As Buddha’s Birthday approaches, Gimhae’s temples offer more than places of worship — they also preserve stories tied to the ancient Gaya kingdom and the legends surrounding King Suro, Queen Heo Hwang-ok, and the monk Jangyu Hwasang.

According to Korean historical records, Buddhism was officially introduced to Korea in 372 during the Goguryeo Kingdom. However, local Gaya legends suggest Buddhist influences may have arrived centuries earlier through the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok, the princess said to have traveled from the ancient Ayuta kingdom in India to marry King Suro in 48 A.D.

Legend says she arrived with her brother, Jangyu Hwasang, a prince-turned-monk who later played a major spiritual role in Gaya history. Many temples in Gimhae are linked to these stories, blending religion, folklore, and regional history.

Jangyusa, located on Bulmosan Mountain, is believed to have been founded by Jangyu Hwasang in 48 A.D. Behind the temple stands the Jangyu Hwasang Reliquary Pagoda, a provincial cultural heritage site tied to the Gaya era.

Eunhasa, on the western slopes of Sineosan Mountain, is also said to have been established by Jangyu Hwasang. Its main hall contains decorative twin-fish motifs, symbols often associated with Queen Heo Hwang-ok and her Indian origins.

Haeunsa, perched on Bunsan Mountain with views over eastern Gimhae and the Nakdong River plain, is tied to a legend that says it was built in gratitude to the Dragon King for protecting Queen Heo and Jangyu Hwasang during their voyage to Gaya. The temple houses portraits of King Suro and Queen Heo in a rare hall known as Daewangjeon.

Yeongguam, another temple associated with Jangyu Hwasang, is known for its connection to geomancy and meditation traditions, while Seongjoam is linked to King Geodeung, the second ruler of Gaya, who is said to have built it in honor of King Suro.

Moeunam carries legends of longing and remembrance, with stories connecting its origins to Queen Heo’s nostalgia for her homeland or to royal family members honoring their parents.

Heungbuam, located on Imhosan Mountain, is tied to a geomantic tale in which Jangyu Hwasang is said to have built the temple to calm the mountain’s fierce energy and protect the Gaya capital.

Together, these temples offer visitors a chance to explore Gimhae not only as a religious destination, but as a place where myth, history, and the legacy of the Gaya kingdom continue to shape the landscape.

Fleet Chinhae

USAG Daegu