Bronze Bell of Samseonam Hermitage, Jinju

In Buddhist temples, large bronze bells are used to gather people for rituals and to announce time.

The bronze bell of Samseonam Hermitage is presumed to have been made during the Goryeo period (918-1392). It is said that it was discovered in 1951 at a former temple site in Saksil Village, Sagok-ri, after which it was relocated to and stored at Samseonam Hermitage. Although parts of it were slightly damaged and eroded, overall it remains in good condition.

On the top of the bell is a cannon, by which it is hung, and a tube for conveying sound. The cannons of Buddhist bells in Korea typically depict a dragon biting a wish-fulfilling jewel, and this bell is no exception. The body of the bell has two striking panels, and the layered lotus petal designs on them show the outstanding metalwork techniques of the Goryeo period.

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