The Focus of Won-Buddhism for the Next 36 Years is Suicide Prevention: "We Will Faithfully Fulfill the Role of Religion"

"I believe religion should play a role in reducing suicide. Won-Buddhism intends to fulfill that role."

On the 12th, at a press conference held at Won-Buddhism Wonnam Church in Jongno-gu, Seoul, ahead of the '108th Anniversary of the Great Enlightenment and Founding Day,' Na Sang-ho, the head of the Church Administration Office, emphasized the religious role of valuing life. He said, "Among OECD countries, South Korea's suicide rate is among the highest. About 30 people take their own lives every day," and added, "Won-Buddhism will strive to prevent suicide for everyone from young students to the elderly."

Nasangho, the head of the Won-Buddhism Correction Office, is answering reporters' questions.
[Photo by Won-Buddhism]

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This strengthened suicide prevention policy is part of the ongoing discussion about the '4th Generation' (4dae). The 1st Generation is a 36-year long-term plan, which consists of three 12-year mid-term plans called 'Hoe' (회). The 36-year long-term plan is fulfilled through these three 12-year mid-term plans. This year marks the 108th anniversary of the founding of Won-Buddhism, a time to complete the 3rd Generation and prepare for the 4th Generation.

Na explained that the core of the 4th Generation plan is 'reincarnation.' It envisions 'RE100 Won-Buddhism,' focusing on the use of renewable energy for the environment and vulnerable life forms. Currently, out of 520 churches nationwide, about 100 use solar power, and the goal is to gradually reach 100% usage. At the church in Yeonggwang, Jeollanam-do, the renewable energy usage rate is already 98%, and Na expects to achieve 100% within this year.

Fostering future generations is also one of the key plans of the 4th Generation. Na said, "The so-called MZ and Alpha generations will ultimately lead the future of Won-Buddhism," and added, "We are designing the 4th Generation plan reflecting their opinions." Related measures include allowing non-face-to-face worship, permitting clergy marriage, and appointing female senior clergy. Regarding sexual minorities, he said, "There is no issue for believers, but clergy are not yet allowed; there are supportive opinions internally, so discussions are ongoing."

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On the same day, the Wonnam Church, completed last October, was also unveiled to the media. Wonnam Church is built using a special pillar-less construction method, highlighting its curved beauty. Inside, there is a Hanok-style Dharma Hall called 'Inhyewon' (仁慧苑), named by taking 'In' from Hong In-cheon, the Won-Buddhism Dharma name of Hong Jin-gi, former Minister of Justice and father-in-law of the late Lee Kun-hee, former Samsung Group chairman (father of Hong Ra-hee), and 'Hye' from Kim Hye-seong, the Dharma name of Kim Yoon-nam, mother of Hong Ra-hee. According to Won-Buddhism, more than half of the construction costs of Wonnam Church were borne by Hong Ra-hee's side.

The Won-Buddhism Great Enlightenment and Founding Day (Daegak Gaegyojeol) will be held on the 28th with Dharma services, Dharma recitation contests, music festivals, and more. Daegak Gaegyojeol commemorates April 28, 1916, when the founder of Won-Buddhism, So Taesan Park Jung-bin (1891?1943), attained enlightenment. Unlike other religions, Won-Buddhism marks the founding day not by the founder's birthday but by the day he attained enlightenment. This year's celebration slogan is 'Together, All Together.'

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