▲ This shows the Tripitaka Koreana located in the Haeinsa Temple. (Yonhap)

SEOUL, June 3 (Yonhap) -- The Tripitaka Koreana, which is preserved at the Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do, will be open for the first time to the public every Saturday and Sunday from the 19th.

 

"We will launch a pre-booking tour of the 'Haeinsa Tripitaka Koreana' from the 19th," said Jin Gak, director general of Haeinsa General Affairs Bureau. "We will run a tour program twice a day every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m."

 

Jingak said, "The Tripitaka Koreana has only been disclosed to Buddhists and others during Buddhist events or ceremonies, but this will be the first time to showcase not only the printing woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana but also the temple to the public."

 

Those who want to participate in the tour can apply for a reservation in advance through the Haeinsa website (http://www.haeinsa.or.kr/) and click on the banner that says "Book a tour of the Tripitaka Koreana.

 

The application page closes every Monday at noon and the participants who are selected on a first-come, first-served basis, will be notified by a text message sent in the afternoon.

 

The number of visitors is limited to 10-20 people in attempts to protect the cultural assets. In order to provide everyone equal opportunities to visit the temple, visitors are not allowed to book a spot on the tour on behalf of someone or a large number group of people.

 

In addition, children younger than elementary school students are not allowed to apply for the tour in order to protect the Tripitaka Koreana and maintain everyone's safety.

 

The Janggyong Panjeon, a building complex that houses the Tripitaka Koreana, is designated as National Treasure No. 52 and is enlisted on the Memory of the World Programme. Janggyeong Panjeon, consists of four buildings including Sudarajang, the southern building, and Beopbojeon, the northern building.

 

Visitors will be able to see the Tripitaka Koreana at the Beopbojeon Hall within the Janggyeong Panjeon.

 

 

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