South Korea has designated Buddhist temple cuisine as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage to preserve and promote its sustainable culinary traditions [1].
The designation reflects a growing international interest in spiritual eating habits and serves as a tool for cultural diplomacy. As global consumers seek alternatives to industrial food systems, the practice offers a model of mindfulness and environmental sustainability.
Officials announced the heritage designation on Nov. 26, 2025 [2]. The move follows a period of increased visibility for the cuisine between 2024 and 2025, as female Buddhist monks and cultural officials worked to bring these practices to international audiences [1].
Temple food is characterized by its reliance on natural ingredients and the absence of pungent vegetables, which are believed to disturb mental stability. The practice emphasizes the connection between the eater and the earth, a philosophy that has resonated with a modern audience facing climate concerns.
"Temple Cuisine has grabbed the attention of those looking for simpler, more spiritual ways of eating," Kim Chan-ju said [3].
The promotion of these culinary arts involves both domestic preservation and global outreach. By formalizing the status of temple food, South Korea aims to ensure that the specific techniques and spiritual philosophies behind the meals are passed down to future generations [1].
This revival is not merely about nutrition but about the act of preparation as a form of meditation. The movement seeks to transition the perception of temple food from a niche religious practice to a globally recognized sustainable culture [1].
“Temple Cuisine has grabbed the attention of those looking for simpler, more spiritual ways of eating.”
The official heritage status elevates temple food from a religious tradition to a state-backed cultural asset. By framing the cuisine through the lens of sustainability and mindfulness, South Korea is leveraging its 'soft power' to appeal to global trends in wellness and environmentalism, positioning its spiritual traditions as solutions to modern industrial stressors.
