Haedong Yonggung Temple is located in Gijang-gun, the northeast coastal corner of Busan. The temple was built in 1376 by the teacher known as Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty. It was originally known as Bomun Temple and was dedicated to Gwanseum-bosal, the Goddess of Compassion. It was destroyed during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–98) but was rebuilt in the 1930s, and renamed Haedong Yonggung Temple in 1974. 

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Overall, I have very mixed feelings about Headong Yonggungsa. If you're visiting Korea for the first time, or you're hosting foreign friends, I highly recommend making the trip. The temple itself has various facilities aimed specifically at pleasing tourists, such as a designated selfie sites in front of displays, coin tossing areas, and food stands. For a more experienced traveler, Headong Yonggungsa feels more like a temple brought to you by Disney.

 

Check out some of my personal photos below. Hover over each image for more information. Enjoy!