Seoul sights
Bongeunsa Temple Next to COEX: Where Seoul's Pace Suddenly Shifts
Experience the history of Bongeunsa, nestled beside skyscrapers and shopping spaces, and the atmosphere to look for when visiting the temple through video.
Selmit · Updated
Based on a YouTube videoSource videoExpedia · Play from the related sceneWatch video ↗Walking past the skyscrapers and COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul, stepping into Bongeunsa Temple seems to change the ambient sound first. The Expedia video also highlights the striking contrast of trees and temple halls running right alongside a hub of shopping and business. This close proximity makes Bongeunsa all the more special, as an ancient temple and a fast-paced city coexist in the exact same neighborhood.
1. How an ancient temple survived in the middle of the metropolis
Bongeunsa is documented as having been founded in 794 during the Silla Dynasty. Through its long history, it has embraced cultural heritage items like Buddhist scripture woodblocks and remains a religious space where worship and spiritual practice continue today. Rather than treating the serene scenery in the video like a movie set, it is important to remember first that this is an actively functioning temple.
2. The greatest contrast felt in the video
On one side stands a massive glass-facade complex, and on the other are trees and tiled roofs. Personally, Bongeunsa's charm is less about feeling like you're 'time-traveling to the past' and more about realizing that a different pace is possible even inside a modern city. Walk from the entrance toward the inner grounds and feel how the traffic noise fades away.
3. Between sightseeing and temple etiquette
While official guides introduce examples of cultural programs such as Seon (Zen) meditation, tea ceremonies, and monastic meals (Baru Gongyang), not every program runs daily. If participating in an experience is your goal, you need to check the current schedule beforehand. During general visits, basic courtesy means not disrupting worship and spiritual practice, and respecting individuals' boundaries before taking photos of people.
Video Viewing Tip
The Bongeunsa captured in the video briefly yet powerfully shows that Seoul is not a city with just a single expression. Rather than casually squeezing it into a COEX itinerary, setting aside extra time to slow down will help you better appreciate what makes this place different.
Quick Summary
| Perspective | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Urban Scenery | The fast rhythm of COEX and high-rise buildings |
| Temple Space | The slow movement across halls, forests, and courtyards |
| Visiting Attitude | Respecting it as both a tourist spot and a living religious space |
Verified Official Resources
Official resources and public videos were verified on September 8, 2026. Please check the latest announcements from the respective location before your visit for operating hours, fees, and event schedules.