Bokcheonam (Boeun)

Bokcheonam, located in Sokrisan National Park, Sanae-ri, Naesongni-myeon, Boeun-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, was founded in 720 (the 19th year of King Seongdeok of Silla) and underwent several reconstructions from the Goryeo to Joseon periods. According to the *Sinjeung Dongguk Yeoji Seungnam*, there was a spring east of Bokcheonsa where water gushed from between rocks, providing ample water for the temple, hence the name Bokcheon (meaning 'blessed spring'), from which the temple's name originated.

In 1464, King Sejo of Joseon prayed at this temple for three days, then bathed at a bathhouse on the path to the temple, which completely cured his skin disease. In gratitude, he ordered the temple to be rebuilt and bestowed a square jade plaque inscribed with 'Manseonboryeok' (Eternal Blessings). The temple was burned down in 1592 but was soon rebuilt. After being destroyed again, it was reconstructed in 1735 (the 11th year of King Yeongjo) and repaired in 1803 (the 3rd year of King Sunjo).