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Korean Learning Lies DEBUNKED | A Glass with Billy

Over the past decade I've heard all sorts of language learning tips. Most have been useful and valid, and I've used several tips and shortcuts along the way to help my own learning. However I've also encountered a large amount of tips that are less than helpful, as well as several "shortcuts" for learning that can slow down learners - and so has my friend Forrest. We met up and discussed some of the most common "lies" about language learning, and how someone can avoid them.

The post Korean Learning Lies DEBUNKED | A Glass with Billy appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

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~해 가지고 "So..." | Live Class Abridged

The form ~해 가지가 (or ~갖고) is often compared to ~서 as being an informal version, but they're actually not interchangeable in many cases. In Sunday's live stream I covered how they're similar and how they're different, and gave several examples of this form. The abridged version is here to watch and is only 10 minutes long.

The post ~해 가지고 "So..." | Live Class Abridged appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

Can my 7-year old son beat me at this Korean word chain game?

끝말잇기 is a Korean word game where you have to connect the start of a word with the ending of the previous word, using Korean syllables. I played this game together with my 7-year old son Jeremy several times to see who would be the victor.

The post Can my 7-year old son beat me at this Korean word chain game? appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

“And” in Korean – Using it as a particle and conjunction

And then it came time to learn “and” in Korean. Conjunctions such as “and” are simultaneously so easy and so hard to learn in a different language. They may not translate the same way from one language to another, but at the same time, they are often used in similar ways.

And in Korean text with flower accents in the borders

In the case of “and,” it has usages that both correspond to how the English language uses it and also have ways to use it that may not be seen in the English language. After this article, we hope you will have a more comprehensive understanding of the various ways to use and say “and” in Korean.

Let’s go!

Different ways to say “and” in Korean

There are four main ways to say “and” in Korean. We will list each one of them below.

-하고 (hago) and -고 (go)

This is a very standard way of saying “and.” Therefore, you will most commonly hear and see this structure being used. It links two actions (고 | go) or two objects (하고 | hago) together in a sentence. It is especially common to use in spoken language, but it isn’t rare to see in written texts, either.

새 카메라하고 프린터를 사고 싶어요. (sae kamerahago peurinteoreul sago sipeoyo.)

I want to buy a new camera and printer.

는 비디오 게임을 하 남자친구는 축구를 해요. (naneun bidio geimeul hago namjachinguneun chukgureul haeyo.)

I play video games, and my boyfriend plays football.

이 신발은 너무 예쁘 편안해요. (i sinbareun neomu yeppeugo pyeonanhaeyo.)

These shoes are so pretty and comfortable.

그리고 (geurigo)

This structure links two sentences or two nouns together. Depending on the context, 그리고 (geurigo) translates as either “and” or “and then.” In many ways, it is quite identical to -하고.

However, in the case of 그리고 (geurigo), what follows after the word “and” is typically more of an afterthought. So, in a way, 그리고 (geurigo) is linking together two separate sentences, whereas 하고 (hago) links together two or more different things in the same sentence.

먼저 점심을 먹을 거예요. 그리고 영화를 보러 갈 거예요. (meonjeo jeomsimeul meogeul geoyeyo. geurigo yeonghwareul boreo gal geoyeyo.)

First I will eat lunch. And then, I will go watch a movie.

비빔밥, 불고기, 그리고 떡갈비 먹고 싶어요. (bibimbap, bulgogi, geurigo tteokgalbi meokgo sipeoyo.)

I want to eat bibimbap, bulgogi, and tteokgalbi.

(이)랑 (irang)

Here -랑 (rang) is added after vowels, while -이랑 (irang) is added after a consonant. While it is not regarded as informal as such, it is incredibly casual and almost solely used in spoken Korean. In English, this may even be better translated as “with” rather than “and.”

It also has some other applicable translations that may be used. If there is more than one object mentioned in the sentence, you can attach -(이)랑 to each of them rather than just the first one.

오늘 친구랑 영화를 보 쇼핑했어요. (oneul chingurang yeonghwareul bogo syopinghaesseoyo.)

Today I watched a movie and shopped with a friend.

나는 여자친구 밥을 먹었어. (naneun yeojachingurang babeul meogeosseo.)

