About us
The Won Buddhism United Nations & Interfaith Office serves as a platform that connects spiritual values with global responsibility. Grounded in the teachings of Won Buddhism, our engagement at the United Nations and within interfaith settings is dedicated to fostering peace, ethical leadership, and compassionate action in support of peaceful coexistence among peoples and harmony with the natural environment.
Won Buddhism is a modern spiritual tradition founded in Korea in the early twentieth century. It draws upon core Buddhist principles such as interdependence and impermanence, applying them to contemporary challenges in ways that support the well-being of individuals, societies, and the planet. Its teachings provide a practical framework for cultivating clarity of mind, harmonious relationships, and compassionate action, while fostering a shared sense of responsibility for inclusive social development and environmental sustainability.
Since 1992, Won Buddhism has been accredited as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) with the United Nations Department of Global Communications (formerly the Department of Public Information). Through this accreditation, the Won Buddhism UN & Interfaith Office engages in interfaith dialogue, faith-based partnerships, and collaborative initiatives that advance the United Nations’ goals of peace, human dignity, social justice, and sustainable development.
A representative of Won Buddhism has served as President of the Committee of Religious NGOs at the United Nations. Won Buddhism representatives have also held leadership roles as founding Co-Chairs of the Values Caucus at the UN and as organizers of the Universal Ethics Millennium Conference. Guided by principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared responsibility, Won Buddhism’s values align closely with those of the United Nations Charter, affirming the dignity and worth of the human person and advancing a vision of a One World Community rooted in the recognition of the interdependence of all beings.
While perspectives and approaches may differ, there is a shared commitment across cultures, faiths, and institutions to contribute to a more peaceful and just world. Rooted in this common purpose, we affirm the importance of cooperation among social, political, and religious communities to uphold truth, dignity, and justice. By drawing upon the diverse strengths and resources of these institutions, we work collectively toward building inclusive societies and advancing sustainable peace for present and future generations.
