News&Notice
Dongguk University WISE Campus Hosts Festival to Pray for the Future of Buddhism, with Over 1,800 Young Buddhist Participants at the Wise Young Camp
The Dongguk University WISE Campus Foundation Committee announced that it successfully completed the "2024 WISE Young Camp 'Protagonist'" festival, which took place on November 12 at 3:00 PM in the Munmu Hall on campus.
Over 1,800 students and faculty members participated in the event, receiving ordination in hopes for the future of the Wise Young Camp and Buddhism. The first part of the event featured the ordination ceremony, followed by a lively “Aulim Hanmadang(Harmony Festival)” in the second part, which included club performances, student talent shows, and a Buddhist quiz competition. In the third part, the atmosphere heated up with performances by DJ NewJeansNim and singer HaHa, turning the event into a vibrant festival.
During the precept ceremony, Ven. Don-kwan, the chairman of Dongguk University’s foundation, said, “Taking the precepts is not something distant or difficult; it is a guide to finding oneself and a promise with the Buddha to fulfill one's role.” He continued, “The precepts are a light that brightens the long night, food for a traveler on a long journey, and like a jewel that purifies muddy water.” He emphasized, “The Buddha’s precepts are not something learned from others, but are about protecting and teaching oneself, which forms the strong foundation and guiding principles for Buddhists.”
In recent years, the Korean Buddhist community has been actively reflecting the needs of the younger generation through various contents. The Wise Young Camp, planned and led by Buddhist student organizations at Dongguk University WISE Campus, successfully brought together young Buddhist participants, offering a space to share their hearts and celebrate a joyful festival grounded in Buddhist values. Additionally, the newly established Dongguk University WISE Buddhist Club plans to organize more Buddhist events to discover and engage potential young Buddhists.
Through the ordination ceremony, over 1,800 young Buddhists received the precepts and became disciples of the Buddha, marking an important milestone in spreading the teachings of Buddhism among university students and youth, and expanding the reach of Buddhism.