Grand Dharma Assembly of 10,000 People in Commemoration of the 160th Birth Anniversary of Master Yongseong
June 13, 2024
Hello! Today, a Grand Dharma Assembly of 10,000 people for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity is to be held in commemoration of the 160th birth anniversary of Master Baek Yongseong. Master Yongseong was a Korean independence activist and one of 33 signatories of the Declaration of the Independence of Korea, representing the Buddhist community.
Early in the morning, more than 10,000 people from various regions of Korea and overseas headed for Jungnimjeongsa Buddhist Temple in Jangsu.
Ven. Pomnyun Sunim began his day with the Yebul ceremony in the Main Hall of Jungnimjeongsa at 4 a.m. A prayer—initiated in 1999, following Master Yongseong’s teachings on the prosperity of the Daehan Jeongguk (Righteous Nation of the Great Han) for 800 years—has continued for 25 years. Today it will culminate with a gathering of 10,000 people. Sunim performed each prostration with utmost care.
After the Yebul ceremony, volunteers, working in teams, began preparations for the event. In the kitchen, volunteers started preparing lunch for the guests. Meanwhile, at the event venue, other volunteers placed an event leaflet and paper hat on each chair. The final rehearsal took place on the stage, while volunteers in the parking lot prepared to welcome 250 buses.
As dawn broke, buses from all over the country started to arrive, one after another, at 7 a.m. A total of 250 buses, assigned to different drop-off points by region, unloaded passengers at staggered times. Thanks to the meticulous preparations, 10,000 participants smoothly made their way to the event venue, Mulbit Park, without incident.
Sunim welcomed esteemed guests in front of the temple’s living quarters, warmly greeting senior social leaders, religious leaders, politicians, civic activists, and media and cultural artists.
“Thank you for coming all the way down here.”
Many National Assembly members of one political party who had promised to attend were suddenly unable to do so due to an emergency general meeting. However, a few managed to attend, despite the difficulties.
Sunim guided the guests to greet Master Bulsim Domun one by one in the order of their arrival.
“He is my teacher. How about greeting him with a prostration?”
The master expressed gratitude to each of the guests.
“Namo tassa bhagavato arahato samma sambuddhassa. I deeply respect, take refuge in, and bow before the Buddha, who liberated himself from afflictions and attained enlightenment through his own efforts. I apologize that I’m unable to stand because of pain in my legs. Thank you very much for coming.”
A member of National Assembly, Chung Dong-young, greeted the master and said,
“It’s truly a miracle for 10,000 people to gather here in this remote mountain village in Jeolla-do. Congratulations, Master.”
As the time arrived for the event to begin, greetings were concluded, and all guests moved to the event venue. When the guests appeared in front of the stage, 10,000 participants welcomed them with loud applause and cheers.
Before the main ceremony, a grand drum performance announced the beginning of the Grand Dharma Assembly for Peace on the Korean Peninsula, National Unity, and Sustainable Development of Our Nation to Heaven, Earth, and 10,000 participants.
Following the drum performance, the Grand Dharma Assembly commenced with an announcement by emcee Kim Byeong-jo. After taking refuge in the Three Jewels, Master Domun entered the stage in a wheelchair as a video introducing him played.
Amid the cheers and applause of the 10,000-strong crowd, the master ignited the flame of peace, signaling the commencement of the Grand Dharma Assembly.
The wish for peace that Jungto Society members have been practicing domestically and internationally over the past month have ignited into a burning flame.
After saluting the national flag, singing the national anthem, and observing a moment of silence for fallen patriots, everyone took their seats. First, a video was shown highlighting the life and legacy of independence activist Master Baek Yongseong.
After the video, Sunim took to the stage to offer his welcoming remarks.
“Today marks the 160th anniversary of the birth of independence activist Master Baek Yongseong. In commemoration of this day, we have organized this Grand Dharma Assembly, gathering 10,000 people to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula, national unity, and sustainable development of our nation. First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all participants who have joined us in this assembly.
“Master Yongseong was born in the 1860s, a tumultuous period in our country’s history, when peasant uprisings took place in three provinces. He was born in 1864, the same year that Su-un Choe Je-u, the founder of Donghak, was martyred. At the age of 14, Master Yongseong was ordained under the guidance of Master Hyewol at Deongmilam Temple in Namwon Gyoryong Fortress. He emerged not only as a Buddhist practitioner but also as a pioneer for the new era. Master Hyewol was a contemporary of Su-un Choe Je-u, and together they discussed the establishment of a nation ruled by the people.
