The Gilt-Bronze Pensive Maitreya Bodhisattva is one of Korea’s most treasured national relics, showcasing a perfect harmony of contrast and balance. A closer look reveals a round face with a sharp line running from the eyebrows down to the bridge of the nose, a gentle smile, and a striking contrast between the vertically raised left leg and the comfortably lifted right leg. (Photo provided by the Korea Heritage Service)
SEOUL, July 15 (Korea Bizwire) — A once out-of-print photo book featuring Korea’s revered Pensive Bodhisattva statues has been reissued in a full revised edition for the first time in two decades, driven by a resurgence of public interest in Buddhism.
Minumsa Publishing announced on Monday that it has released new editions of Pensive Bodhisattva—a two-volume set that features photographs of two Korean National Treasures: the Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva with a Diadem of Flame Pattern and the Gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva with a Lotus Crown.
Originally published in 2005, the collection had long been unavailable, but was brought back to life earlier this year through a successful crowdfunding campaign on Wadiz, where it exceeded its initial target of 1 million won by raising over 60 million won, despite its premium price of 150,000 won. It is now available in bookstores nationwide.
The revival coincides with the rise of so-called “Hip Buddhism” in South Korea—an internet-coined trend that blends traditional Buddhist themes with modern pop culture.
Cover image of the two-volume book Pensive Bodhisattva (Image courtesy of Minumsa)
The movement gained traction thanks in part to comedian Yoon Sung-ho, who, under the nickname “New Jeans-nim,” popularized irreverent yet resonant Buddhist-themed catchphrases such as “Buddha Handsome” and “Ascend to Paradise Through Suffering.” This cultural wave drew over 200,000 visitors to the Seoul International Buddhism Expo this March.
The statues featured in the book, which depict the Buddha in serene contemplation with one hand resting on the cheek in a classic half-lotus pose, are widely regarded for their harmony of spiritual grace and human introspection. Both sculptures are currently housed in the National Museum of Korea’s “Room for Contemplation.”
Printed in a large horizontal format (44 cm wide), the books offer multi-angled and close-up images of the statues, accompanied by scholarly commentary from art historian Kang Woo-bang.
Two gilt-bronze Pensive Bodhisattva statues on display in the “Room of Quiet Contemplation” at the National Museum of Korea. The one on the left dates to the late 6th century, while the one on the right was made in the early 7th century. (Image source: National Museum of Korea)
In the introduction, Kang writes: “In moments of deep anguish or yearning for liberation, we instinctively rest our face on our hand and drift into contemplation. That such a human gesture becomes a sacred object of worship—only in Buddhism is this possible.”
The reissue underscores not only the enduring beauty of Korean Buddhist art but also its unexpected cultural revival among younger generations seeking meaning in a fast-changing world.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
