Sri Lanka Tourism, in partnership with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Republic of Korea, is supporting two VVIP South Korean Buddhist delegations currently visiting the country. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural and religious ties between Sri Lanka and South Korea.
The first delegation, comprising the Anunayake Thero of the Jogye Order, South Korean chief Buddhist monks, and 120 devotees, arrived in Sri Lanka on December 1, 2025. Their visit is focused on undertaking a pilgrimage and highlighting Sri Lanka’s significance as a major destination for Buddhists worldwide.
Similarly, the second VVIP Buddhist delegation arrived on December 10, 2025, and received a warm and vibrant welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport. The reception featured a cultural dance troupe and a group of Sri Lankan children greeting the guests. Ms. Thanuja Muniweera, Deputy Director and officer in charge of the Korean Market, was present to welcome the delegation, which included 150 visitors consisting of both priests and devotees.
The delegation is led by Ven. Hyeil, Chief Priest of Haeinsa Temple. The primary aim of the visit is to showcase Sri Lanka as a welcoming and culturally rich destination. This provides a valuable opportunity to promote both Buddhist and pilgrimage tourism, while also emphasizing the growing importance of the Korean market for Sri Lanka.
South Koreans continue to travel in significant numbers, with the delegations in December 2025 serving as a testament to this trend. The visits are expected not only to enhance Buddhist and historical connections between the two countries but also to give a renewed boost to Sri Lanka Tourism. The South Korean market remains a key source of visitors, helping to promote Sri Lanka’s 2,500-year-old Buddhist culture and heritage to the global Buddhist community.
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