Abstract
In the author opinion, the study of Korean Buddhism as a historical phenomenon is of little interest if it is not accompanied by an analysis of the contemporary political, social and cultural situation of any given time. This chapter focuses on the issue of state and religion in a recent period in the history of Korea, as exemplified in the relationship between Buddhism and the government of the military dictator Park Chung hee, who held office from 1962 to 1979. Park's assassination in the autumn of 1979 paved the way for Chun Doo hwan, another ruthless president formed in the Military Academy in Seoul. Whereas Park had been both sympathetic to Buddhism as well as economically supportive, Chun, as a devout Christian, had a keen dislike and distrust of Korea's Buddhists. Chun's condescending attitude towards the large group of Buddhists in Korea eventually signalled his downfall. Keywords: Chun Doo hwan; Korean Buddhism; military academy; Park Chung hee; political powers; Seoul
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
