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Kwangbop Temple
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Kwangbop Temple, at the foot of Mt. Taesong in Pyongyang, has a long history dating back to the Goguryeo period. It was originally built in the late 4th century after Buddhism was introduced to Goguryeo. Throughout its history, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times, most recently during the Japanese colonial period and the Korean War. The current temple was extensively restored and reopened in 1990 by order of Kim Il-sung. It serves as a training center for Buddhist monks and as an example of state-controlled religious practice in North Korea. The architecture is a modern interpretation of traditional Korean temple construction. Though heavily reconstructed, Kwangbop Temple represents efforts to maintain a visible Buddhist heritage in the capital city.
- Location: North Korea
- Top sights: Kwangbopsa · Taesongsan · Central Zoo
- Nearby: Pyongsong (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -8 | -4 | 2 | 8 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 18 | 11 | 3 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 18 | 26 | 58 | 80 | 101 | 318 | 263 | 113 | 49 | 51 | 19 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Kwangbop Temple on Mount Taesong can be visited with special permission, but only with an official guide. The main hall and pagodas are visible from outside; entering is usually not allowed.
Typical hours
Visits only occur during official tour times that align with travel itineraries. Viewing outside these hours is not possible.
Photography
Photography is allowed around the temple, but ask your guide for permission before photographing the altar area. Flash and tripod are usually prohibited indoors.
Time needed
The stop at Kwangbop Temple within the tour typically lasts 15-20 minutes. This is enough for a short walk and a few photos of the exteriors.
Combine with
Combine this visit with a trip up Mount Taesong, which also houses the Revolution Museum and the observation tower. Many tours link the temple with a visit to Kim Il-sung Square.
Getting there
Mount Taesong is on the outskirts of Pyongyang and is only reachable by the tour operator's bus or car. Roads are well-built but closed to individual travelers.
Insider tip
Notice the ornate wood carvings on the temple ceiling - they are a rare surviving example of Goguryeo architecture. Wear appropriate clothing as the temple is considered a sacred site.
Geography
Facts
- Originally built in the year 392.
- One of the first Buddhist temples in Pyongyang.
- Destroyed during the Imjin War (1592-98).
- Destroyed again in the Korean War (1950-53).
- The 1990 reconstruction was part of a larger restoration project on Mt. Taesong.
- Contains a stele describing the temple's history.
- The temple is often shown to foreign delegations and tourists.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kwangbop Temple (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kwangbop Temple?
A Buddhist temple from the Goguryeo era, located at the foot of Mt. Taesong near Pyongyang.
Is the temple original?
It was destroyed in the Korean War and faithfully rebuilt in 1990 in the style of Goguryeo architecture.
What can you see there?
Visitors can see the colorful main gate, a five-story pagoda, and two ponds with lotus flowers.
How do you get to the temple?
It is usually part of a Pyongyang city tour, often combined with a visit to Taesong Park.
Are there monks there?
Yes, you occasionally see monks in traditional robes there who are responsible for the temple's upkeep.
Kwangbop Temple: where is it located?
Kwangbop Temple is located in North Korea.
Kwangbop Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kwangbopsa, Taesongsan, Central Zoo.
Kwangbop Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
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An amusement park on Mount Taesong, offering various rides and attractions for families and children.
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The national zoo of North Korea, founded in 1959.
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