5 Beautiful Religious Architectures to Visit in South Korea
Here are some beautiful architectural structures in Korea that evoke a sense of faith and spirituality. Just as beliefs and faith differ for everyone, these buildings resonate uniquely with each person.
1. The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Namyang (화성 남양성모지)
by Architect Mario Botta
- 112, Namyangseongji-ro, Namyang-eup, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do
This place, designed by the renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta, has garnered attention for its striking design. Built with Mario Botta’s signature red bricks, the cathedral features a ceiling structure with overlapping arches and hundreds of windows that allow light to permeate evenly throughout the space, enhancing its beauty and grandeur.
2. Bangju Church (제주 방주교회)
by Architect Itami Jun
- 113, Sallongnam-ro 762beon-gil, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
This church, designed by architect Itami Jun, is inspired by Noah’s Ark. The building’s surrounding water space and the soaring roof that reaches towards the sky evoke the imagery of the actual Noah’s Ark.
3. Won Buddhism Wonnam Temple (서울 원남교당)
by Architect Cho Min-seok
- 23, Changgyeonggung-ro 22-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
This building, designed by architect Cho Min-seok of Mass Studies, who is known for projects like Southscape and Space K, was constructed after demolishing a 60-year-old structure. It features a memorial hall with a ceiling height of 14 meters and a large circular space in the diagonal hall, both of which are overwhelmed by the light pouring in from the high ceiling and the reverent atmosphere.
4. Catholic Diocese of Daejeon (세종 천주교 대전교구청)
by Architect Kang Suk-won
- 893, Bangok-dong, Sejong-si
This place was inspired by the masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Notre-Dame Cathedral in France. It incorporates both Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles and was completed using 1.7 million bricks.
5. Light of Life Church (생명의 빛 예수마을)
by Architect Shin Hyung-cheol
- 338-32 Bongmisanan-gil, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
The chapel is constructed with numerous logs standing vertically, giving the impression that the trees are alive. As light streams down from the ceiling and flows along the wood, it feels as if life has been infused into the space. The exterior of the building features a linear structure made of glass, while the interior is designed in a circular theater form, symbolically expressing the difference between life and what comes after death.
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