Jangseong County Selects Monk Manam as Historical Figure of April

Led the Establishment of Baegyangsa Gobeul Chongnim
Dedicated His Life to Practice with the "Imuetgo" Meditation Topic
Left a Lasting Legacy in the Institutionalization of Korean Buddhism

Jangseong County in Jeollanam-do has selected the eminent monk Manam, who changed the course of modern Korean Buddhism, as the "Historical Figure of Jangseong for April."

Born in 1876 in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do, Manam became a monk in 1885 under Dojin at Baegyangsa Temple, and devoted himself to practice and Buddhist studies under various revered monks.

In 1916, upon becoming the 48th head monk of Baegyangsa, he led the temple’s reconstruction and dedicated himself to education by founding Hyehwa Professional School (now Dongguk University), as well as Jeonggwang Middle and High Schools.

A promotional poster introducing 'Monk Manam,' the historical figure of April selected by Jangseong County. It summarizes his life, highlighting his contribution to the establishment of Baekyangsa Gobul Chongnim and the institutionalization of Korean Buddhism. Provided by Jangseong County

Notably, in 1947, he established "Baegyangsa Gobeul Chongnim," the first comprehensive monastic training center in Korea, leading the institutionalization of Korean Buddhism. However, shortly after being appointed the Supreme Patriarch of the Jogye Order in 1954, he resigned in protest against a decision that changed the order’s founder.

In 1957, he passed away at the Seolseondang Hall of Baegyangsa. Throughout a turbulent era, he devoted his life to the meditation topic "Imuetgo," striving to eradicate Japanese influences in Buddhism and nurture talented individuals.

Jangseong County stated, "Manam elevated the status of Baegyangsa and became a central figure in the modern history of Korean Buddhism," adding, "We have chosen him as a historical figure to honor his legacy."

Even today, in front of the Sacheonwangmun Gate at Baegyangsa, there stands a pagoda inscribed with the "Imuetgo" meditation topic that he held onto throughout his life. "Imuetgo," meaning "What is this?", is a question directed inward by practitioners and marks the beginning of self-reflection.