Jogyesa Temple
As the main temple as well as the district head temple of the Jogye order in Seoul, Jogyesa Temple is the center of Korean Buddhism. The temple was built in the late 14th century during the Goryeo period but was completely destroyed in a fire. It was rebuilt under the name of Gakwangsa Temple in 1910 with the effort of many respectful monks, namely Han Yong-un and Lee Hee-gwang. The temple was given a role as the head temple of Korea’s Buddhism and renamed to Tegosa Temple in 1936. In 1954, a purification drive took place to eliminate Japanese influence and revive traditional Buddhism, which established the present day Jogyesa Temple as a result. · · Jogyesa Temple plays an important role in Korean Buddhism as the head temple of the Jogye order. Jogyesa Temple’s Dharma Hall serves as the main venue for several Buddhist events, holding rituals, lectures, ceremonies, and other events all year long. The annual lantern festival in celebration of Buddha's birthday also takes place at this temple.
| Type | Temples |
|---|---|
| Region | Seoul |
| Address | 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul |
| Closed | N/A (Open all year round) |
| Parking | Available (Limited parking space; use of public transportation recommended) |
Getting there
What's on nearby
Events run on fixed dates — check these against your own trip. Trip Planner shows everything on for the days you are in Korea.
- Sep 24, 2026 – Oct 12, 2026Jeon Ki-suk & Jeong Eun-hye: When a Wing Beats Once
- Jan 1, 2026 – Dec 31, 2026Gugak Performance Jinyeon
- Jun 27, 2025 – Dec 31, 2026Lacquer: From the Lacquer Tree to Lacquerware
- Apr 11, 2026 – Oct 31, 2026Traditional Culture Programme at the Uijeongbu Site
