Korean Buddhist Delegation accorded grand farewell at Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Leh
The Mahabodhi Devachan Family hosted a warm and memorable farewell ceremony in honour of the Korean Buddhist Delegation led by Most Venerable Shim San (Sunim), Abbot of Hong Beop Sa Temple, Busan, Republic of Korea, marking the successful conclusion of their visit to Ladakh.
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The evening celebrated the deepening bonds of friendship between India and the Republic of Korea, founded upon their shared Buddhist heritage and a common commitment to peace, compassion, and interfaith harmony.
During their visit, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre and Hong Beop Sa Temple, paving the way for long-term collaboration in promoting Global Buddhism, spiritual and cultural exchange, interfaith dialogue, educational initiatives, and humanitarian service.
Another historic highlight of the visit was the laying of the foundation stone for a Korean-style Buddha Statue at the MIMC Buddha Park for World Peace by Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena and Most Ven. Shim San, in the presence of the entire Korean delegation. The statue will stand as a lasting symbol of the enduring friendship between the Republic of Korea and Ladakh and of the shared Buddhist values that unite the two communities.
The farewell programme commenced with the Prayer of Compassion, invoking blessings for peace, harmony, and the welfare of all beings.
MIMC Family expressed gratitude to the Korean delegation for their visit and described the occasion as more than a farewell. It was a celebration of friendship, cultural exchange, and a shared vision for a more compassionate and harmonious world.
The evening featured a vibrant series of cultural performances by the students of the Mahabodhi Residential School, showcasing the institution's holistic approach to education envisioned by Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena. Through songs and dances dedicated to Lord Shakyamuni Buddha, loving-kindness, mindfulness, and universal brotherhood, the students reflected the values of compassion, respect, and inner transformation that form the foundation of their education.
The programme also highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh through energetic performances, including the traditional Jabro Dance, the auspicious Tashispa Dance, and other folk presentations celebrating unity, gratitude, and harmony.
A particularly memorable moment came when the members of the Korean delegation delighted the audience with a graceful presentation of the traditional Korean folk song Arirang, accompanied by a beautiful fan dance. The heartfelt performance transformed the evening into a true celebration of cultural exchange, reflecting Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena's long-cherished vision of building bridges of friendship through mutual respect and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Inspired by their guests, the students of Mahabodhi presented a special fan dance in tribute to the Korean delegation, symbolising the growing friendship between the people of Ladakh and the Republic of Korea.
The farewell ceremony also featured a special felicitation programme. The Himalayan Ti Ratna Award 2026 was conferred upon Most Ven. Shim San (Sunim) in recognition of his exemplary spiritual leadership, his outstanding contribution to the advancement of Global Buddhism, his dedication to strengthening international Buddhist fellowship, and his unwavering commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, peace, compassion, and harmony.
Certificates of Appreciation were also presented to the members of the Korean delegation in recognition of their visit and their contribution to strengthening the relationship between Hong Beop Sa Temple and the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre.
Addressing the gathering, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena expressed his deep appreciation to the Korean delegation for their friendship and support. He remarked that Buddhism has always served as a bridge connecting nations and cultures, and expressed confidence that the partnership established through the MoU and the Korean-style Buddha Statue would further strengthen the bonds between the Buddhist communities of Korea and Ladakh while inspiring future generations to work together for peace, compassion, and the welfare of humanity.
The programme concluded with prayers for the continued flourishing of Buddhism, lasting friendship between the Republic of Korea and India, and the shared aspiration to build a world rooted in wisdom, compassion, and harmony. As the delegation prepares to depart Ladakh, the visit leaves behind not only cherished memories but also a renewed commitment to international Buddhist cooperation and enduring people-to-people friendship.