Religious Sites

Religion in Korea is characterized by a rise of Christianity, a revival of Buddhism, and despite decades of suppression, the survival of shamanism. Regardless of their differences, it’s safe to say that each of these religions, as well as their respective places of worship, are beautiful in their own way. Below are 10 of the most magnificent places of worship on the Korean peninsula.

Seoul Central Mosque (서울 중앙성원)
Opened in 1976, the Seoul Central Mosque, or Masjid, was the first mosque in the country, and today serves as the functional hub of the Islamic cultural community in Seoul. It is noted for its characteristically Islamic design. The large minarets and beautiful Arabic calligraphy engravings add a unique character to the skyline of Itaewon, one of Seoul’s most multicultural neighborhoods.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (해동 용궁사)
While most Korean temples are nestled in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in the southern coastal city of Busan looks out over the majestic East Sea (also known as the Sea of Japan). Dating back to 1376, Haedong Yongungsa features a sanctuary, shrine and cave-enclosed sanctum at sea level, while Buddhist iconography such as its four lion statues that each represent a different human emotion, create a sense of sanctity. Stone stairways and lanterns course along the rocky shore offering breathtaking views, and is often visited by locals eager to watch the sunrise on New Year’s Day.

Myeongdong Cathedral (명동성당)
Situated at the heart of one of Seoul’s most bustling shopping districts, Myeongdong Cathedral was the birthplace of the Roman Catholic community in Korea, and remains an important symbol of Christianity.

Designed by French missionaries, the cathedral was built in a Gothic style, the first of its kind in Korea. In 1894, King Gojong, the twenty sixth and final Joseon Dynasty king and first emperor of Korea, laid the first stone, and for four years, Chinese bricklayers constructed the cathedral. It was completed in 1898. It currently houses the remains of several individuals, including a former bishop, priests and Catholic martyrs.

Yoido Full Gospel Church (여의도 순복음 교회)
With an estimated 800,000-plus members, the Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul hosts one of the largest congregations in the entire world. With seven church services in its main sanctuary on Sundays, a number of ministries to serve the local and international communities, and its own Prayer and Fasting Mountain, it’s no surprise that worshipers from all corners of the globe come to witness this enormous religious landmark. Seeing 12,000 people sing out in prayer simultaneously, all under one roof, is truly a beautiful thing.

Tapsa Temple (탑사)
Perhaps no Buddhist temple in Korea is as magical as Tapsa Temple in North Jeolla Province. It was here that scholar Yi Gap-yong built over 120 stone pagodas, some as tall as nine meters, without mortar or mechanical devices, all by himself .

Over 30 years, he gathered stones during the day and constructed the conical pyramids at night. Despite strong winds and the test of time, the towers refuse to topple over and more than 80 still stand at the site. They are believed to have mystical, wish-granting powers and visitors flock here in hopes of making their dreams come true.

The surrounding mountains, which according to legend, were formed when gods came down to Earth to have a child, provide a stunning backdrop.