdang-ji, which is the main hall site at the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site. There are fragmentary stone artifacts remaining on the surface of the Geumdang-ji. This includes the stone base for the main altar. Rather interestingly, and unlike most other temple sites, the Geumdang-ji retains some of its unique features like the stairs on either side of the middle portion of the embankments. While the southern set of stairs and their railings seem a little worse for wear, the northern set seem pretty well preserved all things considered. And if you look close enough, you’ll notice that both railings are adorned with what appear to be Gareungbinga (Kalavinka). Also, the stone retaining wall that is keeping the Geumdang-ji embankment in place is adorned with various stone reliefs that include human faces, animals, and even what looks to be either a tiger or lion. This engravings are quite remarkable and surprising at first glance.
To the far right of the Geumdang-ji, you’ll notice the temple site’s stone basin. It’s also in this area that there are the remains of a former auxiliary building, as well. But it’s to the left rear of the Geumdang-ji, and unmarked, that you’ll find another clearing. This clearing houses the “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” This clearing is known as the West Geumdang-ji area of the temple site grounds. Out in front of the embankment for the former shrine hall, you’ll find a stone pillar with a base. This stone pillar with base was probably the base for a stone lantern. And on either side of the embankment, you’ll find the two “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” These two stele remain without their body stones and their capstones. The eastern stele has its back engraved with hexagonal patterns, while the rectangular supporting stone for the main body is carved with a cloud-like design. And while this stele has an overall look of a tortoise, it has the head of a dragon with an outstretched neck. In its mouth, it holds a magic orb. The western stele, on the other hand, is also engraved with hexagonal patterns on its back. The supporting stone for the main body is engraved with panel decorations on its four sides and lotus petals around its edges. This western stele is slightly smaller and thinner than the neighbouring eastern stele. While the identities of who the stele’s were dedicated to are unknown, it’s believed that both were built during the 9th century during Unified Silla (668-935 A.D.).
How To Get ThereThere is simply no easy way to get to the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site by public transportation. If you take a bus, it could take you over two hours to get to the temple site. With that being said, the easiest way to get to the Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site is by car. And if you don’t have a car, you can take a taxi from the Hapcheon Intercity Bus Terminal; however, the taxi ride will take about 30 minutes, or 27 km, and it’ll cost you about 35,000 won (one way).
Overall Rating: 6.5/10The Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site is beautifully situated below the picturesque peaks of Mt. Hwangmaesan. This ideal location is beautifully blended with an assortment of Korean Treasures that include the “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site,” and the “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” All put together, the temple site has a beautiful symmetry in an amazing location. While more difficult to get to, it’s definitely worth the time and effort to find.
The entire temple site grounds with Mt. Hwangmaesan as a backdrop. A look up at the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” A look at both the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site” and the “Twin Lion Stone Lantern at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” A closer look at the “Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” The view that the three-story pagoda gets to enjoy. The view from the stone lantern out towards the three-story pagoda. A beautiful view from the temple site grounds. The view from the Geumdang-ji. One of the stone engravings that adorns the Geumdang-ji retaining walls. Another of the beautiful engravings that adorns the Geumdang-ji retaining walls. And one more of the animal engravings that adorns the Geumdang-ji retaining walls. One of the Gareungbinga (Kalavinka) that adorns the side stairs to the Geumdang-ji. The western stele that’s part of the “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” A stone pillar, which was probably a stone lantern, out in front of the former shrine hall in the West Geumdang-ji area. The eastern stele that’s part of the “Tortoise-Shaped Pedestal at Yeongamsa Temple Site.” And one last look at the amazing Yeongamsa-ji Temple Site.Pages
