Korea Invites Global Travellers to Discover the Mindfulness and Heritage of Korean Temple Cuisine

As global interest in wellness-focused and sustainable dining continues to rise, Korea is inviting travellers from around the world to experience the profound mindfulness of Korean Temple Cuisine. Recently designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Korean Temple Food is gaining significant international attention as a unique culinary tradition rooted in spirituality, sustainability, and centuries of cultural history.

A 1,700-Year-Old Culinary Heritage Rooted in Mindfulness

More than just a style of cooking, Korean Temple Cuisine is a 1,700-year-old Buddhist practice shaped by principles of harmony, moderation, and respect for all living things. Entirely plant-based and prepared using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, temple food embodies a philosophy that aligns with the values of modern travellers who seek holistic wellness, eco-friendly travel experiences, and authentic cultural immersion.

This renewed global interest comes at a time when travellers are increasingly drawn to culinary journeys that nourish both body and mind—making Korea a standout destination for mindful gastronomy.

Korean Temple Food Festival Draws Thousands in Seoul

To celebrate the new national heritage designation and introduce temple cuisine to global audiences, the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism hosted several landmark events in Seoul. The highlight was the 4th Korean Temple Food Festival, the largest in the past decade, which showcased the depth and diversity of this culinary tradition.

Held across various venues, the festival brought together eleven temples, offering interactive workshops, chef-led cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions, and insightful talks by respected monks and nuns. The event attracted over 20,000 participants, with a marked rise in younger attendees in their 20s and 30s—a testament to temple cuisine’s growing cultural appeal.

Complementing the festival, an international symposium at the National Palace Museum of Korea explored temple food as a global model for sustainable and mindful dining. Experts, scholars, and culinary leaders shared perspectives on how Buddhist food traditions can influence modern dietary movements worldwide.

Immersive Temple Food Experiences Await Travellers in Korea

Visitors eager to experience Korean Temple Cuisine firsthand will find a variety of accessible programs across the country. In the heart of Seoul’s cultural hub, the Korean Temple Food Center in Insadong welcomes international travellers with one-day introductory classes. Led by trained instructors, these hands-on sessions teach the philosophy behind temple cuisine and guide participants through creating simple, seasonal dishes that reflect centuries-old mindfulness practices.

Beyond the capital, several temples across Korea offer temple stay programs, where guests can immerse themselves in monastic life, meditation, and traditional temple meals.

A Meaningful Journey Where Culture, Nourishment, and Mindfulness Meet

As meaningful and sustainable travel gains momentum, Korea stands at the forefront with a culinary tradition that encourages visitors to slow down, be present, and savour each moment.

Through Korean Temple Cuisine, travellers are invited to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with a heritage that has shaped the nation’s cultural soul for generations.