Why Young Koreans Are Finding Solace in Buddha Dharma

by Kooi F.Lim, Op-Ed, The Buddhist Channel, 7 June 2026

SEOUL, South Korea -- On a Friday evening in late spring, the neon-lit cafés of Hongdae and the glass-and-steel canyons of Gangnam are buzzing as usual. Yet, a quieter, deeper current is moving through the generation raised on K-pop and academic cutthroat competition. As the nation prepares for Buddha’s Birthday, a long weekend draped in cascading lotus lanterns, a surprising demographic is turning toward the temples.

2026 Seoul International Buddhism Expo with Focus on ‘Emptiness’ and Modern Wellness

SEOUL – The Jogye Order, South Korea’s largest Buddhist sect, has officially announced that the 2026 Seoul International Buddhism Expo (BEXPO2026) and the International Seon Meditation Conference will take place from April 2 to 5, 2026, at the COEX convention center in Gangnam, Seoul. The four-day event aims to present the depth of modern Korean Buddhist culture to both domestic and international audiences.

South Korea: Thousands Gather for Meditation Festa Marking 70 Years of Lay Practice

The Buddhist Channel, 22 Sep 2025

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – A Seon meditation event was held at Gwanghwamun Square on Saturday. The event was named the “Happy Barami Seon Meditation Festa.” It was held to mark the 70th anniversary of the Lay Buddhist Association of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The event had an estimated 7,000 participants.