Formation and Development of the National Temples in the Capital of Baekje

Author: Lee, Byongho

Page: 5-56

Abstract

The concept of ‘National Temples’ refers to significant temples that serve a political and social role within a specific nation, functioning as symbolic entities of the nation and utilizing Buddhism as a tool of governance. In Chapter 2, the concepts of national temples in China and Japan were discussed. In China, notable examples include the Yongning Temple in Luoyang, the Zhao Pengcheng Temple site in Yepsung during the Northern Wei and Northern Qi periods, and the Daxingshan Temple in Chang'an during the Sui Dynasty. These temples were distinguished from regular temples by their large Buddhist stupas, halls, and various Buddhist rituals, and were supported by the nation, with their costs borne by the government. Similarly, Japan operated a system of "Daiji" (Great Temples), such as Baekje Daiji (Daegwan Daiji) and Yakushiji, where the national managed and financially supported the temples. While the national temples in China and Japan shared Buddhist governance and ceremonial symbolism, they developed differently according to each nation's political context and city structures.

Chapter 3 focuses on the establishment and development of national temples in Baekje. Baekje adopted Buddhism in 384 CE and constructed its first Buddhist temple in Hansan in 385 CE, marking an important symbolic architectural establishment for the capital. King Seong established the Dae Tongsa Temple in the capital of Ungjin in 527 CE, marking the beginning of national temples with political significance.

The Dae Tongsa Temple was located at a key transportation hub near the Jeomincheon River, though early architectural remains are scarce, artifacts and roof tiles from the period were discovered. In 538 CE, King Seong moved the capital to Sabi, where the city’s defenses and structure were planned, and many temples were built, including important national temples such as the Jeongnimsa and Gunsuri temple site.

Jeongnimsa was located in the heart of the Sabi capital and appears to have been constructed at a national level, while Gunsuri temple site had nation support but was of lower status compared to Jeongnimsa.

Mireuksaji, established in the mid-7th century by King Mu’s queen, was the largest temple with notable architectural features like the nine-story wooden pagoda and stone pagoda. However, Mireuksaji was located in Iksan, not the capital of Sabi, and its construction may have continued after King Mu's death, making it difficult to classify as a national temple. Additionally, the Dae Gwan Temple found at the Wanggungni site appears to have been established by Silla for managing Baekje’s territory, thus unrelated to Baekje's national temples.​​