명성황후 발원 불사와 그 의미 = Buddhist Works Sponsored by Empress Myeongseong during the Reign of King Gojong

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Empress Myeongseong, a formidable presence in late Joseon Korea, wielded significant political power while assisting King Gojong in governance. This paper focuses on her role as a prominent patroness of Buddhism in the late 19th century. In the aftermath of King Jeongjo's reign, the Joseon royal court faced challenges regarding succession to the throne, and Empress Myeongseong sought to address this through the birth of a prince.
While utilizing folk beliefs and shamanistic practices to fulfill her aspirations, Empress Myeongseong was deeply devoted to Buddhism, surpassing contemporaries in her support for the faith. Her patronage of Buddhism manifested in various forms, including the construction of large-scale Maitreya statues, the establishment of significant prayer halls such as Chungyul Altar, Jungakdan(中嶽壇), and sponsorship for the production of the Lotus Sutra scriptures. Additionally, her patronage embodied the compassionate aspects of Buddhist faith, offering solace amidst worldly hardships and swiftly granting supplications, showcasing characteristics of Avalokitesvara and Dokseong faith.
Of particular note is the emphasis on Spiritual Experience in Empress Myeongseong's patronage of Buddhism, distinguishing her efforts from those of her contemporary political rival and fellow patron of Buddhism, Heungseon Daewongun. Empress Myeongseong emerged as a central figure in royal Buddhism of the late 19th century, sponsoring extensive Buddhist rituals in pursuit of the birth of a prince.