The city of Yongin, led by Mayor Lee Sang-il, held a completion ceremony on October 22 for the restoration of the Seobongsa temple site, located at the foot of Gwanggyo Mountain in the Sunae-dong area of Suji District.
The city reported that it has invested approximately 6.7 billion won (about $5.7 million) over the past 14 years, from January 2012 to September 2026, for excavation and restoration work in the area of 110 Sunae-dong.
After establishing a comprehensive restoration plan in 2012, the city conducted seven excavation surveys until 2023. Restoration work began in 2023 and was completed on September 28, covering an area of 16,097 square meters, including the temple building site and the retaining wall.
Mayor Lee stated, "We will manage this site better so future generations can understand the spirit of Hwaeom Buddhism and national defense Buddhism. We will also create a parking lot to allow more citizens to visit and gather public opinions to enhance the Seobongsa site."
According to the city, Seobongsa is believed to have been founded in the 11th century during the early Goryeo period. In 1407, it was designated as Jaboksa, a temple for praying for the country's peace and the prosperity of the region. The site is home to the treasure 'Yongin Seobongsa Hyeon-o Guksa Tablet.' This tablet was erected by disciples of Hyeon-o Guksa seven years after his passing in 1185, with the permission of King Myungjong of Goryeo.
During the excavation, a total of 994 artifacts were discovered, including Goryeo and Joseon-era inscribed tiles, a gilt-bronze crown ornament, bronze ritual vessels, stone Buddhist statues, and white porcelain lotus bud-shaped nails. The unearthed artifacts are currently on display at the Yongin Museum.
The city plans to restore the stone pagoda using the unearthed stone materials and to create a parking lot for visitors.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.