Mireukam (Uijeongbu)

Located on the slopes of Buyongsan Mountain, Mireukam is a temple that carries an interesting tale about a Mireuk Buddha statue and a farmer. It is a branch temple of Bongseonsa, the head temple of the 25th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and is designated as Gyeonggi-do Traditional Temple No. 76. The exact date of its initial founding is unknown, but it is said that during the reign of King Sejo of Joseon, a farmer discovered a Mireuk Buddha statue while plowing a field. Upon hearing this, King Sejo ordered State Councillor Shin Suk-ju to build a temple. Shin Suk-ju sponsored Monk Hyeam to construct the temple, naming it Mireukam. Based on this, the temple is believed to have been first established in the 1460s during King Sejo's reign. Later, in the 28th year of King Gojong's reign, Monk Unsong renovated it, and after several repairs, the current head monk rebuilt the main hall and paved the entrance road neatly. Although there are no significant relics or artifacts preserved at the temple, the Mireuk Buddha statue said to have been discovered by the farmer has been handed down to the present day and is enshrined in Yonghwajeon Hall alongside attendant bodhisattvas. Originally a stone Buddha, it was recently gilded with gold. The temple grounds include the main hall Yonghwajeon, Sansingak (Mountain Spirit Hall), and monks' quarters. It takes about 10 minutes by car from Tapseok Station on the Uijeongbu Light Rail, and is located on a gentle hill about 400 meters high, making it easy to climb. Behind the temple, a trail leads to the summit of Buyongsan Mountain, and nearby is the tomb of Shin Suk-ju, who has a deep connection with this temple. Nearby attractions include Uijeongbu Eastern Plaza, Budaejjigae Street, Dobongsan Mountain, Suraksan Mountain, and Jangheung Resort, making it a good place to explore together.