Originality and Alteration: The Repair and Restoration of Sŏkkuram Grotto During the Park Chung-hee Era

The restoration of Sŏkkuram Grotto during the Park Chung-hee era fundamentally altered its structure and public perception, shifting its narrative from a single Buddhist hall to an enclosed dual-chamber temple resembling Indian cave temples. Key modifications included adding a concrete double-dome and realigning the entrance, which reinforced a specific historical interpretation as both a state-protecting temple and a royal prayer hall. This study re-examines these 1960s interventions, combining modern and pre-modern techniques, to analyze their lasting impact on heritage management and public understanding of Sŏkkuram's original design.

Kang, H. (2026). Originality and Alteration: The Repair and Restoration of Sŏkkuram Grotto During the Park Chung-hee Era. Korean Journal of Art History, 329, 239–268. https://doi.org/10.31065/kjah.329.202603.008