President Moon Condoles with Former Jogye Order Chief Monk Wolju Seunim

Photo by Cheongwadae

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] President Moon Jae-in visited the incense altar set up at Geumsansa Temple in Gimje-si, Jeonbuk, on the afternoon of the 23rd to pay his respects to the late Great Monk Wolju (月珠), former Chief Abbot of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the Blue House announced.

After performing three bows, President Moon faced the senior monks and joined his palms in a gesture of respect, saying, "I sincerely offer my condolences on the passing of the great monk. I firmly believe he has attained rebirth in the Pure Land." He added, "I had several opportunities to meet and listen to the great monk. I will never forget his bodhisattva practice and compassion, as he did not confine himself to mountain asceticism but always shared the sufferings of sentient beings." Afterwards, President Moon had a conversation with Ven. Wonhaeng, the current Chief Abbot of the Jogye Order and a disciple of Great Monk Wolju.

Ven. Wonhaeng expressed his gratitude, saying, "I appreciate the president, who always worries about the people and oversees state affairs, for personally paying his respects." He also stated, "Once the COVID-19 situation improves, we will carry out activities for peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula, including visits to the North."

President Moon said, "I am grateful to the Buddhist community for suspending religious ceremonies during the COVID-19 situation, actively cooperating with quarantine measures, and responding exemplarily."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.