One who 100 years ago dreamed of a new nation ruled by the people
“In his youth, Master Yongseong dedicated himself to vigorous practice for his own enlightenment. When the Eulsa Treaty of 1905 signaled the decline of our nation, he traveled to China. There, he prepared financial support in anticipation of the establishment of a provisional government. After the nation was taken over by Japan in 1910, he traveled across the country, appealing to former high-ranking officials to reclaim the lost nation. However, when all of them refused, saying it was not the right time, Master Yongseong concluded that the new nation must be one where the people are the true rulers.
“Thus, Master Yongseong joined hands with Son Byeong-hui, the leader of Cheondogyo, becoming a key figure behind the March 1st Movement. The spirit of the March 1st Movement extended beyond merely reclaiming the lost nation. Master Yongseong led this spirit toward the establishment of the Republic of Korea. Our country’s original name was Han(韓), which split into the three Hans: Mahan, Jinhan, and Byeonhan. The idea of unifying these three Hans into one is the spirit of the unification of three Hans. This unified Han was called Daehan(Great Han), giving our country its name, Daehan. Adopting the name Daehan from the Daehan Empire(Korean Empire) signified reclaiming the lost nation. However, Master Yongseong envisioned the new nation as one where the people, not the king, were the rulers—a republic. This is why the provisional government’s name in Shanghai became Daehan Minguk(the Republic of Korea). Master Yongseong also proposed the use of the Taegeukgi(the taegeuk flag) during the March 1st Movement. At that time, the Japanese Empire had banned the Taegeukgi, so using it during the movement was itself an act of resistance. Looking at history, we can see that the name “Republic of Korea” and the national flag, the Taegeukgi, are derived from Master Yongseong’s ideas and actions. It is truly unfortunate that the people of Korea do not know this history.
One who talked about hope when everyone was in despair
“Master Yongseong dedicated his life to the movement to reform Buddhism and to the independence movements to reclaim this country, but the organizations he founded were completely destroyed by Japan’s intense suppression in 1939. While ordinary people would have succumbed to despair, he gave hope to his colleagues, predicting: ‘In 60 years, not only will Korea be independent, it will become a prosperous nation. And 25 years after that, 800 years of prosperity for Korea will begin to unfold.’ Today is the day that Master Yongseong predicted.
“Today, we gather here not only to uphold the teachings that Master Yongseong left behind but to move beyond commemorating the past and instead to embody the spirit of our ancestors in overcoming the challenges facing our country today. Modern-day South Korea has become an economic powerhouse beyond what we imagined in the past, achieving democracy and creating a vibrant culture, including Hallyu. Yet, simultaneously, amid rapidly evolving global geopolitics, the probability of renewed conflict on the Korean Peninsula rises daily, and everything that we have built is at risk of collapsing due to war. Meanwhile, domestic politics often portray as adversaries those from different parties or with differing ideologies. This approach will not help us overcome our national crisis. Master Yongseong and countless patriots would have wanted us to initiate a civic movement that would unify people’s opinions by acknowledging, understanding, and respecting each other’s differences, thus enabling South Korea, whose growth engine is depleting, to achieve sustainable development once again.
An occasion to express the wishes of 10,000 people
“Despite the scorching sun, we have gathered here today with heartfelt determination to express our aspirations. We have prepared this event in the profound hope that if there is a heaven, it will be moved, and if our ancestors hear us, they will bestow their blessings upon us. Once again, I sincerely thank all the distinguished guests and the members of Jungto Society who have joined us today.”
Afterward, Sunim introduced the distinguished guests. First, he introduced religious leaders and senior social leaders.
Sunim introduced disciples of Master Bulsim Domun, including Ven. Hwangsan Heychong, former head of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, Ven. Dobeop, chief monk of Silsangsa Temple, Ven. Jihong, chief monk of Geumgangjeongsa Temple and other eminent monks. He also introduced notable religious leaders such as Park Kyungjo of the Anglican Church Diocese, Reverend Park Jonghwa, and Father Kim Hongjin, along with distinguished academics and cultural figures, such as Choi Sangyong, Honorary Professor at Korea University, Yoo Keun, Endowed Chair Professor at Far East University, writer Kim Hongshin, and screenwriter Lee Geumrim. Each introduction was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
“Many members of the National Assembly had promised to attend today. However, an emergency general meeting of one of the parties was convened today and so many lawmakers were unable to be here. Those who managed to attend despite this are truly remarkable and I am sincerely grateful to all of you.”
