Temple stay programs in Korea adapt to changes in society

Описание: Twelve years ago,... Buddhist temples in Korea began inviting foreigners and visitors in,... to give them the sense of what it's like to live as a monk or nun.
Today, the "Temple Stay" program continues to offer a diverse set of meditation and cultural programs,... but as our Park Ji-won reports,... it's getting a new look to meet the changing needs of society. d
Since the temple stay program was first introduced in 2002, it's become one of Korea's most representative cultural programs, especially for foreign tourists who want a unique experience during their time here.
With the popularity of the program rising, the number of people participating in the temple stay program has increased about seven times over during the past 12 years.


"And to meet the new demands of people living in this ever-changing society, the Jogye Order, the largest Buddhism sect in Korea, has revamped its temple stay program."

A total of 13 pilot temples around the country will launch the new programs starting next month.
They will focus on tapping into four themes: consolation, health, emptiness and vision and are composed of diverse new routines,... from walking meditation under the moon and music therapy... to mountain climbing and yoga,... each according to its theme.
However other key routines that have been staples of the temple stay program, like zen meditation, eating the meals a monk might, and tea ceremonies,... will remain unchanged.


"The temple stay program started when Korean hosted the World Cup in 2002. Many people have found comfort and happiness at temples. We are now trying to make the program more systematic based on the four new themes."

The Jogye order has also launched a new line of stationary products... inspired by the hundreds of traditional Korean patterns found on temples.
Park Ji-won, Arirang News.