Jogye Order Chief Executive Monk: "The Sin of Discomforting the People... I Reproach Politicians Every Time They Visit"

Chief Executive Monk Jinwoo Holds Press Conference Ahead of Buddha's Birthday
Blames Political Turmoil on Politicians
Responsibility for Causing Public Hardship
Vows to Soothe the People's Hearts

"In the past, when a major disaster occurred or the people faced hardship, the king would say, 'All responsibility lies with me,' blaming himself. The original sin of causing discomfort to the people lies with politicians. Do not try to take everything?take only half."

Jinwoo, the Chief Executive Monk of the Jogye Order, is holding a press conference for Buddha's Birthday on the 22nd at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

Jinwoo, the Chief Executive Monk of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, made these remarks at a press conference held at the Korean Buddhist History and Culture Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul, ahead of Buddha's Birthday (May 5). He pointed out, "Politicians have made the people extremely uncomfortable and deeply distressed."

Jinwoo further emphasized, regarding the recent visits by politicians, "Regardless of political affiliation, I have been reproaching politicians each time they visit." He explained that this is because the responsibility for the 12·3 Martial Law Incident and the subsequent political and social conflict lies with the political establishment.

Regarding the resolution of the martial law incident, he stressed the importance of accepting the court's verdict. Jinwoo stated, "We must respect the decision made by the Constitutional Court and unconditionally follow it," adding, "If we do not comply, the nation itself cannot be established."

On Pope Francis, who passed away on the 21st (local time), Jinwoo said, "In Buddhist terms, he was truly a Bodhisattva of compassion," expressing his deep condolences and stating, "I sincerely wish for his rebirth in the highest paradise."

To mark this year's Buddha's Birthday, the Jogye Order plans to invite socially disadvantaged individuals and those suffering from various incidents to participate in the celebrations. At the Buddha's Birthday ceremony to be held at Jogyesa Temple on May 5, the Order will invite residents affected by wildfires, bereaved families of the Muan International Airport Jeju Air disaster, and victims of rental fraud to offer comfort and support.

Additionally, the Jogye Order recently hosted an international Seon meditation festival aimed at improving the nation's mental health. The event featured a variety of programs, including the "Great Dharma Assembly for Overcoming National Crisis and Healing the Mind," where seven senior monks and meditation masters from major temples delivered teachings. Approximately 60,000 people attended the main event, and about 10,000 participated in related programs.

The Seoul International Buddhism Expo, which has gained significant public recognition, attracted around 200,000 visitors this year?double the number from last year. With its focus on a trendy, youthful Buddhism, more than 70% of participants were in their twenties and thirties.

This year, since Buddha's Birthday coincides with Children's Day, children will lead the lantern parade, and the number of programs and food options for children will be significantly increased.