I had a meal with my girlfriend.

배고파서 김밥이랑 떡볶이를 먹었어요. (baegopaseo gimbabirang tteokbokkireul meogeosseoyo.)

I was hungry, so I ate kimbab and tteokbokki.

-와 (wa) and -과 (gwa)

Of all the options, these are the ones to use in formal situations, specifically added after a noun. It cannot be used after a sequence of objects; there can be only two nouns in the sentence. -와 (wa) is added after a noun ending in a vocal, and -과 (gwa) is added after a noun ending in a consonant.

This is a common way to use “and” in written Korean. It also works great in professional situations. However, this is usually avoided in spoken Korean.

Just like with the other options on this list, -와 (wa)/-과 (gwa) can also be used for other meanings, at least in how the word translates to other languages in context. For example, it can be used to state that something is different “from” another thing. It can also be translated as “with” or even “as”.

결정을 내리기 전에 어머니 이야기를 해봐야 해요. (gyeoljeongeul naerigi jeone eomeoniwa iyagireul haebwaya haeyo.)

I’ll have to talk with my mother before I make a decision.

미식축구 축구는 매우 달라요. (misikchukguwa chukguneun maeu dallayo.)

American football is very different from football.

내 대답은 어제 같아. (nae daedabeun eojewa gata.)

My answer is the same as yesterday.

제일 좋아하는 음식은 피자 스시예요. (jeil joahaneun eumsigeun pijawa seusiyeyo.)

My favorite foods are pizza and sushi.

“And” as a Korean particle

To summarize, “and” is largely used as a particle in the Korean language. -과 (gwa)/-와 (wa), -(이)랑 (irang), and -하고 (hago) all serve as the particle “and,” as well as the particle “with.” We have an article on Korean particles, where we give some supporting information on this topic.

“And” as a Korean conjunction

As you may have noticed above, “and” also doubles as a conjunction in the Korean language. As such, it is not only -과 (gwa)/-와 (wa), -(이)랑 (irang), and -하고 (hago) that work as conjunctions, but 그리고 (geurigo) and -고 (go) as well. Here, it connects sentences and phrases together. We have an article on the topic, if you would like to get more familiar with Korean conjunctions.

Wrap Up

Now, do you believe you can handle the word “and” in Korean? We think you’ll be able to! As you can see, it operates quite similarly as it does in other languages, especially as a conjunction.

Understanding how the Korean words for “and” also operate as particles and other words may be trickier, but after this lesson, you’ll know a little better. And if you feel ready, you can start making sample sentences below in the comments! Next up, how about learning how to say “of course?”

The post “And” in Korean – Using it as a particle and conjunction appeared first on 90 Day Korean.

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즉(슨) | Live Class Abridged

This past Sunday I had a live class about the ADVANCED LEVEL grammar form ~즉(슨), which can be used like the Topic Marker (은/는) and has several uses. The full live stream lasted over an hour and a half, with some technical difficulties in the middle, but this abridged version is just over 10 minutes long.

The post 즉(슨) | Live Class Abridged appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

Capturing Moments and Looking Forward: A New Year Update from Sajin Photography


Greetings, Photography Enthusiasts! --✨

As we have bid farewell to the past year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve shared in the world of photography. The December 2023 gallery exhibition was nothing short of a triumph, and the outpouring of support from this fantastic city was truly amazing. The city of Ulsan support made it a resounding success, and I’m immensely grateful for every all that they’ve done.

Gallery Exhibition Recap: A December to Remember

The gallery exhibition in December 2023 was a culmination of passion, dedication, and creativity. It was a bit of a struggle at times but in the end it was a success. I was just overjoyed that my students could have their images displayed on the walls of the Ulsan Culture and Arts Center. My students have fueled my determination to delve even deeper into the art of storytelling through the lens and to create more lessons for them in the coming months.

Teaching and Sharing Knowledge at Ulsan Support Center for Foreigners

Looking ahead, the journey continues! I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be continuing to teach photography classes at the Ulsan Support Center for Foreigners, tentatively starting in March 2024. The opportunity to share knowledge and foster a community of budding photographers is something I eagerly anticipate.

