The Jogye Order’s Social Welfare Foundation is expanding its unmarried men and women meeting program “I’m Going to the Temple Stay” to include foreigners this year. As part of the foundation’s efforts to celebrate its 30th anniversary, it announced the expansion plans during a press conference at the Dharma Propagation Center in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
The foundation’s representative director, Myojang, shared the plans for the anniversary, which include continuing and enhancing the popular “I’m Going to the Temple Stay” program. This program, designed to address low birthrates by fostering a healthy family culture, merges ‘meetings’ with ‘temple stays’ to facilitate natural relationships among participants. Last year, it saw significant interest with 3,400 applicants, resulting in 33 successful pairings and five ongoing relationships.
Myojang mentioned that the program now invites foreigners who are willing to settle in Korea, marry, and start families. To increase opportunities, the program’s frequency and duration are being extended, with some sessions moving from one-night to two-night stays.
Upcoming events for “I’m Going to the Temple Stay” include a session in April with Jogye Order’s general affairs director, Jin Woo, and another in July at Bongseon Temple in Namyangju, with various other temples across the country hosting in the fall.
In celebration of its 30th year, the foundation is organizing several events, including a memorial service in June and the publication of a 30-year history book by the end of the year. Additionally, they are launching new initiatives like the Buddhist Social Welfare Council and Academy, and expanding existing programs such as “Youth Meal,” which supports college students.
The foundation is also emphasizing meditation programs focused on healing and care as a suicide prevention measure. Myojang committed to providing guidance for peace of mind, particularly targeting middle and high school students to support their mental well-being.