Gilsangsa Temple is a Buddhist temple in Seoul’s Seongbuk-dong district, at 68 Seonjam-ro 5-gil. Its grounds combine meditation halls, trees and temple buildings in a quiet setting among the northern hills. The main hall, Geungnakjeon, was once part of Daewongak, an upscale restaurant; the temple began in 1997 after the restaurant’s owner donated the property. You can walk the grounds, hear the temple bell and see where Zen master Beopjeong spent his final years. Lanterns add color during preparations for Buddha’s birthday.
From Daewongak to Gilsangsa
Gilsangsa was established in 1997, so its history differs from that of older Korean temples. Its main hall, Geungnakjeon, was once part of Daewongak, an upscale restaurant. The owner donated the property to a Buddhist monk, leading to the temple’s creation.
The site is associated with Zen master Beopjeong, who lived here during his final years. For visitors interested in his life, that connection gives the temple grounds a personal point of focus.
Walking the temple grounds
The complex has meditation halls, trees and temple buildings arranged across a quiet setting in Seongbuk-dong. Prayers may take place inside the main hall, and access to the interior can be limited at those times. You can still walk around the grounds and observe the temple respectfully.
Signs around the site ask visitors to keep quiet. Lanterns are put up during preparations for Buddha’s birthday, adding a seasonal detail to a visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Gilsangsa Temple?
It is at 68 Seonjam-ro 5-gil in Seoul’s Seongbuk District.
How do you get to Gilsangsa Temple by public transport?
From Hansung University Station on Line 4, use Exit 6 and take bus 1111, 2112 or village bus Seongbuk 02.
Can you enter the main hall?
Access may be limited when prayers are being held inside. You can walk around the temple grounds.
What should you see at Gilsangsa Temple?
Look for Geungnakjeon, meditation halls and the tree-lined grounds. The main hall was formerly part of Daewongak.
