India in Korea: Influence of Buddhism in Korea
(Based on the book “India in Korea: Influence of Buddhism in Korea” by Dr. Ajay Kumar Ojha)
Review by Dr. Pandey A. K. Arun International DeepTech Conference, Seoul (26–27 March 2026)
Respected scholars, distinguished delegates, policy-makers, industry leaders, members of academia, and dear friends!
Civilizations are not static entities; they are living, breathing organisms. They flourish, expand, and advance over time; even in the face of adversity. Their vitality lies in their ability to adapt, absorb, and evolve. In this journey of growth, arts and traditions become the wings of civilization, carrying human values, creativity, and wisdom across generations and geographies with remarkable panache.
India and Korea stand as shining examples of such enduring civilizations. Their relationship transcends modern diplomacy and trade, reaching deep into the realms of history, philosophy, culture, and spiritual thought. Indeed, Indians and Koreans are like brothers and sisters; they are connected not merely by historical encounters, but by shared values and civilizational ethos. Language, often considered a barrier, has never been a major obstacle for civilizations to come together, interact, and sustain meaningful relationships.
The book "India in Korea: Influence of Buddhism in Korea" by Dr. Ajay Kumar Ojha beautifully captures this timeless connection. It highlights how the movement of ideas, especially through Buddhism, created a profound bridge between these two ancient cultures.
Allow me to begin not with statistics or academic arguments, but with a story, one that symbolically unites our civilizations across two millennia. According to Korean historical records such as the Samguk Yusa, around 48 AD, Princess Suryaratna from Ayodhya in India embarked on a remarkable journey across the seas. Guided by a divine vision, she travelled to the Korean Peninsula and married King Kim Suro, the founder of the Gaya Kingdom. In Korean history, she is revered as Queen Heo Hwang-ok.
This story is not merely a legend; it is a cultural memory that continues to inspire. Even today, members of the Kim clan of Gimhae trace their lineage to this royal union, and a memorial in Ayodhya stands as a testament to this shared heritage. Her journey reflects the courage, conviction, and panache with which ancient people forged connections; guided not by technology, but by faith and destiny.
Following this early connection, a more enduring and transformative bridge emerged: the spread of Buddhism. Originating in India in the 6th century BCE through the teachings of Lord Buddha, Buddhism carried profound principles of wisdom, mindfulness, and Mahakaruna - the great compassion for all living beings.
As detailed in Dr. Ojha’s work, Buddhism reached Korea in the 4th century AD and flourished in the kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. Though it arrived via China, its philosophical roots remained deeply Indian. The Korean people embraced it not only as a spiritual path but also as a dynamic force that shaped their arts, ethics, governance, and intellectual traditions.
The influence of Buddhism on Korean civilization is visible in its magnificent cultural achievements. Architectural and artistic masterpieces such as the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple reflect a sublime harmony of spirituality and aesthetics. The Haeinsa Temple, preserving the Tripitaka Koreana; over 80,000 wooden printing blocks of Buddhist scriptures, stands as one of humanity’s greatest intellectual accomplishments.
Beyond tangible heritage, Buddhism also nurtured human capital. Monasteries became vibrant centres of learning where philosophy, medicine, astronomy, and literature were studied. These institutions cultivated discipline, knowledge, and ethical leadership, strengthening the very fabric of Korean society.
Although Buddhism faced challenges during certain historical periods, particularly under the Joseon dynasty, its spiritual essence endured. Today, it continues to thrive, with initiatives like Temple Stay programs offering people a chance to experience mindfulness and monastic life proving that ancient wisdom remains deeply relevant in the modern world.
The shared Buddhist heritage of India and Korea carries a powerful message. In an age driven by artificial intelligence, rapid technological advancement, and global competition, true progress must be guided by compassion, ethical insight, and inner balance.
The narrative presented in India in Korea is therefore more than history; it is a testament to how civilizations grow through dialogue, exchange, and mutual respect. Empires may rise and fall, but ideas rooted in compassion and wisdom endure across time.
Nearly two thousand years ago, a princess from Ayodhya built a human bridge between India and Korea. Around the same time, the teachings of the Buddha travelled across borders and took deep root in Korean soil.
Today, it is our shared responsibility to strengthen this bridge through scholarship, cultural understanding, and the cultivation of enlightened human capital. Technology may advance civilization, but it is compassion and wisdom that ultimately sustain humanity.
Thank you very much. Jai Hind! Vande Mataram!
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