Abstract

The emergence and development of Daesoon Jinrihoe in the late 19th century on the Korean Peninsula have placed it as a significant modern religious tradition in contemporary Korea. In consideration of its origin, roots of Daesoon Jinrihoe are found to be tightly connected to both the formal and material contents of diverse Eastern and Western religious traditions. The purpose of the current study is to explore the social background of Daesoon Jinrihoe and unveil its strong bond and relationships with other world religions and systems of philosophical thought. Additionally, it seeks to examine the distinctive features of Daesoon Jinrihoe, assessing whether it remains as a New Religion or has already qualified its status as an established religious tradition, akin to major world religions. In terms of research methodology, this study employs a discourse analysis approach within a qualitative research framework. Secondary sources are utilized extensively, supplemented by primary sources that are necessary and mandatory for a comprehensive understanding.