This was something that I took great joy in doing over the past year. The friends that I have made through this class and the experiences were unforgettable. I am really grateful for the opportunity to teach these classes.

Growing as a Photographer in 2024

As we step into the New Year, my aspirations as a photographer reach new heights. I am committed to expanding my portfolio, pushing the boundaries of creativity, and capturing moments that transcend the ordinary. This year is about growth, both personally and artistically.

After teaching photography every Saturday, for at least 2 hours, it sparked a new passion for the art that was starting to dim in the last few years. Now, I am fired up about the numerous photographic adventures that I am going to go on in this coming year.

Building Strong Partnerships

In my quest for excellence, I’m excited to explore collaborations with esteemed companies such as K&F Concept and others. Building strong relationships within the industry will not only enhance my craft but also open doors to exciting opportunities for all of us.

In 2023, I was very fortunate to have won not only a magnetic filter set from K&F Concept but also a brand new tripod! Not to mention they even gave me a medal!

To me, K&F Concept is doing a great job of building a community on Facebook and I encourage you to join their group as well. Not just for the contests but for the community too.

Upcoming Project Teaser

Hold onto your lenses, for there’s a thrilling announcement on the horizon! In the coming months, I’ll be embarking on a significant project that promises to be a visual spectacle. Stay tuned for updates as I unveil the details, and let’s embark on this journey together.

As we navigate the uncharted waters of 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering support this community has provided. Here’s to another year of chasing light, capturing stories, and growing as photographers. Together, let’s make 2024 a year to remember!

Wishing you all a year filled with boundless creativity and breathtaking captures,

Jason Teale ---- #PhotographyJourney #NewYearUpdate #SajinPhotographyBlog

The post Capturing Moments and Looking Forward: A New Year Update from Sajin Photography appeared first on The Sajin.


Jason Teale 

Photographer, educator, podcaster

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Photographing Korea and the world beyond!

 

 

Cheongamsa Temple – 청암사 (Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do)

Cheongamsa Temple in Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do.

Temple History

Cheongamsa Temple is located in southern Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do to the north of Mt. Sudosan (1,317.3 m). The story of Cheongamsa Temple is one of being built, destroyed, and being rebuilt, once more. In total, Cheongamsa Temple was rebuilt a total of five times. The temple was first established in 859 A.D. by the famed monk Doseon-guksa (826-898 A.D.). Little is known about Cheongamsa Temple during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) and the early part of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). In 1647, the temple was completely destroyed by fire. The temple was later reconstructed by the monks Heojeong-hwasang and Hwanu-daesa. After Cheongamsa Temple was reconstructed, it was nothing more than a small hermitage that fell under the direct administration of Ssanggyesa Temple.

Unfortunately, the temple would be destroyed, once more, by fire in April, 1782. Cheongamsa Temple would be reconstructed some twenty years later by the monk Hwanu. The temple would close in 1897, but it would be rebuilt over several years by the monk Daeun. Eventually, the temple would be re-opened in 1904. The reconstruction cost of the temple was contributed by Song Seol-dang (1855-1939), who was also the founder of the Gimcheon Middle and High School. The temple would be destroyed by fire in 1911, and it was restored the next year, once more, by the monk Daeun.

In the early 1900s, the Geukrak-jeon Hall was built. Then in the spring of 1912, the Bogwang-jeon Hall was completed. It was also at this time that the multi-armed and headed statue of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) was housed inside the shrine hall. And from 1987 to 2005, Cheongamsa Temple continued to be reconstructed and rebuilt to appear as it does now.

In 1987, Cheongamsa Temple established the Sungga-daehakgyo (Buddhist Women’s College for the training of female monks). The college program is a four year program. There are two hermitages directly associated with Cheongamsa Temple. They are the famed Sudoam Hermitage, which was also founded by Doseon-guksa, and Baekryeonam Hermitage, which was founded in 1900.

Temple Layout

As you first near the temple grounds, you’ll be welcomed by the Iljumun Gate. This stately entry gate has a signboard on it that reads “Cheongamsa Temple Bulyeongsan” on it. Obviously, the sign indicates the name of the temple, while also referencing the other name to the mountain where the temple is located. Mt. Bulyeongsan means “Buddha Spirit Mountain” in English.

