South Korea designates four cultural treasures including rare Buddhist scripture

South Korea's Cultural Heritage Administration has designated four items as national treasures, including a rare version of the ‘Buljeongsim Darani-gyeong’ Buddhist scripture held by Seoul National University. This specific collection is unique because it contains both the Classical Chinese and the Korean-translated (Eonhae) versions in their original, intact form. The Chinese version was published in 1485 under the leadership of Queen Insu, while the Korean version utilized metal type created in 1455.

Other newly designated treasures include:

• A collection of seated Shakyamuni Buddha and 16 Arhat statues from Sangwonsa Temple in Pyeongchang, which includes historical artifacts that help date the pieces to the late 15th century. • The ‘Fifty-three Buddhas Painting’ from Songgwangsa Temple in Suncheon, a 1725 work by 26 painters that demonstrates the distinct artistic style of Uigyeom. • The Magoksa Temple bell in Gongju, cast in 1654 by the monk-artisan Boeun, which features detailed inscriptions regarding its casting process and donors.

The administration plans to collaborate with local governments and owners to ensure the systematic preservation and utilization of these cultural assets.