Introduction


“Located in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi-do Province, Yongjoosa is a famous temple based on filial piety, or the virtue of respect to parents, elders and ancestors. King Jeongjo, the 22nd ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, sublimed his heartbreaking love towards his deceased father, Prince Sado, into his Buddhist faith. This millennial temple continues to remind us of the true meaning of filial piety.”

“After Prince Sado was wretchedly killed by his father, his heartbroken son, King Jeonjo, came across a sutra called, ‘Bumo Eunjungyeong’ which espoused the profound relationship between parents and children, and the love of a mother and father. Inspired by this, he decided to found a temple to ease the suffering of his father's spirit.”

“Yongjoosa was originally founded under the name of Galyangsa in 854, the 16th year of King Munseong, the 46th ruler of the Silla Kingdom, but it was burned during the Manchu War of 1636. The temple was moved by King Jeongjo when he moved his father’s tomb to what is now Hwaseong, and the temple was renamed Yongjoosa.”

“Yongjoosa took on the role of watching over and protecting Hyeonreungwon, Prince Sado’s tomb, while also being developed as a committed ground for strict cultivation.”

“Yongjoosa was one of the five Gyujeongso, which oversaw the lives of monks and together formed a center called ‘Pallodoseungwon,’ which systematically managed temples around the country.”

“Even today, Yongjoosa operates Hyohang Education Center, which honors King Jeongjo by offering various programs for practicing filial piety and strengthening character.”