Sunim introduced each of the National Assembly members who kept their promises despite the challenging circumstances, and the audience greeted them with enthusiastic applause.
Newly elected National Assembly members, including Chung Dongyoung, Joo Hoyoung, Yeom Taeyoung, Park Huiseung, Kim Jongmin, and Min Byungdu, along with former National Assembly members, including Chung Sekyun, Kim Deokryong, Kim Sungkon, Do Jonghwan, Kim Dukwan, Lee Kwangjae, Park Yongjin, and Choi Inho, stood and waved in greeting to the audience.
Many prominent leaders from various sectors of South Korea gathered for this event. A few of them took to the stage to give congratulatory speeches.
First, the Governor of Jeollabuk-do, who was scheduled to deliver the welcoming address today, had to cancel unexpectedly due to the earthquake in Buan yesterday. In his place, the Vice Governor read the congratulatory speech on his behalf.
Next, representing the religious community, former Cheondogyo leader Park Namsu delivered a congratulatory speech.
“The Donghak Cheondogyo, to which I belong, shares a deep relationship with Master Yongseong in many ways. When Master Yongseong represented the Buddhist community during the March 1st Movement in 1919, Cheondogyo leader Son Byeong-hui, who inherited the spiritual lineage of Su-un, was at the center of the movement. In the late 19th century, during a time of national crisis, Su-un Choe Je-u and Hyewol Sunim joined hands, and later, in the independence movement, Son Byeong-hui and Master Yongseong united. Master Yongseong and Cheondogyo continued this relationship in their joint efforts to end the era of Previous Heaven and to begin the new era of Later Heaven. Standing here with Ven. Domun and Ven. Pomnyun, continuing this relationship, fills me with deep emotion. Nowadays, Master Yongseong is more widely known, and more Koreans are aware of his achievements. This is the result of the tireless efforts of his followers. I send my heartfelt support and appreciation for your dedication and hard work.”
Next, representing the politicians and social leaders, former Speaker of the National Assembly Chung Sekyun delivered a congratulatory message.
“Holding today’s Dharma assembly here in Jangsu, my hometown, to honor Master Yongseong’s noble aspirations and reflect on the teachings of the Buddha, fills me with profound emotion. Inter-Korean relations are deteriorating rapidly. If both sides do not engage in appropriate situation management, we face the prospect of prolonged and routine military standoffs. We must remember the lesson that even a bad peace is better than war, and work toward designing a future-oriented relationship between the North and the South. Of course, I believe in the resilience of our people. Despite the current uncertainty and frustration, I am confident that, just as our history has shown, we can overcome and triumph over an uncertain future to move toward a brighter one. Like a river that flows relentlessly toward the sea, never abandoning its course, I trust that we all will join in the steps toward historical progress. I believe that today’s gathering is a moment for unifying our hearts and minds through communication and unity.”
Lastly, Joo Hoyoung, a member of the National Assembly and chairperson of Jeonggakhoe, an association of Buddhist National Assembly members, delivered a congratulatory speech.
“I am truly grateful to hear that Master Yongseong blessed our nation’s future for the next 800 years and prophesied the prosperity of our nation. However, domestic and international circumstances surrounding the Korean Peninsula and our internal issues demand immediate attention and cannot be left as they are. War clouds loom over many countries worldwide, and according to experts, the Korean Peninsula is also facing an increasingly dangerous period. War destroys everything and must never be allowed to happen. I hope that today’s gathering serves as an impetus to preserve peace on the Korean Peninsula at all costs, and to unite us as one people living in this era, regardless of any challenges we may face. There are many more words I could share, but considering you have endured the scorching sun for so long, I will conclude briefly.”
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court also sent a congratulatory message, which was read before the conclusion of congratulatory remarks.
Next, Ven. Bulsom Domun delivered a Dharma talk. Supported by assistants due to discomfort in his legs, he stepped onto the stage and commenced the Dharma talk by striking his Dharma staff three times.
“Commit no evil dees. Practice good deeds with devotion. Purify your mind naturally. This is the teaching of all buddhas.
