According to the organizers, this year’s theme centers on the concept of “emptiness” (Sunyata), a core tenet of Buddhist philosophy. The expo will feature a multifaceted program that blends contemporary exhibitions, guided meditation sessions, artistic installations, and a dedicated showcase of vegan products.

By integrating these diverse elements, the event seeks to offer practitioners and the general public an immersive experience of how traditional Seon (Zen) principles are adapting to modern lifestyles.

The Jogye Order expects the expo to draw international participants and scholars, fostering a global dialogue on meditation and spiritual wellness alongside the cultural exhibition.

Unlike the online-only 2020 edition — which was held from November 5 to 8 that year due to the pandemic and featured a web conference on Korean, Vipassana, Mindfulness, and Tibetan Buddhist meditations — the 2026 event will be fully in-person at COEX, one of Seoul’s largest convention venues.

“This expo is a step forward from our previous online conferences,” a representative from the Jogye Order said. “We are returning to a physical space where people can directly experience the teachings, taste vegan temple cuisine, and engage with Seon meditation masters face-to-face. The theme of ‘emptiness’ is especially timely as people seek balance and meaning in a post-pandemic world.”

The 2026 BEXPO will also include an International Seon Meditation Conference featuring prominent monks and scholars from Korea and abroad. Detailed schedules, ticket prices, and participating instructors are released on the official expo website (www.bexpo.kr).

With COEX located in the heart of Gangnam, organizers are anticipating strong public interest and aiming to position the expo as a landmark event for Buddhist culture and contemplative wellness in East Asia.