Cultural Heritage Administration Commemorates National Treasure Designation of Buan Naesosa Temple Bell

Issuance of National Treasure Designation Certificate in Front of New Residents and Local Community

The Cultural Heritage Administration will hold a commemorative event for the designation of the Buan Naesosa Temple Bronze Bell as a National Treasure at 2 p.m. on the 9th in the Daeungbojeon Hall and Storage Room of Naesosa Temple in Buan. Devotees of Naesosa Temple and local residents will be invited to enjoy celebratory performances and receive the National Treasure designation certificate.

The Buan Naesosa Temple Bronze Bell is a late Goryeo period work featuring Unified Silla-era colors. It is the largest among the bronze bells produced during that time. Its provenance is confirmed through the casting record (Jujonggi, 鑄鍾記) and relocation record (Iangi, 移安記). According to these, the craftsman Han Jung-seo cast it in 1222, and it was moved to Naesosa Temple in 1850.

Its decorative and sculptural qualities are outstanding, making it a prime example of late Goryeo period bronze bells. A Cultural Heritage Administration official explained, "It is a very important resource for studying the history of Korean bronze bells and their production techniques and methods," adding, "Its academic value is high because all its provenance details, including the enshrinement location, donors, and craftsmen, are precisely known." The official also stated, "We will continue systematic management and support in cooperation with Buan County."