Jangyuksa's main hall on verge of national treasure designation

The main hall of Jangyuksa temple in Changsu-myeon, Yeongdeok-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, was announced Wednesday as a candidate for national treasure designation by the Cultural Heritage Administration.

Jangyuksa is an ancient temple said to have been founded by the monk Naong Wangsa, regarded as one of the three great Buddhist masters in Korean history.

The temple already holds three national treasures — a dry-lacquer seated Avalokitesvara bodhisattva, a Vulture Peak Assembly painting and a painting of Ksitigarbha with the Ten Kings of Hell. If the main hall receives final designation, the temple's total will rise to four.

The main hall reflects the architectural characteristics of the late 17th century and documents changes in temple construction and interior decoration through the mid-18th century.

Its distinctive murals, dancheong paintwork and interior decorations are considered important evidence of the historical and artistic value of late Joseon Buddhist architecture and art.

The Cultural Heritage Administration will gather public opinion during a 30-day notice period before referring the matter to the National Heritage Committee for a final designation decision.

Yeongdeok-gun County Mayor Jo Ju-hong said it was meaningful to have the hall's value recognized, adding that the county would work to preserve and manage local cultural heritage and continue to identify outstanding assets.

Meanwhile, Yeongdeok-gun has received five national heritage designations over the past five years, including two national treasures, one scenic site and two national folk cultural heritage items.