In preparation for the 800 years of prosperity for our nation, the Dharma message I wish to share with you at this grand assembly of 10,000 virtuous ones pertains to these three principles, which are the foundation of all of the Buddha’s teachings:
Commit no evil deeds! Practice good deeds with devotion! Purify your mind naturally, as effortlessly as breathing!
“When the Buddha said, ‘Do not do this,’ agreeing ‘Yes, I will not do it,’ is the precept of moral restraint. When the Buddha said, ‘You must do this,’ agreeding ‘Yes, I will do it,’ and putting it into practice is the precept of virtuous conduct. Living not just for oneself, but for both oneself and others, is the precept of benefiting living beings. Today, I present these three pure precepts to the 10,000 virtuous ones gathered here.
“Having received the three pure precepts, I will now bestow on you an honorific title. Among the 10,000 names of the Buddha, there is the Enlightened One named Hui Deng Ming (慧燈明) Tathagatha. I bestow upon you the honorific title of Hui Deng Ming Tathagatha, taken from the Buddha’s name. Please receive it!”
“We receive it.”
“With the merit of receiving the three pure precepts, the honorific title of Hui Deng Ming, and reciting and spreading the three pure precepts at the assembly of 10,000 virtuous ones praying for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity, may our nation achieve prosperity for 800 years. With this merit, may us and all beings be born in the Pure Land, meet Amitabha Buddha, hear the subtle Dharma, realize the truth of non-arising, and attain buddhahood.”
Master Domun concluded the Dharma talk within 10 minutes. Amid enthusiastic applause, he stepped down from the stage. The participants then watched a video that encapsulated the future vision of the June 13 Dharma assembly and the long-held wishes of the Korean people.
Ten thousand people’s declaration of peace
Amid the deeply stirring and passionate emotions, distinguished guests took to the stage and read the “Ten Thousand People’s Declaration of Peace.”
As of 2024, Korea stands on the brink of war
“The Chairman of North Korea, Kim Jong-un, has abandoned the unification goal and the concept of same ethnicity and designated South Korea as its principal enemy. In response, our military has taken a firm stance, vowing to retaliate ‘immediately, forcefully, and to the end.’ Leaflets criticizing the North Korean regime were flown into the North, while the North retaliated by sending balloons filled with waste into the South. The South resumed loudspeaker broadcasts directed at the North, and North Korea threatened new retaliatory measures, leading to a tense standoff. According to statements from both sides, the Korean Peninsula is already in a quasi-war state. If war breaks out again, the unprecedented achievements of South Korea, such as the Miracle on the Han River and the miracle of democratization, could be reduced to ashes in an instant.
Geopolitical dynamics in Northeast Asia are heightening the possibility of war
“The power struggle between the superpowers, the United States and China, is expanding throughout East Asia. Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is accelerating the proliferation of North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction, and the corresponding deterrence strategy of military cooperation among South Korea, the United States, and Japan is heightening military tensions in the entire region. As we have already seen in the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel’s bombing of the Gaza Strip, the majority of the victims are civilians, including women and children. If war breaks out again on the Korean Peninsula, the devastation will be incomparable. There is no such thing as a good war or a just war. We must prevent war for the sake of us all.
A drastic shift in ideas is needed for peace on the Korean Peninsula
“Despite sanctions against North Korea, the country is fully committed to improving both the quantity and quality of its nuclear weapons. North Korea has already deployed tactical nuclear units in the field and launched a tactical nuclear attack submarine. Once North Korea completes its development of long-range missiles, not only the Korean Peninsula but the entire world will face a new nuclear proliferation threat. The best solution for peace for us and for the world is to take extraordinary measures to quickly freeze North Korea’s nuclear weapons and to normalize North Korea-U.S. relations.
It’s time for all Koreans to stand unified and advocate for peace on the Korean Peninsula
“Today marks the 160th anniversary of the birth of Master Baek Yongseong, a key figure among the 33 signatories of the March 1st Independence Declaration and a representative of the Buddhist community who dedicated his efforts to financially supporting the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea and training independence activists. The essence of the March 1st spirit is an independent nation, ‘Daehan,’ and a country where the people are the rulers, ‘Minguk.’
