The Stupa of State Preceptor Jigwang was illegally removed from Beopcheonsa Temple Site in 1911, taken to Osaka in 1912 and later damaged into roughly 12,000 fragments during the Korean War. After conservation it was restored inside the earthquake-resistant site museum in November 2024. “Returned” means the temple-site area, not reinstallation on its original foundation.
How to read the site
Dates and figures in this article are reference points for comparing periods, not decorations meant to exaggerate the place. At the site, distinguish old fabric, reconstructed elements and spaces that still serve everyday life. That separation makes Wonju’s changes easier to read without turning the whole city into a single neat story.
Before you visit
Do not assume that one stop represents all of Wonju. Use can differ on weekdays, weekends, market days and closure days, while exhibitions, activities and individual businesses may change. Check the operator’s latest notice before leaving, then compare the historical account with what is actually accessible.