A little further up the trail, and you’ll come to a clearing that houses both the Cheonwangmun Gate and a collection of biseok (stele). The first of the two biseok are housed inside protective pavilions. The stele on the right is dedicated to Huidang, while the biseok to the left is dedicated to Daeun. And to the left of these pavilions are a row of five unsheltered biseok. As for the Cheonwangmun Gate, you’ll find four beautiful paintings dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings inside it.

A little further up the trail, but before making your way across the wooden bridge, you’ll find a large collection of ancient graffiti carved across the face of the numerous boulders. The combination of ancient graffiti, the meandering stream, and the wooden bridge make for a beautiful view. It’s also in this area that you’ll find a small spring named Ubicheon. Supposedly, and according to the geomantic principles for which Doseon-guksa, the founder of Cheongamsa Temple, was renowned, the temple site is extremely auspicious and thought to appear like a cow lying down. This spring is thought to represent the cow’s nose. The nose of a healthy cow is constantly wet; and likewise, the temple and the nation would always prosper as long as the Ubicheon flowed steadily. Conversely, in times of national crisis, the spring is said to dry up.

Continuing up the pathway, you’ll come to a compound divided by the stream. Rather uniquely, Cheongamsa Temple is divided into two major courtyards. The first of these courtyards is situated to the north of the stream. Before crossing the Geukrak-gyo Bridge, you’ll find the beautiful Jong-ru Pavilion. Housed inside this pavilion are the four traditional percussion instruments. The first of these four percussion instruments is the blue Mokeo (Wooden Fish Drum), which has its mouth wide open. In front of this is a modern-looking Unpan (Cloud Plate Drum). The surface of this plate drum is adorned with a vibrant metal relief of the sun and the moon. And next to this is the large temple bronze bell that’s crowned by a statue of Poroe (The Dragon that Adorns the Top of the Temple Bell). And finally, you’ll see the Beopgo (Dharma Drum). This large drums rests atop a realistic wooden statue of a green turtle. All four percussion instruments are masterful.

Finally crossing the bridge, you’ll find the large Manse-ru Pavilion. To the left and right of this large entry gate, which also acts as a place for large dharma talks, are a collection of buildings. These buildings are the Yosachae (monks’ dorms), administrative offices, and the kitchen facilities. And to the far left, you’ll find the Nambyeol-dang Hall, which is where Queen Inhyeon (1667-1701) lived after being stripped of her royal title in 1689. The building features a traditional style similar to palace architecture in deference to the queen’s fate. Queen Inhyeon would eventually be re-instated as the queen in 1694. Now the building that once housed Queen Inhyeon during her exile is used as the temple’s college.

But it’s directly behind the Manse-ru Pavilion that you’ll find the beautiful Daeung-jeon Hall. Out in front of the Daeung-jeon Hall is the “Multi-Storied Stone Pagoda of Cheongamsa Temple,” which is also a Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Property Material. This slender pagoda stands 4.21 metres in height and was moved from the neighbouring city of Seongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do to its present location in 1917. The architectural style of the pagoda appears to date back to the late Joseon Dynasty. Originally, the pagoda had five stories; but now, only four of the original five stories still remain. The pagoda seems somewhat unbalanced because of its wide base and narrow body stones. Adorning the base of the pagoda on all four sides is a lotus relief design. And the first body stone of the pagoda is adorned with a relief of the Buddha on all four of its sides, as well.

As for the Daeung-jeon Hall, the exterior walls are adorned with various Buddhist-related murals. These masterful murals include images of Munsu-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Wisdom) riding a blue haetae, Bohyeon-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Power) riding a white elephant, various guardians striking menacing poses, as well as a collection of various Bodhisattvas near the side entries to the main hall.

