Last Updated on 18 April 2025 by Vanessa
If you think temples are just for monks, think again! The cats of Heungryunsa Temple (Seoknamsa Temple) in Anseong are stealing the show, and it’s time to meet them.
Meet the Cats of Heungryunsa Temple (Seoknamsa Temple) in Anseong, South Korea
Heungryunsa Temple sits in the quiet hills of Anseong, South Korea. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel a little more grounded. Surrounded by trees and fresh mountain air, the temple offers peace—and, if you’re lucky, a warm welcome from its two friendly cats.
A temple with deep roots
Heungryunsa Temple isn’t just famous for its cats. It has a long and meaningful history in the region. Builders first raised the temple during the Goryeo Dynasty. Since then, people have rebuilt and restored it several times.
Today, it’s still an active place for worship and meditation.
The name Heungryunsa means “Temple of Flourishing Compassion.” It fits perfectly. The monks here open their hearts not just to people, but to all living beings—including animals.
Does Heungryunsa Temple look familiar? That’s probably because it was the setting for the popular K-drama Goblin.
A calm getaway from the city
Anseong, in Gyeonggi Province, sits about 90 minutes south of Seoul. Most tourists skip over it, which makes it even more special. Heungryunsa feels like a true hidden gem.
Getting there is part of the experience, with quiet country roads, farms, and peaceful villages along the way.
When you arrive, you’ll see beautiful temple buildings with curved rooftops, bright wooden details, and forest views that stretch out around you. Everything feels calm and open. It’s a perfect place to pause and recharge.
📍 Read next: Visiting Kitty Cat Café in Pyeongtaek
Say hello to the cats
Now for the real stars: the cats.
There are only two cats at the temple, and they each bring their own charm.
One is a calm gray tabby who loves to nap in sunny spots near the main hall.
The other is a playful orange cat who sometimes sneaks into prayer rooms and curls up beside meditating visitors.
These cats aren’t strays. The monks look after them, and visitors often stop to offer treats or gentle pets. Locals say the cats wandered in years ago and decided to stay. Honestly, who could blame them?
A living example of Buddhist compassion
Korean Buddhism teaches respect for all life. Every being—human or animal—has value. The cats at Heungryunsa are proof of that belief. No one cages them or forces them to stay. They live freely and peacefully alongside everyone else.
Their presence adds something special. Sitting quietly while a cat purrs nearby makes the temple feel even more warm and welcoming.
📍 Read next: Cat’s Attic: A Cat-Themed Café in Seoul
Planning your visit to Heungryunsa Temple
Address
Heungryunsa Temple, 40-18 Cheongnyang-ro 70beon-gil, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, South Korea.
Getting there
To reach the Heungryunsa Temple from Seoul, take the subway from Seoul Subway Line 1 station toward Incheon. Transfer at Bupyeong Station to the Suin-Bundang Line. Exit at Inha University Station. This journey takes about one hour.
At Inha University Station, board bus number 8. Exit at Songdo Park Xi Apt.
From here, it’s a 15-minute walk uphill to the temple.
Entrance fee
You can visit Heungryunsa Temple for free—there’s no admission charge for exploring the grounds.
Best time to visit
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or in autumn for colorful leaves.
What to bring?
Wear comfy shoes, and bring a camera and maybe a snack for the cats (just keep it small and healthy).
Temple etiquette
This is an active religious site. Dress modestly, speak softly, and don’t disturb monks or people meditating.
Final thoughts
Have you been to Heungryunsa Temple? Have you met the cats? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Or, if you haven’t been yet, is this spot now on your South Korea travel list? Let us know.
Foto’s by Bart Vodderie.
📍 Read next: 100+ Korean Cat Names (with meanings)
Pin this article about Heungryunsa Temple in Anseong, South Korea!
4 responses
I loved my time in South Korea, so I definitely want to go back one day, and this temple goes straight to my bucket list! So many cuties… thanks for all the insights.
South Korea is high on my bucket list! I would love to say hi to these cats 🙂
I love the cat spin on visiting this temple. My partner is a super cat enthusiast so I could definitely see adding Anseong to our itinerary if we ever make it to South Korea.
This sounds like a lovely place to visit!