The Gyalwang Drukpa

I arrived in Seoul a couple of days ago, in the middle of some very sad happenings that seem to be resulted from discrimination against Buddhism in South Korea. I was told that in historical Korea, Buddhism was the state religion. In the late 8th century and for following few hundred years, many beautiful temples and monastic institutions were developed with the help of so many enlightened masters and so many enlightened disciples, who carried the genuine spiritual message of the Buddha from one generation to the next one.

Despite the degeneration of spirituality in general, especially and sadly Buddhism, Koreans are still very blessed to be able to live in the presence of some very accomplished spiritual masters. I am also very fortunate in that sense that I am presently in the company of one of the very old abbots, who is considered to be one of the masters with the highest ranking in position and spiritual accomplishment in South Korea. I am sorry I am not so good in remembering names, but I have a photo with him who is standing in the centre among all of us.

This old master reminds me of our great Tibetan masters, who are really realised and who are really living Bodhisattvas. He talks a lot and he socializes a lot. He even came to my bedroom to check if everything was okay. Even though there was no chance for me or anyone to talk in front of him as he was very interested to share every of his knowledge with us, I could tell that he was very much living in the presence and in his own inner spaciousness. His inner quality really reminds me a lot of my own root guru, so I was so happy in his company, although I didn't have a chance to say anything. From the depth of my heart, I truly appreciate any meeting with such kind of genuine masters, which are very rare not only in South Korea, but everywhere. Unfortunately he is quite old now. I am praying constantly for his longevity and will always keep him in my heart.

I am hosted by the abbot of Kilsangsa Temple, Master Deokjo, who gladly gave me all the photos in this page. Kilsangsa was where I gave my first teaching this time. Master Deokjo really takes great care in looking after all of us. Despite his extremely busy schedule, he takes time off to accompany me all the way to the southern part where I am now. He showed me the magnificent pagoda and the wonderful job that he has been doing at Kilsangsa. I am especially proud of him to be able to do such a great job with such a wonderful temple in the heart of Seoul, next to the President's office.