Stepping inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find a solitary statue of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha) resting under an atypical box-like canopy painted in red, blue, and white colours. There are two long, wooden dragons book-ending the main altar that the statue of Seokgamoni-bul rests upon. Looking up at the ceiling of the Daeung-jeon Hall, the red, blue, and white colour motif continues. There are two large, wooden dragons that protectively look down on the main hall from the wooden beams. Adorning every surface of the main hall are images of Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities), Nahan (The Historical Disciples of the Buddha), a white rabbit, a white deer, a phoenix, and lotus flower designs. Directly to the right of the main altar is an older Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural). This painting is joined in this area by a fantastic incarnation of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), who is accompanied by a golden-eyed tiger. And to the left of the main altar, you’ll find an equally older image dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars), as well as an impressive image dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint). In this painting, the mountain stream swirls at his feet, while he contemplatively rests his arm and hand on rock outcroppings.

Recrossing the Geukrak-gyo Bridge, and making your way up an uneven set of stone stairs, you’ll make your way towards the southern courtyard at Cheongamsa Temple that houses both the Geukrak-jeon Hall and the Bogwang-jeon Hall. There is a sign in this area, and it can seem a bit confusing, but follow the arrows on the sign to help direct you. The first of the two shrine halls that you’ll come across is the Geukrak-jeon Hall. Unfortunately, this shrine hall is off-limits to the general public.

Just to the south of the Geukrak-jeon Hall, and book-ended by the outer wall of the Geukrak-jeon Hall to the north and another building to the south, you’ll find the Bogwang-jeon Hall. The Bogwang-jeon Hall was originally built at the time that Queen Inhyeon came to live at Cheongamsa Temple in 1689. Through the years, the shrine hall eventually fell into disrepair. It would be rebuilt in 1905 by the monks Daeun and Eungun. Out in front of the Bogwang-jeon Hall is a beautiful, new incense burner. The entire surface of the incense burner is adorned with reliefs of lotus flowers. As for the Bogwang-jeon Hall, and the front entry doors, you’ll find paintings of tri-coloured taegeuk images, as well as a pair of Gwimyeon (Monster Masks) and a central lotus flower painting. The exterior walls are adorned with various paintings that include one of a blue dragon, a traditional-looking tiger, as well as various images of the Sinseon (Taoist Immortals).

Stepping inside the Bogwang-jeon Hall, you’ll be greeted by the early 20th century statue of Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion). The somewhat chubby image of Gwanseeum-bosal is both multi-armed and headed. Like the Daeung-jeon Hall, the interior is adorned with the colours of red, blue, and white. Looking up at the ceiling of the shrine hall, you’ll find images of the Sinseon (Taoist Immortals), Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities), as well as images of the sun and the moon, which are in deference to the royal family. To the right of the main altar, you’ll find an older Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural), as well as a wonderful image dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), who looks to be both contemplative and forlorn. And joining Sanshin is a tiger that has demonic eyes. To the left of the main altar are a pair of paintings. The first is an image dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint). In this painting, Dokseong looks just as forlorn as Sanshin but a little more hopeful. If you look closely at the dongja (attendants), you’ll notice a beautiful collection of tea cups and a tea pot. And hanging on the far left wall is a painting dedicated to Chilseong (The Seven Stars).

How To Get There

From the Gimcheon Intercity Bus Terminal, you can take Bus #86-3 to get to Cheongamsa Temple. In total, you will need to take this bus for 53 stops, which will take 68 minutes, and get off at the “Cheongamsa Stop – 청암사 하차.” From where the bus drops you off, you’ll simply need to walk an additional 200 metres, or 5 minutes, to get to Cheongamsa Temple.

Overall Rating: 8/10

Cheongamsa Temple has this wonderful, remote feel to it. Perhaps it’s the long valley that leads up to it, and perhaps its the geomantic principles of Doseon-guksa at play, but Cheongamsa Temple has this amazing feel to it. Its link to royal history, as well as its natural beauty, add to the temple’s overall appeal. Also of interest is the artwork in and around the Daeung-jeon Hall like the interior paintings, as well as the shaman paintings dedicated to Sanshin and Dokseong inside the main hall. The four traditional percussion instruments inside the Jong-ru Pavilion are masterful, as are the fading murals that adorn the exterior walls of the Bogwang-jeon Hall in the southern courtyard. Also of interest are the shaman murals housed inside this hall, as well. Overall, Cheongamsa Temple presents a beautiful combination of natural and artistic beauty. While rather remote, and somewhat unknown, Cheongamsa Temple is a wonderful example of a temple at its solemn best.

