A 1,232-year-old temple in Seoul finds viral fame with 'moktak clickers

Bongeunsa is a 1,232-year-old Buddhist temple in South Korea. For many years, visitors have come to the temple to pray for blessings, such as getting into their dream school, having a child, or receiving a salary increase. Recently, the temple has attracted attention for a new product: moktak fidget clickers. A moktak is a wooden instrument used in Buddhist rituals. Its sound is associated with mindfulness and clearing the mind of distractions.

The miniature moktak clickers have a small button that makes a wooden clicking sound when pressed. Some people playfully believe that using them can bring peace of mind and Buddhist merit. Since their release, the clickers have repeatedly sold out, and visitors often line up when new stocks arrive. The temple offers different designs and sounds and plans to introduce versions featuring the 12 zodiac animals.

Bongeunsa also sells other popular souvenirs, including wish bracelets and Buddhist prayer beads. Visitors can rub the belly of a Laughing Buddha statue near the entrance for good luck with money. Inside the main hall, they can perform sambae, a Buddhist ritual involving three prostrations, or respectful bows. Even Lee Jae-yong, the executive chairman of Samsung Electronics, has visited the temple several times with his mother.

Visitors can also learn about other Buddhist traditions. At Mireuk Daebul Square, they can walk three laps to honor the Three Jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma (Buddhist teachings), and the Sangha (the Buddhist community). Near a stone pagoda, visitors can pray while burning incense or lighting a prayer candle. The temple also offers gongyang, a traditional practice of mindful eating. Visitors can enjoy plant-based meals similar to those traditionally eaten by Buddhist monks.

The popularity of Bongeunsa reflects a wider trend in South Korea, where Buddhist culture is reaching new audiences through creative products and events. The annual Seoul International Buddhism Expo has helped make Buddhist culture popular online. Past events have featured monks performing as DJs using K-pop music and moktak sounds. These activities make Buddhist traditions more accessible and encourage people to explore them in new and interesting ways.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source: https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10898686

Comprehension

What is Bongeunsa, and why do people visit it?
What is a moktak fidget clicker, and why has it become popular?
What are two other activities or traditions visitors can experience at Bongeunsa?
What do the Three Jewels of Buddhism represent?
How are Buddhist culture and traditions becoming more popular among younger audiences in South Korea?

Discussion

Have you ever visited a temple, church, or other religious place? What was your experience like?
Do you think small objects can help people feel calmer or more mindful? Why or why not?
Why do you think the moktak fidget clickers have become popular?
Would you buy a souvenir from a historic or religious place? What kind of souvenir would you choose?
Do you think traditional religions should use modern trends, such as social media and popular music, to attract younger people?
What are some traditions in your country that have become popular with younger generations?
Do you think visiting religious places can help people deal with stress and uncertainty? Why?
If you could spend a day exploring Bongeunsa, which activity would you like to try, and why?

Vocabulary

Percussion instrument – a musical instrument that produces sound when it is hit, shaken, or tapped
Mindfulness – the practice of paying attention to the present moment
Distraction – something that takes your attention away from what you are doing
Merit – spiritual value or goodness believed to come from good actions
Prostration – an act of showing respect by bowing down low or lying face down
Incense – a material that produces a pleasant smell when burned, often used in religious ceremonies
Plant-based – made mainly or entirely from plants rather than Mindful eating – paying close attention to the food you eat, including its taste, texture, and smell