Seogokjeongsa Seokjo Yaksayeorae Ipsang

This statue was originally located at the temple site formerly known as Ssangyongsa, but was moved to Seogokjeongsa around 1980 due to mining development. The Buddha statue, halo (gwangbae), and pedestal are all carved from a single stone. Except for the short neck, which makes it appear slightly hunched, the overall proportions are well balanced. On the shaved head, a small ushnisha (yukgye) shaped like a topknot rises high. The round face is full of volume, and although the eyes and mouth are worn away, it is not difficult to discern the facial features. The Buddha is carved in high relief, fully revealing the volume of the shoulders. The robe covering both shoulders envelops the entire body, and its thickness conceals the bodily contours. The robe, which folds once at the neck, flows down in a U-shape from the chest to the ankles, with thick and rough folds at regular intervals. The left hand rests on the abdomen with the palm facing upward, holding a large medicine bowl, while the right hand rests on the thigh with the palm facing inward. The halo and pedestal are large compared to the body, giving a sense of stability. The halo behind the body has a pointed top, and it is presumed that the head halo and body halo were carved separately, but due to wear, specific details cannot be confirmed. The pedestal consists of two tiers, with large carvings of an upside-down lotus pattern and a fully bloomed lotus pattern. Based on the tall and large ushnisha, the voluminous face, the well-balanced body, the U-shaped robe folds and incised lines, and the stable halo and pedestal, it is estimated to have been made in the early Goryeo period. Although the exact date of production is unknown, it is evaluated as an important resource because it is in good condition and is a rare standing Medicine Buddha statue in Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. (Source: Cultural Heritage Administration website)