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Suguksa Temple was built in 1459 after Crown Prince Uigyeong died at the age of 20. His father, King Sejo, had the temple, originally named Jeonginsa, built in the prince’s honor. In 1712, the temple was designated as the guardian temple for the tombs of King Sukjong and Queen Inhyeon buried at nearby Seooreung Royal Tomb grounds. Around that time, the temple’s name was changed to Suguksa, or “the temple that protects the country.”After a fire at the temple, it was left to ruin for some time until 1900 when it was rebuilt. At that time, King Sunjong became ill and King Gojong, his father, asked Monk Wol Cho to pray for him. King Sunjong became well again and because the monk’s prayers seemed to be quite effective, the king was impressed and wanted to give him riches. The monk declined the offer and instead asked for a gold-covered Buddhist sanctuary that ordinary citizens could visit. The main building of the guardian temple is the Golden Buddhist Sanctum (황금보전) and it is covered in a special golden paper. Actually, the front of the building is covered in this special golden paper made for ancient buildings, the other three sides are painted gold just so you know. Still, it is a gorgeous building. Visit in the spring and you’ll find lotus lanterns hung around the grounds to celebrate Buddha’s birthday. In preparation for the Lotus Lantern Festival, the entire area is decorated and it’s gorgeous. If you can’t visit in the spring, the building still shimmers and shines in any light all year round.
