The Origin

“It is said that a temple called Galyangsa once stood in this location, but it was renamed Yongjoosa in 854, the 16th year of the reign of King Munseong of the Silla Kingdom.”

“Then who founded Galyangsa and when was it established?

“Galyangsa was founded by an old sage called Preceptor Yeomgeo in the late Silla Kingdom! The dharma bell in Yongjoosa was designated as National Treasure No. 120. According to the record on the bell, it was cast in May during the 16th year of King Munseong of the Silla Kingdom at the time of the foundation of the temple! Seonghwangsan is modern-day Hwaseong, and Galyangsa is Yongjoosa, isn’t it all clear!?”


“Dad, why did Galyangsa become Yongjoosa?”

“When King Jeongjo moved his father’s tomb to Hwaseong, he reconstructed the temple. As for why it came to be called Yongjoosa, it is said that one day King Jeongjo had a dream...”


“I had a dream last night! A dragon held a legendary precious mani-gem and ascended into heaven! I therefore command that the name of the temple be changed to Yongjoosa!”

“Oh, so it is called Yongjoosa using the Chinese letters of ‘Yong’, a dragon, and “Joo’, the legendary precious mani-gem!”

“Oh, my! My little girl is so smart!! Hahaha…”