Okcheonam (Seoul)

Okcheon means a very clear spring. There is a record that the spring water that came out here had medicinal effects, attracting patients. Additionally, in the Bodogak of Okcheonam, a rock-carved seated Bodhisattva statue is enshrined. This is also called the Sea Water Gwaneum Statue or the White Buddha of Bodogak. Here, 'Bodo' means 'to save all sentient beings,' referring to the vow of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva. Therefore, the Sea Water Gwaneum Statue is the most accurate name, and actual records also exist. The name 'White Buddha' seems to originate from records made by foreigners. The rock-carved seated Bodhisattva statue follows the style of Goryeo Dynasty rock-carved Buddha statues, and the oldest record of its formation is in 'Yongjaechonghwa' where it is recorded as 'Bulam.' Since the Silla Dynasty, there were influential temples such as Janguisa, Seunggasa, and Sahyeonsa in this area, so it is likely that Bodogak and Okcheonam were founded under their influence. There is a legend that King Taejo Yi Seong-gye of Joseon prayed here when he established his capital in Hanyang, a legend that General Gwon Yul fought a battle here during the Imjin War, and a legend that the wife of Heungseon Daewongun prayed here for her son Gojong.

Address: 1-38, Hongjimun-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (Hongeun-dong)