About

Won Buddhism

The name Won Buddhism (Won-Bul-Kyo in Korean) is composed of three key concepts: truth, enlightenment, and teaching. Won means “circle,” symbolizing the ultimate truth. Bul means “enlightenment,” and Kyo means “teaching.” Together, Won Buddhism represents the path to awakening through the realization and teaching of truth.

Won Buddhism was founded in Korea in 1916, following the great enlightenment of Master Sotaesan (Park Joongbin, 1891–1943). He envisioned a form of spiritual practice that would be accessible and meaningful to all people—regardless of gender, social status, or background. His vision centered on equality: between clergy and laity, women and men, and across all economic and racial divides. This vision was embodied in the founding motto:

With this Great Opening of Matter,
Let there be a Great Opening of Spirit.

Sotaesan

A Modern Path Rooted in Ancient Truth

Won Buddhism seeks to revitalize and modernize Buddhism—bringing the timeless truths of the Buddha’s teachings into everyday life. It aims to make Buddhist principles and meditation practices practical, accessible, and deeply relevant to the needs of contemporary society.

Interreligious Harmony and the Ethics of Triple Identity

At the heart of Won Buddhism is an explicit acceptance of all religions and spiritual paths. Won Buddhism actively promotes interreligious cooperation through the guiding principle known as the Ethics of Triple Identity:

• All religions and spiritual traditions arise from a Common Source
• All human beings and all life forms are interconnected as one Earth family
• All human endeavors share a Common Purpose

Global Engagement and Cooperation

Since 1970, Won Buddhism has taken a leading role in promoting interreligious dialogue and collaboration—locally, nationally, regionally, and internationally. Interfaith understanding and cooperation are core teachings and lived practices of the tradition.

Won Buddhism has been accredited as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) by the United Nations Department of Public Information since 1992. It is a founding member of the Korean Conference of Religions for Peace (KCRP), and plays an active role in global organizations such as the Religions for Peace, the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB), and the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace (ACRP). Won Buddhist representatives have served as co-presidents and staff members in these international bodies.

Socially Engaged Buddhism

Won Buddhism is committed to active service in the world. Its members engage in efforts related to environmental sustainability, education, social welfare, community development, human rights, gender equality, and humanitarian aid. Through these actions, the teachings of the Buddha are brought to life in service of peace, justice, and compassion.