Photo via Pexels
Won Buddhism
Won Buddhism — a modern Korean tradition integrating meditation, ethics, and social engagement around the Il-Won symbol.
Won Buddhism was founded in Korea by Sotaesan (Park Chungbin, 1891–1943). It presents a modernized Buddhist path organized around Il-Won (“One Circle”), emphasizing meditation, mindful living, and practical ethics for lay society.
Won temples teach sitting meditation, scripture study from the Won Buddhist canon, and community service. The tradition has centers in Korea and abroad, often welcoming newcomers with clear introductory programs.
Practices
Sitting meditation
Daily practice aimed at recovering the original mind.
Timeless Zen in daily life
Applying mindfulness to work, family, and civic life.
Scripture study
Reading the *Scripture of the Founding Master* and related texts.
Texts
The Scriptures of Won-Buddhism
Primary canon of the tradition.