‘Do You Know Why I, a Monk, Run 30,000km and Play Park Golf?’ [Yang Jong-gu’s 100-Year Health Method]

Known by nicknames such as the 'Running Monk,' 'Iron Monk,' or 'Park Golf Monk,' Jin Oh, the 63-year-old chief monk at Mahabodhi Temple in Gumi, South Korea, embodies a philosophy of active living and compassionate service. His journey, marked by significant personal challenges, has shaped a life dedicated to both physical well-being and aiding those in need.

A pivotal moment in Jin Oh's life occurred in 1987 during his service as an Air Force chaplain. A traffic accident resulted in the loss of vision in his left eye, a life-altering event that prompted a profound reevaluation of his path. While his decision to become a monk in high school was his first major turning point, the accident served as a second, defining moment, setting the direction for his spiritual and social mission.

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I decided to be reborn. Then I started seeing the suffering people around me.

During his recovery at the Armed Forces Capital Hospital, Jin Oh grappled with despair. However, witnessing the immense suffering of fellow soldiers, particularly one who maintained hope despite losing both legs, deeply impacted him. This realization spurred a personal transformation, a 'rebirth,' as he describes it. He resolved to dedicate himself to helping others, shifting his focus outward to the needs of the vulnerable.

This renewed purpose led Jin Oh to engage actively with society, particularly by supporting marginalized groups. He found that even with a significant visual impairment, he gained a new perspective on the world and the people in it. His dedication to running marathons and playing park golf are not just personal pursuits but extensions of his philosophy, maintaining physical health while actively contributing to the well-being of the community and inspiring others through his resilience and commitment.

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Losing one eye, I gained eyes to see society.