Pyohunsa, Buddhist temple at Mount Kumgang, North Korea
Pyohunsa is a temple complex located on Mount Kumgang and contains multiple halls such as Banyabojeon, Myeobujeon, and Yeongsanjeon along with several pavilions set within the mountainous terrain. These structures are arranged across the landscape to form a cohesive spiritual site for Buddhist worship and meditation.
The site was founded in 670 during the Silla kingdom period and represents one of the oldest Buddhist locations in the region. A major reconstruction in 1778 expanded and renewed the buildings after decades of wear had affected the structures.
The temple holds the status of National Treasure number 97 in North Korea and reflects Korean Buddhist architectural customs. Its design shows how this site served as a spiritual center for worshippers across different historical periods.
Access to the temple requires official permits and guided tours, as the site operates under strict North Korean government regulations for religious sites. Visitors should prepare for limited accessibility and formal procedures when planning a visit.
Among the four main temples on Mount Kumgang, this is the only one that survived destruction during the Korean War. While its counterpart complexes disappeared, this site retained its original structures and layout.
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