13-9-2023 (SEOUL) A young Buddhist monk, widely known as “kkot seunim” or the “flower monk,” has caused a stir by successfully selling out tickets to a temple tour program. The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism reported that their free night-time tour of Hwaeomsa was fully booked within just four hours of opening the booking process. The tour, which accommodates 22 participants on a first-come, first-served basis, includes a special tea time session with Venerable Beomjeong at the temple nestled on Jirisan Mountain in South Jeolla Province.
Venerable Beomjeong has gained significant popularity through his vibrant presence on social media, particularly on Instagram, where he boasts a following of over 23,000 users. His online persona has garnered attention, especially among individuals in their 20s and 30s, as he offers glimpses into his daily monastic life. The nickname “kkot seunim” reflects his aspiration to be like a flower—a practitioner who emanates a profound fragrance and beauty to touch the lives of others.
The emergence of an Instagram influencer monk coincides with the broader efforts of the Buddhist faith to engage younger generations through social media and other platforms. Hwaeomsa, in particular, has been actively organizing a variety of programs to attract young people. These initiatives include a flower photo contest, yoga competitions, and a film music festival.
Due to the overwhelming demand for the night-time tour, Hwaeomsa has decided to accommodate an additional 18 participants. Registration for these slots will open on the official website of the Jogye Order, specifically on Thursday from 10 am to 12 pm local time.
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