Rock-carved Standing Buddha Triad in Yul-dong, Gyeongju

This rock carving located on the western slope of Byeokdosan Mountain depicts a Buddhist triad consisting of Amitabha (Buddha of the Western Paradise) standing in the center flanked by Avalokitesvara (Bodhisattva of Great Compassion) and Mahasthamaprapta (Bodhisattva of Wisdom and Strength). It is presumed to date to the Unified Silla period (668-935).

It is believed that all beings who call the name of Amitabha while reflecting on his meritorious virtues can be reborn in the Buddhist paradise of the West. Amitabha is depicted with a large, flat protuberance on the top of his head which symbolizes his wisdom. The folds of his robe are depicted gently as to convey the lines of the body. The right hand is extended downward and the left hand is lifted to the chest with the thumb and middle finger touching, which is a distinguishing feature of Amitabha. The two attendant bodhisattvas are depicted without headdresses, which is unusual.

It is presumed that there was once a wooden structure that enclosed this triad. Traces of where the structure attached to the rock face can be seen above the carvings.

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