Buddhist Persecution in Joseon History (Pt 1 of 2)

Are You a Fan of Korean Historical Dramas?

As a loyal fan of Korean historical dramas, if the movie or series was inspired by or based on historical records, I often do the research to contrast and compare the factual accounts versus the fictional presentation. As a member of an online Q&A community, I was intrigued when someone asked a question about the Buddhist persecution in Joseon. I thought to myself: Buddhists were persecuted? (O.o) In “Six Flying Dragons”, one of the kings was a devout Buddhist. So? Persecution? When? How? Why? (???)

There are several historical K-dramas that incorporate the persecution of the Catholics in the plot or storyline. But in searching for a drama that referenced persecution of Buddhists, I could not find any. (O.o) While Korean dramas often explore spiritual and religious themes and contain Buddhist elements, the storylines involving references to Buddhism never mention anything about persecution.

REAL KOREAN HISTORY:

In the actual history of ancient Korea, Buddhists were indeed persecuted, particularly under rulers who favored Confucianism. Even so, there are key moments in history where acceptance of the Buddhist philosophy/religion gained traction and became accepted, in spite of resistance.

The Three Kingdoms Period (Goguryeo, Baekje, Silla)

During the period of the Three Kingdoms (Goguryeo, Baekje, Silla), Buddhism was introduced in the 4th–6th centuries and became the state religion. Even though in Silla there was some resistance that came from traditionalists, i.e., those who did not want to consider alternatives to Confucianism. However, a monk named Ichadon was martyred, and this moved the royals to support the believers or followers and legitimize Buddhism.

• SIDE NOTE: Confucianism “technically” did not have any martyrs. But there may have been a time in history when a certain ruler did not appreciate their influence. There is a “legend” that in 212 BCE, Emperor Qin Shi Huang buried 460 Confucian scholars ALIVE! Did it really happen? Historians are still debating. Meanwhile, the event, whether real or imaginary, is viewed as a symbol of Confucian resistance to despotism. But this particular emperor is the one who unified China (Qin dynasty), built the Great Wall, and is guarded by the Terracotta Army. Eh! Nobody’s perfect. Apparently, some historians say he was a harsh ruler who persecuted the Confucian scholars and burned their books. (I say) Even if he did martyr the scholars, he likely made sure that the act was not recorded in the records. He did good stuff! Why tarnish his image and legacy? History is written by the one in charge. (REF: britannica.com › biography › Qin-Shi-Huang)

BACK TO THE BUDDHIST PERSECUTION …

Goryeo Dynasty

During the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392), Buddhism was the state ideology and flourished. What often happens when a religion is authorized as “legal” and flourishes, pillars of the faith (the ones in leadership roles) become greedy and corrupted because they know they have the people in power backing them up! It’s the reason most people say church and state should be separated. By the end of the dynasty, Neo-Confucian scholars began criticizing Buddhists for their corruption and excess. Confucius never taught people to be greedy and corrupt. (Neither did the Buddha, but that’s not the point.)

It seems the royals agreed, and they began restricting the monks’ privileges. The Neo-Confucianists pushed further and harder. Eventually, Confucianism replaced Buddhism as the dominant ideology (but not as a theology. Just as a way of learning how to live together and get along. For plain old peaceful everyday living. Anything else BEYOND the control of ordinary humans will be decided by “the heavens”. Learning how to live together peacefully is NOT beyond our control!) BUT! It must be underscored that they didn’t “persecute” the Buddhists during the Goryeo Dynasty.

Joseon Dynasty

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), the Buddhists were persecuted, and it was intense! Neo-Confucianism was ENFORCED as the state ideology. Buddhism was deemed socially harmful and alien. Monks no longer had an official status, and they were not even allowed to enter cities. Instead, the monks lived in remote mountain temples (which, if you ask me, wasn’t all that bad. Have you seen some of those temples?)  These secluded monasteries were for celibate monks where they focused on study and meditation (and sometimes for hiding people – Buddhist or non-Buddhist – who fled there for safety or solitude).

Buddhists were also forced into military service. Military? That had to be kind of hard since Buddhist beliefs are all about being peaceful, but not that hard because their martial art skills are exemplary! It turns out martial arts is a form of spiritual and physical discipline that enhances mental focus, self-control, and mindfulness, thus aligning perfectly with Buddhist principles. (And … if they have to kick butt, they can and they will! Using minimal force, trying their best to be non-violent and compassionate.) Nevertheless, Buddhism survived under Confucian dominance, suppression (or oppression), or “persecution” because some royals (particularly queens) supported the Buddhist monks.

Buddhism in Korea in the 20th Century and Beyond

Final notes about what happened to Buddhism in the 20th century and beyond: During Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945), Korean Buddhism faced internal strife due to Japanese influence, including the controversial introduction of married priests. What? No more celibate monasticism?? After Korea’s liberation from the Japanese in 1945, some (SOME, not ALL) reverted back to celibacy, while others allowed married priests, but nuns had to remain celibate. (That’s JIVE!) Modern Korean Buddhism struggles with trying to maintain its “authenticity”. It’s difficult to reconcile its nationalistic roots or national identity, shamanistic influences imposed by Japanese practices, the division between celibate and married clergy, and, quite frankly, simply adapting to modernization. Today, they’re not being persecuted. They are just trying to adapt.

BY CONTRAST, in North Korea, Buddhism was nearly eradicated under state atheism policies in the 1960s–70s. (You have to say “nearly” because some people will practice their beliefs in secret, no matter what the government says. So if there are still Buddhists in North Korea, they and maybe some sympathizers are probably the only ones who know they exist!)

♦

LINKS OF INTEREST:

The Book of Fish ~ Confucianism Versus Catholicism

Buddhism in Ancient Korea – World History Encyclopedia

HISTORY OF BUDDHISM IN KOREA | Facts and Details