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As BTS prepares to perform in Busan amid reports of price gouging at some lodging establishments, Beomeosa Temple has drawn attention by offering free temple stays to foreign visitors. The temple says it will do more than provide a place to sleep: it plans a “midnight ramen” after the show, traditional temple meals and guided meditation programs to share Busan’s hospitality.
Seoksan, Beomeosa’s planning director, told YTN Radio’s Wise Radio Life on the 27th that Beomeosa has safeguarded this area for some 1,000 years and serves as a patriotic temple that holds the hearts of Busan residents. He said the initiative isn’t just about giving out beds; the temple wants to introduce international visitors to the warmth and compassion of Korean Buddhism. To that end, the temple will offer free lodging and temple food so fans visiting Busan for the concerts have a place to rest, even briefly.
Beomeosa agreed to cover all food and lodging costs for the temple stay. “Temple stays are normally not free, but after discussion here at Beomeosa we decided to offer everything at no charge,” Seoksan said, adding that the Korean Buddhist Cultural Foundation also pledged support. Interest was strong: 459 groups — a total of 918 people — applied just at Beomeosa.
The post-concert programming is especially eye-catching. “When people arrive after the concert, we’ll have a ramen time,” Seoksan said, calling it a midnight ramen time to help foreign visitors feel more connected to Korea. In the hall, the temple will play not only BTS songs but also gentle meditation music and hold group meditation sessions. Visitors who wish to take part in the solemn dawn prayer service will be welcome, and the temple plans guided walks along the forest trails that surround the grounds.
Beomeosa has also tailored its food offerings. “We’ll serve seasonal temple dishes, vegetarian ramen and temple desserts,” Seoksan said, noting beverages made with yuzu syrup, temple-made yakgwa (traditional sweets) and a snack the temple has branded as Beomeo chips.
Seoksan didn’t hide his fondness for BTS. “I like them,” he said, naming “Dynamite” as his favorite track. He added that BTS music will be played in the Seon Culture Education Center hall so visitors can enjoy it together. In short, Beomeosa is shaping itself into a place where visitors can experience a concert, find rest and encounter Buddhist culture all in one setting.
“Beomeosa isn’t just for a select few,” Seoksan said. “It’s open to anyone who needs a moment of rest.” He urged visitors who are struggling to take a slow walk through nature, enjoy a warm temple meal and simply listen to the wind through the mountain temple without speaking.
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