Myungjin, a former chief monk of Seoul’s Bongeunsa Temple, passed away on October 22nd. The 76-year-old monk was found deceased off the coast of Jeju Island, near Hyeopjae Beach in Seogwipo City, around 9:38 AM. He was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead at 10:28 AM.
The Coast Guard is investigating the exact circumstances of the incident. Initial findings suggest that Myungjin may have been practicing freediving when the accident occurred. He was reportedly wearing a wetsuit and a diving mask at the time of his discovery. The investigation aims to determine the precise sequence of events leading to his death.
Life and Career of Monk Myungjin
Born in 1950 in Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province, Myungjin entered monastic life in 1969 at Baekryeonam Hermitage in Haeinsa Temple. He received dharma transmission from Master Tanseong in 1974. Throughout his career, Myungjin was a significant figure within the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.
Key Roles and Contributions
- He played a pivotal role in the reform of the Jogye Order’s central council in 1994.
- Served as a member of the Jogye Order’s Central Council.
- Held the position of Vice Chairman of the Jogye Order’s Central Council from 1998 to 2002.
- Served as the chief monk of Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, from 2006 to 2010.
Controversy and Reinstatement
Myungjin gained public attention in 2016 for his critical remarks about the Jogye Order’s management during an appearance on the TBS program “Kim Eo-jun’s News Factory.” This led to his expulsion from the order in April 2017.
However, Myungjin filed a lawsuit challenging the expulsion decision. Both the initial trial and the appeal ruled in his favor, declaring the expulsion invalid. In early 2023, an agreement was reached between the Jogye Order and Myungjin, stipulating that neither party would pursue further legal action. Consequently, his status within the order was reinstated.
Funeral Arrangements
Discussions regarding the funeral rites are currently underway between the Jogye Order and Myungjin’s affiliated temple, Namseonsa in Jeju, where he resided. The exact details of the funeral arrangements are pending.
The passing of Monk Myungjin marks the end of a notable, albeit sometimes controversial, chapter for a prominent figure in Korean Buddhism. His contributions to the Jogye Order’s reform and his vocal critiques have left a lasting impact on the institution. The circumstances surrounding his death, while under investigation, point to a tragic accident during a recreational activity.
The Jogye Order, as the primary Buddhist denomination in Korea, has a rich history and complex internal dynamics. Figures like Myungjin, who have both served in leadership roles and challenged the status quo, often become focal points for discussions about the future direction and governance of the order. His expulsion and subsequent reinstatement highlight the internal tensions and legal processes that can shape the lives of high-ranking clergy members.
The investigation into the freediving accident will likely focus on safety protocols and the conditions at the time of the incident. While the exact cause remains to be determined, the event serves as a somber reminder of the potential risks associated with water sports, even for experienced individuals. The monastic community and followers will undoubtedly be reflecting on his legacy and the circumstances of his untimely death.
As the funeral arrangements are finalized, further details about the memorial services will be announced. The community will have an opportunity to pay their respects to a monk who, for decades, was a significant voice within Korean Buddhism, advocating for reform and engaging in public discourse.
