Won Buddhism
The name Won Buddhism (Won-Bul-Kyo in Korean) is composed of three key concepts: truth, enlightenment, and teaching. Won means “circle,” symbolizing the ultimate truth. Bul means “enlightenment,” and Kyo means “teaching.” Together, Won Buddhism represents the path to awakening through the realization and teaching of truth.
Won Buddhism was founded in Korea in 1916, following the great enlightenment of Master Sotaesan (Park Joongbin, 1891–1943). He envisioned a form of spiritual practice that would be accessible and meaningful to all people—regardless of gender, social status, or background. At the heart of his vision was the aspiration to build a peaceful and just world for all through the harmony of material progress and spiritual cultivation. This aspiration was embodied in the founding motto:
As material civilization develops, cultivate spiritual civilization accordingly.
