Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) is gaining international recognition.
Recently, the members of Wonkwang University and Won-Buddhism in South Korea arrived in the country and collaborated with the Bhutanese counterpart and engaged in aptly titled conference “The Theory and Policy of Happiness.”
The two countries exchanged similar ideologies on striving for the ultimate purpose of happiness. Participants from Wonkwang University and Won-Buddhism expressed their appreciation to Bhutan for considering the value of happiness for its people as the key policy of the country.
“Bhutan being the small country and strong in its philosophy considers all its people’s happiness as the highest virtue,” said the Executive Director of Won-Buddhism, Rev. Hahn Eun Sook. “It’s very similar to the teachings of our Master of Won-Buddhism.”
Won-Buddhism, the guiding principle of the Wonkwang University also considers in bringing peace and happiness. Won-Buddhism was founded in 1916 and operates over 600 temples including 50 temples overseas. And it also operates around 300 institutions in the fields of education and medicines.
The South Korean team expressed their mutual interest in research and collaboration in the future. The workshop was coordinated by HY Kim, the Honorary Consul General of South Korea to Bhutan.