“Even during the 1930s, when our independence forces were nearly annihilated due to brutal oppression by Japanese imperialists, Master Baek Yongseong and numerous independence activists never gave up on the dream of Korean independence. Thanks to their unwavering commitment, today’s Republic of Korea enjoys prosperity. Today, we inherit that dream. Our collective actions, driven by the refusal to abandon this dream, will be powerful steps toward shaping the future and becoming part of history. For peace and unification on the Korean Peninsula, national unity, and sustainable development of our nation, we, the people, unite our hearts and minds to declare our position as follows.
“First, we sincerely appeal to the government of the Republic of Korea to do the following:
Insisting solely on ‘peace through strength’ will only heighten the risk of war. We must also pursue ‘peace through dialogue.’ The Korean government should revive the spirit of previous inter-Korean agreements and immediately resume South-North dialogue to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula. Through a ‘Presidential Special Declaration on North Korea’ and the dispatch of a special envoy to North Korea, we must improve inter-Korean relations and North Korea-U.S. dialogue. We, the peace-loving people of the Republic of Korea, will join forces with the government to achieve this.
“First, we strongly urge the North Korean government to do the following:
Even a localized preemptive strike could immediately escalate into a full-scale war, resulting in irreversible tragedy. Peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula must be achieved through dialogue and cooperation, not nuclear weapons. We urge you to freeze your nuclear program as soon as possible and come to the table for dialogue to improve inter-Korean and North Korea-U.S. relations. We call on you to take the lead in resolving conflicts peacefully.
“First, we appeal for unity and cooperation in South Korea’s political arena:
The people of South Korea are not enemies, even if they belong to different political parties or hold different ideologies. We must achieve national unity through democratic principles that respect and understand differing opinions. Only then can we safeguard peace on the Korean Peninsula. The political leadership responsible for the lives and security of the people must transcend party lines and ideologies to engage in proactive dialogue and cooperation with civil society. We strongly urge the opposition, regardless of political gains or losses, to prioritize responsibility for peace on the Korean Peninsula and work closely with the government. Furthermore, a bipartisan resolution opposing war on the Korean Peninsula must be passed. South Korea should express a strong determination for peace to North Korea, the United States, China, Russia, and the United Nations.
“First, we appeal to the U.S. government and Congress for a pragmatic policy shift :
Enhancing trilateral military cooperation between South Korea, the United States, and Japan is a security defense strategy that cannot prevent the proliferation of North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction. North Korea effectively possesses nuclear weapons and has become a highly dangerous state capable of spreading nuclear technology globally at any time. To prevent the proliferation of North Korean nuclear weapons, we urge simultaneous efforts to freeze North Korea’s nuclear activities and pursue the normalization of North Korea-U.S. relations, aiming for a fundamental resolution of the Korean Peninsula issue.
“First, we earnestly appeal to the peace-loving South Koreans with both hands held together, asking for the following:
It took a staggering 70 years for South Korea to achieve peace and prosperity after the tragedies of war. The fruits of 70 years, built with blood, tears, and sweat, can crumble in an instant due to war. The spirit of the Donghak Revolution against foreign forces, the March 1st Independence Movement against Japanese colonial rule, the industrialization spirit that led to the Miracle on the Han River, and the spirit of democratic resistance against military dictatorship are sources of pride for all Koreans today. Now, we must come together and raise our voices for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity.
“And let us collectively convey our earnest desire for peace to the political arena, allies, neighboring countries, and global citizens. Our destiny must be forged with our own strength. We appeal for the nationwide dissemination of ‘Actions for Peace on the Korean Peninsula.’ We, who have gathered here today, must create another chapter in our history for our ancestors and our children.
“Today, June 13th, also marks the day of the first inter-Korean summit since the division. Let our fervent aspirations and patriotism for peace on the Korean Peninsula, national unity, and sustainable development of our nation reach the skies and be realized without fail.”
June 13, 2024
Ten thousand participants of the Grand Dharma Assembly for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity
Sunim and social and political leaders exchanged opinions several times before the 10,000 People’s Declaration of Peace was crafted. To ensure the realization of this peace declaration, everyone expressed their support with enthusiastic applause.
The Resolution of 10,000 People
Next, “The Resolution of 10,000 People for Peace and Unity” was recited. The President of Jungto Society, the Head of Jungto International, the Head of the Special Youth Division, and the Head of the Happiness Movement Headquarters came forward and read aloud each line with a resounding voice.
