Sungnimsan Temple, Iksan崇林寺

Sungnimsa is a branch temple of Geumsansa, which is the head temple of the 17th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It was founded by Jinpyo during the reign of King Gyeongdeok of Silla. According to another account, it was founded in 1345 (the 1st year of King Chungmok's reign of Goryeo), and the temple's name is said to have been derived from 'Sung' of Mount Song and 'Rim' of Shaolin Temple, commemorating Bodhidharma's nine years of meditation while facing a wall at Shaolin Temple on Mount Song. In 1697 (the 23rd year of King Sukjong's reign), Yeongwonjeon was constructed. In 1819 (the 19th year of King Sunjo's reign) and 1882 (the 19th year of King Gojong's reign), Sungnimsa Bogwangjeon and its surrounding buildings were repaired. In 1885 (the 22nd year of King Gojong's reign), Uwharu was rebuilt. In 1912, the main shrine hall was repaired. In 1923, Abbot Hwang Seong-ryeol newly built Nahanjeon and Yeongwonjeon. In 1957, Siwangjeon and Nahanjeon were repaired with donations from Go Gwang-man, continuing to the present day. Furthermore, Sungnimsa possesses many National Treasures and items of Jeollabuk-do Tangible Cultural Heritage.