Bong-eun Temple’s ‘Sangjeon Yesujae’ Designated as National Intangible Cultural Heritage

연합뉴스 / 2025-07-15 09:32:43

▲ The Buddhist ritual “Sangjeon Yesujae” is held at Bong-eun Temple in this undated photo provided by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS). (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, July 15 (Yonhap) -- The Korea Heritage Service announced on Tuesday that the Buddhist ritual “Sangjeon Yesujae” held at Bong-eun Temple has been newly designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage item, with the Association for the Preservation of Sangjeon Yesujae recognized as the official custodian.

“Sangjeon Yesujae” is a Buddhist ritual performed by the living to pray for their own rebirth in the Western Paradise after death. Unlike “Cheondojae,” another ritual in which the living pray for the deceased, “Sangjeon Yesujae” emphasizes self-effort and spiritual cultivation while still alive, rather than relying on others’ intercession.

▲ The Buddhist ritual “Sangjeon Yesujae” is held at Bong-eun Temple in this undated Yonhap file photo. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

According to the Korea Heritage Service, the ritual is historically and academically significant, with references found in the 19th-century book Dongguk Sesigi, which noted it as a customary practice during leap months.

The Association for the Preservation of Sangjeon Yesujae, formed in June 2017, comprises five temples in Seoul, including Bong-eun Temple, and was recognized for its capability and dedication to preserving the heritage.

The Korea Heritage Service also granted honorary custodian status to Lee Byung-woo, a training instructor for the National Intangible Cultural Heritage “Yeongsanjae.” Recognized in 2005, Lee contributed to the training of successors and promotion of intangible heritage for 19 years but was recently deemed unable to continue due to health issues. His honorary status acknowledges his longstanding contributions.

▲ This photo provided by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS) shows Lee Byung-woo, a training instructor for the National Intangible Cultural Heritage “Yeongsanjae.” (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)