The Iljumun Gate at Cheongamsa Temple.
The Cheonwangmun Gate.
The painting of Damun Cheonwang inside the Cheonwangmun Gate.
The pair of pavilions that house biseok (stele) at the entry of the temple grounds.
A look back at the Cheonwangmun Gate from the stream near the northern courtyard at Cheongamsa Temple.
The Jong-ru Pavilion on the southside of the temple stream.
The Beopgo (Dharma Drum) with a green turtle at its base inside the Jong-ru Pavilion.
The view from the Manse-ru Pavilion out towards the Jong-ru Pavilion.
The “Multi-Storied Stone Pagoda of Cheongamsa Temple” in the northern courtyard.
A look up at the Daeung-jeon Hall.
Some of the Bodhisattva paintings that adorn one of the exterior walls of the Daeung-jeon Hall.
As well as this fierce guardian.
The main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The beautiful Sanshin (Mountain Spirit) painting inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
Some of the Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities) that adorn some of the interior surfaces of the Daeung-jeon Hall.
And one of the Nahan (The Historical Disciples of the Buddha) paintings inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The off-limits Geukrak-jeon Hall.
The Bogwang-jeon Hall at Cheongamsa Temple.
The fading tiger painting that adorns one of the exterior walls of the Bogwang-jeon Hall.
The beautiful main altar inside the Bogwang-jeon Hall.
The forlorn painting of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside the Bogwang-jeon Hall.
Joined by this equally forlorn image of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
And a look up at the ceiling of the Bogwang-jeon Hall at a Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deity) and a white moon.

I Always Visit These 5 Places When I Go To Korea

Each year I take a trip (or two) to visit Korea. These are the places that I always visit in Korea.

I always visit Namdaemun Market (남대문시장), Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을), Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌), Suwon Fortress (수원 화성), and N Seoul Tower (N서울타워).

Do you also visit these places? Where else do you like to visit? Let me know here or in the video's comments.

The post I Always Visit These 5 Places When I Go To Korea appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

Anyangam Hermitage – 안양암 (Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do)

Anyangam Hermitage on the Tongdosa Temple Grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do.

Hermitage History

Anyangam Hermitage is located on the Tongdosa Temple grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do. The name of the hermitage means “Peace Bright Hermitage” in English. It’s unknown as to when the hermitage was first built, but it was repaired in 1295 by the monk Chanin. Anyangam Hermitage was later repaired in 1865, as well. The view that Anyangam Hermitage enjoys of Mt. Yeongchuksan (1,081 m) to the north and Tongdosa Temple to the east is designated as one of the eight most scenic sights on the Tongdosa Temple grounds.

Anyangam Hermitage is home to two Gyeongsangnam-do Tangible Cultural Properties. The first is the Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) that dates back to 1861, while the other is the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall that dates back to the late Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Hermitage Layout

You first approach Anyangam Hermitage from the temple parking lot along a beautiful, scenic trail that looks out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan. The views from here are absolutely stunning. Before making your way down the stairs that lead towards the Geukrak-jeon Hall, have a look to your right. To your right you’ll find the Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall. The exterior walls to this shaman shrine hall are adorned in traditional dancheong colours. There are two signboards above the two front entrances. The right signboard is for Dokseong (The Lonely Saint), while the left signboard is for Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit). Stepping inside the shaman shrine hall, you’ll find two paintings on the main altar. Both are modern depictions of the two shaman deities. While the mural dedicated to Sanshin has a prowling tiger next to the Mountain Spirit, a pair of magpies are perched on a red pine tree next to the head of Dokseong.

