Taking Photos and Writing about Hongmaehwa and Deulmaehwa... Hwaeomsa Holds Photo Exhibition and Writing Contest

[Asia Economy Reporter Seomideum] Hwaeomsa Temple, the 19th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, is hosting a professional and mobile phone camera photo contest featuring Hongmaehwa and Deulmaehwa blossoms. Additionally, a youth writing contest will be held.

Started in 2021, this photo contest is now in its third year. Over the years, photos capturing the serene and aesthetic charm of the temple have gained attention. This year, submissions will be accepted from the 11th to the 26th of next month. Participants can upload their photos on the Hwaeomsa website, and the first 100 entrants will receive a BBQ chicken gift certificate.

Last year's best photo exhibition work.
[Photo courtesy of Hwaeomsa]

The photo exhibition awards include the Jogye Order General Secretary Award, the Propagation Office Director Award, the Education Office Director Award, and the District Head Award. One winner will be selected for each award, with prize money ranging from 3 million to 1 million KRW. All winners will receive a certificate and four 1-night, 2-day temple stay vouchers.

The opening ceremony will be held at 1 PM on the 18th of next month in front of Hwaeomsa Gakhwangjeon Hall. It will be organized as a "Small Concert Dedicated to Hongmaehwa," featuring the fusion band "Dubeonjjaedal" and the traditional singer 'O Danhae'.

On the day of the opening ceremony, the newly established "Youth Writing Contest" will take place for the first time. It will be held from 2 to 4 PM on the 18th for 500 middle and high school students. Registration is free and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis starting from the 16th. A total of 17 winners will be awarded, including one grand prize winner (Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award with 1 million KRW).

The winners of the photo contest and writing contest will be announced on April 3rd via the Hwaeomsa website. The award ceremony will be held at Hwaeomsa on May 27th.