#USA #New York #Korean Cultural Center #Kyungtz'e Eosan #Buddhist Ritual

Korean Cultural Center New York Presents Kyungtz'e Eosan Sooryukje

The Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY) is set to host a deeply moving event known as Kyungtz'e Eosan Sooryukje, a traditional Korean Buddhist ritual aimed at offering peace and liberation to departed souls. This unique performance will take place on November 13 and 14, 2026, starting at 7:30 PM at the KCCNY Theater. Co-presented with the Kyungtz'e Eosan Preservation Society and led by the esteemed Venerable Dongju Wonmyung along with his disciples, this event will introduce New York audiences to the rich sounds and movements synonymous with Korea's Buddhist ritual heritage.

Kyungtz'e Eosan represents the chanting and ritual music traditions of Buddhist temples located in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province. It has been designated as Seoul Metropolitan Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 43, symbolizing its significance in preserving Korean culture. At the heart of these traditions is beompae, which involves the chanting of sacred Buddhist texts. This cherished ritual combines elements of chanting, percussion, and ritual dance to deliver a visually and audibly captivating experience. Highlighted performances during the event will include traditional butterfly and cymbal dances, showcasing the profound artistry pervasive throughout Korean Buddhist culture.

The Sooryukje ritual itself is elaborate and intended to provide offerings to all beings, particularly to the deceased and wandering spirits. The guiding ethos is one of compassion, ensuring that all souls, regardless of their circumstances, receive comfort and solace. Through the elements of chanting, ritual music, and dance, participants will engage in a heartfelt performance designed to convey love and solace while praying for peace and liberation.

As the event coincides with Veterans Day (November 11), it serves a dual purpose, honoring the unwavering dedication of veterans while also commemorating the lives lost due to war, terrorism, disasters, and other tragic events. Special prayers will be offered for the souls of those who lost their lives during the Korean War, the victims of the September 11 attacks, and others who have perished in various conflicts and disasters worldwide. This ceremony also provides an opportunity to honor unsung heroes—those who have died assisting and protecting others.

Among the program components is Chugwon, a beautiful ritual that prays for the departed to achieve rebirth in the Pure Land, a tranquil realm in Buddhist belief, further embodying the hope for health, happiness, and longevity for the living. Venerable Dongju Wonmyung plans to offer particular comfort to departed souls who remain unremembered, extending prayers for their peaceful repose and the safety of all from calamities.

“Through this performance, our goal is to present the grandeur of Korea's Buddhist cultural heritage and bring together audiences from diverse backgrounds to engage in remembrance and compassion,” stated Jeong Mi Lee, Executive Director of KCCNY. “We welcome the community to listen to the ritual sounds, observe the moving dances, reflect on personal experiences of life and loss, and take a moment for internal contemplation.”

Attendance is free and open to the public; however, pre-registration is necessary, facilitated via the KCCNY website. This event promises to be an enriching experience for those seeking connection and understanding of Korea's deep-rooted cultural practices.

About the Korean Cultural Center New York

The KCCNY has served as a vibrant cultural hub since its establishment in December 1979. It aims to promote Korean culture and enhance cultural exchanges in New York through various initiatives, including exhibitions, performing arts, films, and educational workshops. The Center, located at 122 E. 32nd Street in Manhattan, endeavors to immerse visitors in the richness of Korean culture.

About the Kyungtz'e Eosan Preservation Society

Dedicated to the preservation of the Kyungtz'e Eosan tradition, this society ensures the transmission of Buddhist chanting and ritual music recognized as Seoul Metropolitan Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 43. Under the guidance of Venerable Dongju Wonmyung, the society focuses on teaching and ceremonial performances to keep this legacy thriving.

For more information about the event and to RSVP, please visit www.koreanculture.org and follow @kccny on Instagram. Inquiries can be made to Hyo Han (Program Director of Performing Arts) at [email protected].