Making your way down the stairs, you’ll notice a pair of shrine halls in this area. The smaller one to your left is the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, while the larger one straight ahead of you is the Geukrak-jeon Hall. Originally, the hermitage was nothing more than the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, which means “North Pole Hall” in English. Another more common name for the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall at other temples and hermitages is the Chilseong-gak Hall, which is dedicated to the worship of Chilseong (The Seven Stars). Traditionally, the belief in Chilseong, which was adopted by Korean Buddhism, was first found in Chinese Taoism. The belief in Korea in Chilseong is related to longevity and extending one’s life. As for the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall at Anyangam Hermitage, it is quite small is size. The exterior walls to the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall are adorned with traditional dancheong colours. And hanging above the entry to the shaman shrine hall is a fierce, blue wood relief of a Gwimyeon (Monster Mask). Stepping inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, you’ll realize that the entire interior is filled with beautiful murals. The main altar is occupied by seven representations of Chilseong. Above the central image that depicts Jeseok (Indra), you’ll find a compact canopy. And above this is beautiful pair of swirling dragons. The ceiling is adorned with images of Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities), as well as intricate lotus flower paintings. Also adorning some of the surfaces inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall are strangely painted Gwimyeon and newer paintings dedicated to the Bodhidharma and various Bodhisattvas. At the ends of the central beams inside the shrine hall are a pair of older looking wood sculptures of dragons. The interior of this shaman shrine hall is one of the most unique that I’ve seen inside a shaman shrine hall.

Just beyond the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall is the large, new Geukrak-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to the main hall are adorned with a beautiful collection of Buddhist murals that include a set of Palsang-do (The Eight Scenes from the Buddha’s Life Murals), the Shimu-do (The Ox-Herding Murals), Bicheon, Wonhyo-daesa (617-686 A.D.) and Uisang-daesa (625-702 A.D.), as well as the Bodhidharma.

Stepping inside the spacious Geukrak-jeon Hall, you’ll find a large, solitary statue of Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise) on the main altar. To the left of the main altar is a painting and statue dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife). And hanging on the far right wall is a modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural). Hanging above this large, modern painting is the older Shinjung Taenghwa from 1861 that’s a Gyeongsangnam-do Tangible Cultural Property. Rounding out the interior of the Geukrak-jeon Hall are two sets of paintings. The lower set of paintings are beautiful floral murals, while the upper set of paintings are dedicated to the Sinseon (Taoist Immortals).

To the south of the Geukrak-jeon Hall is the Yosachae (monks’ dorms), as well as the administrative office. It’s also in this area that you’ll find a trail that leads down to Tongdosa Temple.

How To Get There

From Busan, you’ll first need to get to the Nopo subway stop, which is stop #134. From there, go to the intercity bus terminal. From the intercity bus terminal get a bus bound for Tongdosa Temple. The ride should last about 25 minutes. The buses leave every 20 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. From where the bus drops you off at the Tongdosa Temple bus stop, you’ll need to walk an additional 10 minutes to the temple grounds west of the bus stop.

From Tongdosa Temple park lot, you’ll need to continue walking up the road to your left. Follow this road for about a kilometre. Instead of heading straight towards Seounam Hermitage, you’ll need to hang a right. Heading uphill, you’ll first pass by Sudoam Hermitage along this road. Continue up this road until you get to the turn-off for Anyangam Hermitage. The road leading into Anyangam Hermitage winds and turns, but eventually you’ll arrive at the hermitage.

Overall Rating: 5/10

There are a few highlights to this Tongdosa Temple hermitage. The first of which are the views from Anyangam Hermitage out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan. As for shrine halls at Anyangam Hermitage, the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall is a must-see, especially the interior of the shaman shrine hall with various 19th century murals. Another beautiful highlight at Anyangam Hermitage are the murals that surround the interior of the Geukrak-jeon Hall, as well as the 19th century Shinjung Taenghwa housed inside the main hall. Anyangam Hermitage is one of the top five hermitages at Tongdosa Temple.

The view at Anyangam Hermitage out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan.
The trail leading up to the hermitage.
A statue of Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) as you near the hermitage grounds.
The painting of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint) inside the Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall.
Joined by this beautiful painting dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit).
A look towards the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
The signboard and fierce Gwimyeong (Monster Mask) above the entry to the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
Inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
A look up at the ceiling of the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
And a rather strangely painted Gwimyeon (Monster Mask).
A look towards the Geukrak-jeon Hall (right) and the Yosachae (left).
One of the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
The Geukrak-jeon Hall is also adorned with this mural of Wonhyo-daesa (left) and Uisang-daesa (right)
As well as this beautiful painting of a Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deity).
A look inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
Inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall is this painting dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife).

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