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Experience Korea’s unique Daengple Stay, a dog-friendly temple stay program allowing owners to explore Buddhist culture with their pets.
Introducing Daengple Stay—an innovative and heartwarming experience designed for pet lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Combining “daengdaengi,” a Korean slang term affectionately used for puppies, and the tranquil concept of a traditional “temple stay,” this unique program offers a fresh take on travel with pets in Korea.
Jointly organized by the Korea Tourism Organization, Jeungpyeong County, and Ban Life (a platform connecting dog owners with pet-friendly accommodations), Daengple Stay allows travelers to immerse themselves in Korea’s serene temple culture without leaving their pets behind. This special experience provides dog owners the chance to bond with their pets while exploring traditional Korean heritage. Everything is within a calm, culturally rich setting tailored for relaxation and connection. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a dog owner, or simply looking for an extraordinary journey, Daengple Stay brings a blend of tradition and modern companionship for all.
Temple Stay
Buddhist temple stays have long been a favorite among locals and international visitors to Korea, offering a rare chance to step into the serene world of monastic life. These programs provide a peaceful escape where participants can meditate, reflect, and recharge within the tranquil confines of a traditional Korean monastery. Through activities such as meditation, tea ceremonies, and conversations with monks, temple stays create a meaningful cultural experience rooted in spirituality and mindfulness—an ideal retreat for those seeking calm and introspection.
Daengple Stay
Lee Hye-mi, the founder of Ban Life, established her business in 2019 after recognizing a growing demand among dog owners wanting more shared experiences with their pets.
With Daengple Stay, she’s taken that vision a step further, collaborating with traditional spaces to create a unique program for pet-friendly cultural immersion. Launching earlier this year, Daengple Stay paused during the summer to avoid the intense heat but has since resumed at Mireuksa, the Buddhist temple that welcomed Lee’s initiative after she reached out to several temples. This partnership marks a new chapter, allowing pet owners to connect with Korean heritage and spirituality, all while keeping their furry companions close.
Mireuksa – A Daengple Stay
At the heart of Daengple Stay is Ven. Jeong-gak, the compassionate head monk of Mireuksa, whose special bond with her dog, Hwaoem, reflects the program’s spirit. Four years ago, Hwaoem, a stray, wandered into the temple seeking food. Ven. Jeong-gak soon realized he had no owner, and their friendship blossomed, inspiring her to name him Hwaoem. It symbolizes a disciple of Buddha and a monk’s companion.
Ven. Jeong-gak’s unique perspective on animals in the temple stands out: while many monks avoid bringing dogs into the prayer room, she embraces their presence, seeing no restriction in Buddhist teachings against it. “All lives are equal and precious, and the temple should be open to not only people but to all living things,” she explained. This openness lets dogs wander freely, rest inside the prayer hall, or even sit on Jeong-gak’s seat—a sight that fills her with joy. She warmly welcomes both owners and their pets, believing that it’s often the dogs who guide their humans to such profound experiences.
What can you expect?
Participants at Daengple Stay find moments of peace and connection. The program includes activities like sharing temple food, receiving guidance from Ven. Jeong-gak, writing wishes on traditional hanji paper, and performing Buddhism’s 108 bows alongside their pets. This popular monthly program resumed in October after a summer break and now sells out in seconds through the Ban Life app. At Daengple Stay, pet owners and their furry friends explore the depths of Korean culture and Buddhist wisdom, creating memories and forging bonds that transcend the ordinary.
According to Yang Su-bae, director of the Korea Tourism Organization’s Sejong and North Chungcheong Office, the popularity of Daengple Stay has inspired plans to expand dog-friendly temple stay programs across North Chungcheong. This move aims to boost local tourism by attracting more visitors eager to enjoy cultural experiences with their pets.
Daengple Stay welcomes all dogs, regardless of size or breed, and allows each participant to bring up to two dogs. Owners are responsible for bringing their dog’s essentials, such as snacks, lunch, and a leash, ensuring a comfortable experience for both pets and people.
How much does it costs?
The program is priced at 79,000 won (about $57) for one person and one dog, 119,000 won for two people with one dog, and 159,000 won for two people with two dogs.
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