“Today, June 13, 2024, we, the 10,000 people, inheriting the nonviolent spirit of the March 1st Independence Movement, upholding the constitutional values of the Republic of Korea, respecting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, hereby declare our resolution as we embark on the movement for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity as follows:
“First, we, the 10,000 people, will strive to preserve peace on the Korean Peninsula so that war never breaks out again.
“First, we, the 10,000 people, will achieve national unity by respecting each individual’s opinions, acknowledging and understanding our differences.
“First, we, the 10,000 people, will inherit the miracle of industrialization and democratization over the past 70 years to foster the continuous development of the Republic of Korea.
“Based on the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, we, the proud Korean people with a profound history and tradition, firmly pledge to secure the safety, freedom, and happiness of ourselves and our descendants forever by strengthening national unity through justice, compassion, and love for our compatriots, rooted in the mission of democratic reform and peaceful reunification of our homeland, improving equity in the lives of our citizens domestically, and contributing to enduring global peace and the common prosperity of humanity internationally.”
13 June 2024
Ten thousand people who wish for peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity
Ven. Pomnyun Sunim, and each representative of the 10,000 people received enthusiastic applause. Subsequently, everyone cheered to proclaim their firm determination and resolution to the world.
“Hurray!”
To express our commitment to uphold the resolution of 10,000 people, the ‘chain-breaking’ and ‘igniting the flame of unity’ ceremonies were held.
Thirty-three distinguished guests took the stage. Thirty-three people were designated to perform the ceremony to symbolize the energy of 33 heavens in Buddhism, just as 33 people signed the Declaration of Independence 105 years ago under the proposal of Master Yongseong. While 33 representatives holding the chain symbolizing ordeal of this era in their hands, the emcee exclaimed,
“One, two, three, cut!”
The chains of national division, ideological conflict, political strife between the ruling and opposition parties, inter-Korean conflict, and the law of the jungle have all been broken.
Continuing with the spirit of hope, a ceremony to ignite the flame of national unity was held. Nine representatives from various religious communities came forward to light the candles on stage.
As they ignited the flame of unity, the religious representatives expressed hope for a swift end to the brutal wars in Ukraine and Palestine, and their commitment to peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity for the whole world to see.
“Unity!”
As the emcee’s call was met with the lighting of the flame, a big round of applause erupted. We hope that the light of peace and unity will spread from the Korean Peninsula to all corners of the world.
Just as Master Yongseong took the forefront of the independence movement during the Japanese occupation, the collective action of 10,000 people to lift South Korea out of the quagmire of the threats of war and division is now ready. Today’s flame, starting from Master Yongseong’s birthplace at Jungnimjeongsa, will become a symbol of hope, spreading across the country and the world, a wish for peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula.
After the conclusion of the first half of the ceremony, emcee Kim Byeongjo left the stage, and the second part began with a performance by the mixed quartet Fiancé, who beautifully sang the songs “Teo(This Land)” and “My Country, My People.”
The second part was led by talk-show host Kim Jedong.
“We will begin the second part of the event with the introduction of the distinguished guests. Please quietly ask the name of the person next to you. When I say I will introduce today’s distinguished guests, please shout out the name of the person next to you loudly. Now, let’s introduce today’s distinguished guests!”
Everyone loudly called out the name of the person next to them.
“This time, when I say I will introduce today’s VVIP, please shout out your own name loudly! Let’s introduce today’s VVIP!”
With the unscripted introduction of distinguished guests, the second part began energetically. First, a unique performance unfolded. As the music “Jilpung Gado (Stormy Road)” started, they passionately showcased the card section with dynamic movements.
In the footage captured by the overhead drone, the words “Peace and Unity”, “Daehan Jeongguk,” and “800 Years Toward the Future” appeared.
It was a touching moment as everyone’s hearts became one. We all shouted loudly together, earnestly hoping that all these hearts coming together can achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity.
“Let’s make it! Toward the future! Eight hundred years! Let’s make it! Republic of Korea! Peace and unity!”
Ten thousand people pledged to manifest peace and unity.
Finally, a peace march marked the grand finale of the event. A procession of 40 flag-bearers lined up in front of the stage. The flags encapsulated the historical epochs of our country with “a profound history and tradition,” as mentioned in the preamble of the Constitution, along with the future vision of a “Unified Korea.” Each flag bearing the name of each nation beginning with “Han-nara” and “Baedal-nara” to “Republic of Korea” and “Daehan Jeongguk(Righteous Nation of the Great Han)” marched first, and distinguished guests participated in the peace march.
