🏯 Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 13
Photo Credit: Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Geungnakbojeon Hall of Muwisa Temple, Gangjin
(강진 무위사 극락보전 · 康津 無爲寺 極樂寶殿)
📖 1. History and Description
The Geungnakbojeon Hall of Muwisa Temple, located in Gangjin, Jeollanam-do, is designated as National Treasure No. 13 of Korea.
This wooden hall, constructed during the late Goryeo Dynasty (14th century), is one of the oldest surviving wooden Buddhist halls in Korea. It belongs to Muwisa Temple, a historic monastery founded during the Unified Silla period and renowned as a major center of Seon (Zen) Buddhism in the southern region.
The hall enshrines a large statue of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), symbolizing the Western Paradise or “Land of Ultimate Bliss.” Its name, Geungnakbojeon (極樂寶殿), literally means “Hall of the Jeweled Paradise.”
Architecturally, the hall represents the refined wooden craftsmanship of the late Goryeo period. It features a hip-and-gable roof (paljak style) supported by well-preserved bracket systems and simple yet harmonious proportions.
The modest scale and unadorned design emphasize spiritual calmness rather than grandeur, embodying the Buddhist ideal of “emptiness and tranquility.”
Inside the hall, the ceiling structure and original wooden beams remain remarkably intact, providing invaluable insight into Goryeo-era temple architecture and joinery techniques.
🪄 2. Significance
- Architectural Value: A rare and well-preserved example of late Goryeo wooden architecture, demonstrating balance between simplicity, function, and beauty.
- Historical Importance: Reflects the continuity of Buddhist temple construction in the southern regions and the enduring vitality of Goryeo religious culture.
- Cultural Legacy: Serves as both a place of worship and a living witness to Korea’s spiritual artistry, embodying the peaceful essence of Seon Buddhism.
🌸 3. A Warm Thought
Geungnakbojeon Hall of Muwisa Temple stands quietly beneath the forested hills of Gangjin, whispering that true paradise is not a distant realm but a moment of peace found within the stillness of the heart.
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉 National Heritage Portal.