Hwaeomsa is traditionally said to have been founded by Master Yeongi in 544, the 22nd year of Baekje’s King Seong. It later developed into a major center of the Hwaeom tradition during Unified Silla.
The year 544 is presented as temple tradition rather than a firmly documented founding date. Today’s complex reflects many periods of rebuilding and restoration and was designated a Historic Site in 2009.