Busan is good

"A Summer Cultural Festival Twice as Big" — 2025 Busan International Buddhism Expo to Be Held

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Busan Metropolitan City (Mayor Park Heong-joon) announced that the 2025 Busan International Buddhism Expo (hereinafter referred to as the “Expo”) will be held from August 7 to 10 under the theme of “Buddhism Core,” offering a new lifestyle experience.

The term "Buddhism Core" refers to the projection of Buddhism’s philosophical essence and lifestyle into everyday elements such as fashion, space, and goods. It aims to go beyond conventional religious content to propose a new type of lifestyle trend.

Jointly hosted by BBS Busan Buddhist Broadcasting and the Buddhist Newspaper, the event is expected to draw attention with its charming Buddhist-themed goods and a diverse array of unique Buddhist brands.

The Expo was first held in 2024 under the theme of “Fun Buddhism,” attracting more than 50,000 visitors.

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This year’s Expo (2025) features detailed programs including:
▲ “Meditation Culture & Craft Exhibition,” presenting various goods and services related to traditional and Buddhist culture
▲ “Meditation Art Exhibition,” showcasing artworks ranging from traditional Buddhist art to modern artistic interpretations of Seon and meditation
▲ “Balwoo Gongyang & Temple Food Exhibition,” highlighting distinctive temple cuisines from regional temples
▲ Seon Meditation Experience Zone

In particular, this year’s event is enriched with a variety of experiential programs that embody the essence of Buddhist culture, such as Seon meditation and singing bowl therapy, along with temple cuisine that is gaining popularity as a flavorful and healthy food option.

These programs are expected to offer visitors valuable moments to restore peace and happiness in daily life by alleviating modern-day depression, anxiety, and stress.

Additionally, the fact that Busan is home to many thousand-year-old temples and a major hub of Buddhist infrastructure in Korea gives added significance to the second consecutive hosting of the Expo in the city.

Following last year’s success, advance registration is once again expected to sell out. After the strong enthusiasm shown at the Seoul International Buddhism Expo in April, the Busan event has also doubled the size of its venue and the number of participating businesses, heightening expectations for a successful turnout.

Mayor Park Heong-joon stated, “Last year’s Busan International Buddhism Expo concluded as a successful event, and this year we plan to present even more diverse content.” He added, “I hope it will continue to grow and develop into a signature summer cultural festival of the region that transcends generations and religions.”

He also remarked, “Especially in the midst of exhausting and difficult daily lives, I hope this festival will deliver joy and healing through the deeply meaningful value of ‘mindfulness’ that Buddhism offers.”