Stupa of Gapsa Temple, Gongju

A stupa is a structure built to enshrine the relics or cremated remains of a Buddhist monk.

This stupa at Gapsa Temple dates to the early period of the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392). It was originally located at Jungsajaam Hermitage on the hill behind Gapsa Temple, but was moved to its present location in 1917.

The stupa is octagonal in shape and consists of a base, multi-tiered pedestal, body stone, roof stone, and jewel-shaped decorative top. It features carvings of the Four Guardian Kings, lotus flowers, and lions. Among early Goryeo-period stupas, it is particularly sophisticated, and is therefore an important object of research.

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