The foundation stone laying ceremony of the “Korea–Sri Lanka Mahaviharaya”, the first-ever Sri Lankan Buddhist temple in South Korea, was held in the city of Pyeongtaek, situated about 80 km away from the capital city of Seoul, on Sunday 4th May 2014 with the participation of a large number of representatives of the Sri Lankan and Korean communities, including Korean and Sri Lankan Buddhist monks and devotees residing in the Republic of Korea.
This ceremony marked a significant moment in the history of Sri Lanka - Korea relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1977 as it is the first time that a Sri Lankan Buddhist temple will be established in Korea. Additionally, the foundation ceremony was made possible by the dedication of Venerable Thalgamuwe Dhammakiththi Thero and the generous financial support of the “Sadaham Mithuro” organization in Korea and other Korean Buddhist well wishers.
Ambassador Tissa Wijeratne attended the event as the Chief Guest. In his speech, Ambassador Wijeratne stated that the establishment of the Korea–Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara in Pyeongtaek will attract a large number of people from different parts of Korea who are all keen to understand and engage in the noble teachings of the Buddha, which promote loving kindness, compassion, non-violence, tolerance and service to all sentient beings. He further stated that this auspicious and joyous event promotes friendship and cooperation between the two countries, especially among the Sri Lankan and Korean Buddhist communities in Korea and that this Vihara will be invaluable in propagating the doctrine of Metta, a symbol of a reality where everyone lives in harmony and mankind can exist in peace and friendship. Ambassador Wijeratne ended his address with a wish for continued success and prosperity for the Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple.
The Embassy further recognizes that this project would not only meet the spiritual needs of Buddhists but would also cater to the variety of needs of Sri Lankan expatriates in South Korea and Korean nationals with teachings of Korean & Sinhala languages, practice of meditation and promotion of Sri Lankan traditions.
The noble task of building the Temple will be initiated on a 38-perch scenic block of land that will be further extended up to 108 perches with the raising of funds. The Temple will be temporarily set up at the site shortly in view of the forthcoming Vesak festival. The construction of the Vihara and Dagoba is expected to be completed by the year 2017.
Embassy of Sri Lanka,
Seoul
10 May 2014
