The Origin of Doseonsa


“According to records, Doseonsa Temple was founded by National Teacher Doseon in 862, the second year of King Gyeongmun, the 48th ruler of the Silla Kingdom. During his travels among the mountains and rivers in the country, National Teacher Doseon came across Mt. Samgaksan…”

“Hmm..., this is an outstanding spot for a temple! It is the cleanest and finest practicing ground! In a thousand years, Buddha-dharma will rise to great prosperity!”

“As Master Doseon was knowledgeable in astronomy and geography as well Buddhism, he complimented the future temple site, and predicted that it would become an important place in strengthening the nation and reviving Buddha’s teaching. Consequently, he put his mystical power into practice…”


“I’ve cut a huge rock next to the site in half, and carved a Buddha statue! This will be known as Maaegwaneum Bosalsang, the image of the Bodhisattva of Great Compassion on the rock-wall at Doseonsa!”

“Moreover, the National Teacher Doseon established the unique concept of geomancy, or Korean Feng Shui, and also provided the spiritual ideology to King Taejo, the founder of the Goryeo Dynasty, making a significant contribution toward laying the basic foundation of the country.”

“Founded by National Teacher Doseon as the national prayer ground eleven hundred years ago, the temple has offered not only a place of cultivation, but also comfort for many people until the present day.