Won Buddhism, or Wonbulgyo, is a modern Korean Buddhist movement founded by Pak Chung-bin, later known as Sotaesan, in 1916. It presents itself as a reformed and modernized interpretation of traditional Buddhism, consciously adapted to the conditions of contemporary life and industrial society. At its heart stands the symbol of the One Circle (Il-Won-Sang), a perfect circle representing the Dharmakaya Buddha, ultimate reality, the Buddha’s enlightened mind, and the source of all beings and phenomena. This circle replaces conventional Buddha statues, serving as the central object of contemplation and devotion. By placing this simple yet profound symbol at the center of its religious life, the tradition underscores the universality and formlessness of the awakened mind.

Doctrinally, Won Buddhism draws on Mahayana teachings such as emptiness, dependent origination, karma, and rebirth, but re-expresses them in simplified and practical language. Rather than emphasizing monastic withdrawal, it teaches that work, family life, and social engagement are themselves fields of spiritual cultivation. The movement articulates its path through frameworks such as spiritual cultivation, inquiry and study, and mindful or right action, all directed toward transforming everyday activities into opportunities for awakening. In this way, Buddhadharma is understood to permeate daily life, and daily life becomes the very arena of Buddhadharma.

The community structure reflects this integration of spirituality and ordinary existence. Won Buddhism is strongly lay-oriented and allows both celibate and married clergy, while affirming gender equality in spiritual roles. Its places of practice, often called Dharma halls or kyodang, function less as secluded temples and more as community centers for study, worship, and service. Rituals and ceremonies are streamlined to enhance accessibility, and the movement promotes active engagement in education and social welfare. Through these forms, it encourages gratitude, moral discipline, social responsibility, and practical wisdom as expressions of the awakened life.

Ethically and spiritually, Won Buddhism seeks to harmonize inner cultivation with outer responsibility. It emphasizes self-reliance, mindful choice in action, and selfless service, inviting practitioners to see every encounter and task as part of the path. By integrating traditional Buddhist insights with concerns for social harmony and moral conduct, it offers a vision in which enlightenment is not confined to meditation halls but is realized amid the flux of human relationships and societal obligations.