In the enchanting tapestry of historical legends, there exists a captivating story of korean connection to ayodhya ram mandir that spans across two ancient lands—Ayodhya in India and Korea.
This tale unfolds some 2,000 years ago when a teenage princess named Suriratna embarked on a remarkable journey across the seas, ultimately marrying King Kim Suro and establishing the Gaya Kingdom in Korea.
Korean Connection to Ayodhya Ram Mandir
Today, around 60 lakh people in South Korea proudly consider themselves descendants of Suriratna, cherishing Ayodhya as their maternal home.
The legend of Suriratna, or Queen Heo Hwang-ok as she became known, remains relatively unknown in India, overshadowed by more familiar narratives. However, for the descendants of the Karak clan in South Korea, Ayodhya holds a special place in their hearts.
The ties between the two regions have become increasingly evident, especially during the recent consecration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir on 22 January 2024.
Many members of the Karak clan make an annual pilgrimage to Ayodhya, paying homage at the Queen Heo Memorial Park, established in 2001 on the banks of the Sarayu River.
This park, spanning over 2,000 square meters, features a meditation hall, pavilions dedicated to Queen Heo and King Kim, pathways, a fountain, murals, and audio-video facilities—all constructed in a distinctive Korean style with tiled sloping roofs.
Also Read: Ayodhya Culture and Heritage: Unraveling Rich Traditions & Festive Marvels
For Kim Chil-su, the secretary general of the Central Karak Clan Society, Ayodhya is not just a city—it’s a grandmother’s home. “Ayodhya is very special to us,” he expresses, “and this time, we plan to go to the new Ram temple too.”
The excitement among the descendants of Suriratna is palpable, fueled by the emotional connection they feel to Ayodhya and the significance of the recently consecrated Ayodhya Ram Mandir.
The Queen Heo Memorial Park serves as a symbolic link between Ayodhya and Korea, embodying the shared history and cultural ties between the two nations.
The pavilions within the park, designed in the Korean architectural style, stand testament to the enduring connection that spans centuries.
In 2015, the relationship between India and South Korea was further solidified when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the expansion of the memorial.
The beautification work, inaugurated in 2018 and attended by South Korean First Lady Kim Jung-sook, marked another chapter in the cultural exchange.
The ties between Ayodhya and Korea go beyond mere legends and have found expression in literature. Indian diplomat N Parthasarathi, who served as ambassador to South Korea, authored a novel based on Suriratna’s life, titled “The Legend of Ayodhya Princess in Korea.”
Also Read: Comprehensive Guide on How to Reach Ayodhya
Translated into Korean as “Bi Dan Hwang Hoo,” the novel gained recognition and was published in Seoul. The National Book Trust of India later released a children’s book inspired by the novel, further contributing to the cultural bridge between the two nations.
As the descendants of Suriratna eagerly plan their visit to Ayodhya to witness the grandeur of the new Ayodhya Ram Mandir, the emotional resonance with their ancestral home remains strong.
The recent online broadcast of the consecration ceremony on January 22 stirred deep emotions among those who couldn’t be physically present but felt connected through the digital medium.
The South Korean embassy, acknowledging the historical significance, congratulated India on the consecration ceremony.
The matrimonial link between Queen Sriratna (Heo Hwang-ok) and King Kim Suro in 48 AD, as mentioned in an ancient Korean history text, “Samguk Yusa,” holds immense symbolic importance for the two nations.
In 2019, India commemorated Queen Heo Hwang-ok by issuing ₹25 and ₹5 postage stamps, emphasizing the cultural and historical ties shared between Ayodhya and Korea.
Also Read: 10 Avatars of Ram Lalla Idol at Ayodhya Ram Mandir
The gesture underlined the mutual respect and recognition of the deep-rooted connection that transcends geographical boundaries.
As the descendants of Suriratna prepare for their upcoming journey to Ayodhya, the story of the Ayodhya princess who crossed the seas to marry their king continues to weave a rich tapestry of cultural exchange and shared heritage.
The Ayodhya Ram Mandir stands not only as a testament to India’s religious and architectural prowess but also as a beacon that beckons those connected through centuries-old ties to come and witness the culmination of a story that spans across continents and generations.
