The Stupa of Sujongsa Temple, Namyangju

This stupa was built in 1439 to honor Princess Jeonghye (?-1424), a daughter of King Taejong (r. 1400-1418) of the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). A stupa is generally built to containing the remains or relics of an eminent monk, so it is interesting that it honors a princess. This stupa is important tangible evidence of the widespread worship of Buddhism among the Joseon royal family.

The stupa consists of a square platform, an octagonal base, a spherical body, a roof stone, and a decorative top. Each part is exquisitely decorated with various designs, showing the advanced artistry of the early Joseon period. The inscription on the top surface of the roof stone records that the stupa was erected in 1439 in honor of Princess Jeonghye.

In 1939, when the stupa was dismantled and repaired, a set of sarira reliquaries and a golden miniature pagoda were discovered inside the stupa. These were collectively designated as Treasure No. 259 in 1963.

Source: Korea Heritage Service signboard ↗ · collected 2026-10-08