On June 2, Most Ven. Jinwoo, the president of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, met with delegations from the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, of Taiwan and the Buddhist Association of China at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Memorial Hall. The meeting was part of a pilgrimage organized by the Chinese and Taiwanese Buddhist communities to foster relationships with Korean Buddhism. The pilgrimage included visits to Tongdosa Temple, Haeinsa Temple, and Songgwang Temple, also known as the Three Jewel Temples.

“I understand that Chinese and Taiwanese Buddhism are at the forefront of culture, social activism, Dharma propagation, and spiritual practice to benefit sentient beings. All of this is based on the philosophy of humanistic Buddhism and contributes to the harmonious development of society,” said the president of the Jogye Order, welcoming the ordained sangha members and lay Buddhists of the delegations. 

“We are grateful for the welcome that the president has shown us on behalf of the Jogye Order,” said Master Hsin Bau, chairman of the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, and head abbot and director of Fo Guang Shan Monastery. “As Master Hsing Yun said, although we are from different Buddhist traditions, we are all one in Buddha's mind. Our presence here is a meaningful opportunity to engage in heart-to-heart dialogue across traditions and cultures, and we will continue to build bridges for Buddhist exchange.”

“Working together in the spirit of Mahayana Buddhism, we can contribute more to our society,” said Master Zhan Ru, the vice chairman of the Buddhist Association of China and abbot of Fawang Temple in Chengdu. “I hope that under Most Ven. Jinwoo’s leadership, Chinese-Korean Buddhist exchanges will flourish.”

During the meeting, the Taiwanese Buddhist community donated 50 million won to help with the recovery from the wildfire disaster, particularly the restoration of the lost cultural heritage. The donation was made in response to the devastating forest fires that swept through Korea’s southeastern regions in March this year. The fire resulted in the worst casualties ever, burned down temples, and destroyed forests. As he delivered the funds to Most Ven. Jinwoo, Master Hsin Bau, the chairman of the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, prayed for the affected areas to recover quickly.