On the screen, scenes from the “Pre-Peace Actions” conducted by the members of Jungto Society from late April to late May, both domestically and internationally, were showcased. As the flag-bearers reached the endpoint and turned toward the stage, a drone ascended into the sky.
The drone bore aloft a large banner exhorting two teachings of Master Yongseong: “Don’t become a satellite state of a powerful nation, but become an autonomous nation,” and “Become the ruler of the Righteous Nation of the Great Han and lead world peace.” The heartfelt wishes of the people were carried high into the sky.
The proceedings concluded, the guests quietly exited, while the rest of the participants continued with the chorus of peace. For this Grand Dharma Assembly, the Jungto Society Choir assembled, with Professor Kim Hong-tae from Kyungdong Presbyterian Church serving as conductor. Professor Kim generously volunteered his talent to conduct the choir for this occasion.
Together, we adorned the finale of the Assembly by singing “Our Wish is Unification” and “Bohyunhaengwon.”
Under the scorching heat, it was an occasion when our bodies and hearts were also warmed by the prospect of peace on the Korean Peninsula and national unity.
The participants moved to designated locations by region and ate packed lunches that they had brought from home.
The guests moved to the front courtyard of Jungnimjeongsa and ate lunch there. Sunim had a meal of bibimbap together with former Speaker of the National Assembly Chung Sekyun.
After the meal, Sunim walked around the tables where the guests were seated and expressed his gratitude.
“The weather is so hot, it must have been really tough for you. We haven’t organized such a big event for five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so there were many shortcomings. Please understand.”
Sunim presented a commemorative gift to each of the guests.
To ensure the safety of the event attended by 10,000 people, Jangsu County Office, the police, the fire service, and local administrative offices also provided assistance. Sunim expressed gratitude to the public officials, police officers, and firefighters who were on duty.
After finishing their meal, the guests exchanged greetings before moving to the parking lot in time for the bus departures. Sunim personally went to the parking lot, boarded the bus with the guests who traveled from afar, and expressed his gratitude once again.
“Thank you so much for coming all this way. I must say goodbye to the 10,000 participants as well, so I’ll bid you farewell here. Please travel safely back home.”
“Thank you for your hard work.”
The June 13 Grand Dharma Assembly, to which so many people had devoted so much effort, has finally come to an end. Sunim walked among participants who were eating their packed lunches, expressing gratitude. After circling the venue, bowing in acknowledgment, he took the microphone and thanked them once again.
“Great job, everyone. Is there anyone who has fallen ill from the heat?”
“No!”
“Once again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended under this scorching sun. Today, our collective wishes will surely move the heavens and bring about positive outcomes. As you return to your homes, please take care and travel safely. Thank you.”
After returning to the living quarters, Sunim went to see Master Domun. The master had been resting after spending a long time under the scorching sun.
“Thanks to your guidance, we successfully concluded the event.”
The master expressed a sense of regret.
“Thank you for organizing such a grand event. As a teacher, I should pass down a legacy to my disciples, but I always find myself indebted.”
Then, Sunim replied,
“Don’t say that. You said we should inherit the Dharma, not wealth. You have already passed down the Dharma to us. That’s enough.”
After expressing gratitude to the master, Kim Je-dong, who emceed today’s event, came to greet Sunim.
“You worked hard hosting the event on such a hot day.”
“What time did you depart from Seoul?”
“I left at one in the morning, so I arrived quickly because there wasn’t much traffic.”
“Thank you for extending your help whenever we need it.”
Sunim had a conversation with Kim Je-dong about the day’s events before leaving the living quarters.
The event-preparation committee and the sangha members started cleaning up the venue. Sunim asked Ven. Yusu Sunim to oversee the clean-up before getting into the car.
“Thank you everyone for your hard work!”
Sunim departed Jungnimjeongsa at 1 p.m. and traveled on the highway for two-and-a-half hours.
After arriving at Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center at 4 p.m., Sunim took a rest.
After the sun had set, Sunim proofread manuscripts, and took care of various tasks before going to bed.
Tomorrow, early in the morning, Sunim will go to Namsan in Gyeongju to deliver a Dharma talk at the opening ceremony for Jungto Society activists from overseas. In the afternoon, Sunim will have a Dharma Q&A for them at Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center.
