The South Korean port city of Busan transformed into a vibrant hub of Buddhist culture from 7–10 August 2025 as it hosted the Busan International Buddhism Expo. Designed as a four-day celebration, the event transcended religious boundaries, spotlighting Buddhism as a holistic way of life meant to relieve the stress of the modern world and offer pathways to lasting well-being.
A New Vision for Modern Buddhism
Organized under the concept of “Buddhist-Core” (불교코어), the expo reflected an ambitious vision—moving beyond traditional religious settings and inviting attendees of all ages to experience the richness of Buddhist values through contemporary culture, art, and practice. Supported by organizations like the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the event saw its participation double from the previous year, boasting nearly 400 booths hosted by 250 organizations and artists.
From meditation culture products and inspired crafts to hands-on meditation zones and Dharma Talks, visitors could explore the spectrum of Buddhist lifestyle offerings. Temple food demonstrations and musical performances gave additional sensory dimensions to the event, while the “Hidden Dharma” challenge, themed after the Noble Eightfold Path, gamified spiritual discovery and encouraged immersive learning.
An International Exchange of Heritage
A major highlight of the 2025 edition was its expanded reach across Asia. Delegations from Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, and other countries brought their unique Buddhist heritages to Busan, underscoring Buddhism’s cross-border appeal. The events not only fostered interfaith dialogue but also strengthened economic and cultural ties among Asian nations.
According to Amos Simon of the International Buddhist Confederation in Delhi, “This four-day event has brought together monks, cultural leaders, international businesses, and travel industry professionals from across Asia… a significant step toward deepening the spiritual ties between India and Korea, and a commitment to promoting global Buddhist heritage.”
Uttar Pradesh: Showcasing the Buddhist Heartland
A standout among the international participants was the Tourism Department of Uttar Pradesh (UP), India—the land where Buddha delivered his first sermon in Sarnath and attained Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar. The UP pavilion emerged as a vibrant center of spiritual dialogue, attracting Korean monastic leaders, cultural delegations, travel professionals, and the general public alike.
At the pavilion, visitors explored interactive exhibits that brought to life the sacred Buddhist circuit of Uttar Pradesh. Through compelling displays, organizers highlighted the state’s rich heritage as the spiritual anchor of the Buddhist world. According to Jaiveer Singh, UP’s minister for culture and tourism, “Our pavilion emerged as a vibrant hub of cultural connection, spiritual dialogue, and international collaboration… reaffirming UP’s position as the heart of the global Buddhist circuit.” The interest was so great that several Korean temples have already started organizing group pilgrimages to Uttar Pradesh, with delegations of 25 and 50 visitors scheduled for late 2025.
Principal Secretary of Tourism, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, described UP’s participation as “not merely about travel but about creating transformative experiences that connect people, histories, and spiritual legacies across continents.” Such engagement aims to carry forward the Buddha’s message to the world, forging living bridges between East Asia and South Asia.
Transforming Stereotypes, Inspiring Generations
The essence of the Busan Expo was to make Buddhism accessible and relatable, especially for younger audiences. Survey data from 2024 showed that while 51% of South Koreans claim no religious affiliation, Buddhism is the country’s fastest-growing spiritual path—thanks in part to events like this that gently dispel the notion of Buddhism as old-fashioned or inaccessible.
On stage, performances and talks by leading Buddhist teachers gave practical guidance for daily living in a digital world. Savoring lotus root salad, learning to meditate, or simply soaking in the artistry and serenity on generous display, expo visitors left with new perspectives—and perhaps, a commitment to rediscovering peace amid the rush of modern life.
The 2025 Busan International Buddhism Expo stands as a bold example of how ancient traditions and contemporary creativity can unite communities, empower spiritual exploration, and build new bonds—both within Asia and around the world.
