Gilsangsa Temple

Gilsangsa Temple, on the southern slopes of Samgaksan Mountain in Seongbuk-dong, was once Daewongak, an exclusive restaurant where politicians held secret meetings. Its owner, the former gisaeng (courtesan) Kim Yeong-han, was moved by the monk Beopjeong's teachings on non-possession and donated the property, worth a hundred billion won; it became a temple in 1997. Some original restaurant features remain. It runs temple stays, meditation classes and Buddhist programs, its main hall holds 1,000 Buddha statues, and a shuttle bus comes from Hansung University Station.