Korean Job Discussion Forums

[OnTheOtherSide]

Does anyone know of good cities/towns for someone who wants to explore Buddhism, go to temples and live in a culture that is still very Buddhist?

Are there any parts of Seoul or other cities where Buddhism is still going strong and there is a lot of Buddhist culture on the streets?

Thanks.

[samcheokguy]

Did someone just ask if there is somewhere in Korea where it is very Buddhist?

[John Henry]

I'm guessing buddhism here isn't what you think it is.

[OnTheOtherSide]

I don't really understand these responses. Let me make my question more clear.

I lived in Busan for a while. And there were temples, people practiced Buddhism, and occasionally I would see monks etc. But overall it was just a modern, materialistic, fashionable, fast paced city.

I liked Busan and had a lot of fun, but I fell deep into the drinking and clubbing lifestyle. Like many in Korea, I became a lush while living there.

I'm probably going back to Asia, perhaps Korea, maybe a different country. This time I just want to focus on Buddhism, Yoga, exercise, and living a more spiritual and healthy lifestyle.

What i'm looking for is a place that might resemble say..... the stereotype of Tibet. A place that is just totally full of Buddhist culture and spiritual energy. A place where there are monks everywhere and lots and lots of temples. I does not have to be beautiful, and it could be urban and in a city. But I just want a place with a very spiritual vibe like that.

Any tips?

[OnTheOtherSide]

.......

[rollo]

I can not really think of a place that has a deeper Bhuddist tradition than Korea. Since you said you were in Busan, gimhae right near by has a very large number of temples, some just single pavaillions in the forest, no roads to them, very tranquil a strong Bhuddist association. If you have good Korean language skill you can go to the Bhuddist association in any province or city in Korea and they will help you find a teacher. I was deeply involved in bhuddism in Gimhae. Bhuddist countries are often materealistic, fast paced, full of pushy people out for the money. Just like anywhere else. A trip to Haensu and a weekend there hiking and visiting the Korean temples and hermitages, and seeing the great library of bhuddist hand carved woodblocks is a peacful , thought provoking trip. It is gorgeous there. From Daegu there is a bus every hour I think to the temple. A very special place. Good luck!!

[jotgarden]

Is it really that hard to find? I see temples everywhere. This country is traditionally Buddhist, in case you hadn't noticed.

[OnTheOtherSide]

[OnTheOtherSide]

[harlowethrombey]

[D.D.]

If you are a beginer you need to be in enviroment that supports that. I would say India would be a better place. If you can afford it just head to India. If not save money and do 6 month stints in India.

Korea is one of the least spiritual places I have ever been. I am quite advanced in my practice but the field here is not supportive to meditation.

Even China is more supportive than Korea.

Korea is a good place to meditate if you have the right working conditions where you have lot's of free time.

Sounds like you are not very solid in your practice and need a place where you are supported by people more advanced.

Walking in the market is not for beginers.


I believe most Buddhist traditions to be outdated. I would guess there would be a few good teachers here but not many.

The way the modern mind is set up many of their techniques are just too harsh. Most people can't handle sitting meditation and too much stuff will come up.

PM me and I will do my best to help you find some good people whether it be in Korea or another place.

[Unposter]

Have you heard of Hwagye Temple? It is in Seoul, near Suyu Station. It has an International Zen Center. They have monks from all over the world. Every Sunday they have a public meditation and what they call a "dharma talk" where you can learn about Buddhism and ask a "Teacher Monk" questions. It is all in English.

They have a number of retreats and activities throughout year which you can participate in. Some cost money.

They also have another temple which I don't remember the name of somewhere in the countryside. I've been there. It is quite nice.

I once met one monk who used to be an English teacher. He said he could not stand all the focus on money and work. He just wanted to practice Buddhism so he became a monk. He seemed happy.

[The Grumpy Senator]

Gyeongju

[MrRogers]

agree with D.D.:

[Gollywog]

Rollo wrote: