Yun, Seung-yong. "Formation, Unfolding and Prospect of New Religion in Korea." Journal of New Religions 15 (Oct. 2006): 109-144. 136-152.
Abstract
The main purpose of this
research is to have a systemic view
of new religions, focusing upon the understanding
and trend
of various religions. The first part leads to the background of
formation,
unfolding and historic meaning of new religious. The second part introduces five big new religions and
explains their own tradition and roots. The third part covers the problems and assignment of new religions in the
future.
New religionsbelieve that Chosun (朝鮮) is the central country throughout the world and that post-cosmic creation would be present on earth in the pursuit of new ideal world. It is distinguished from the view of world (China centrism, 華 夷論) in the earlier period of modernity. In addition, aiming at establishing paradise on earth, they have a people-oriented worldview of nationalism to overcome the national crisis and the socio-reformational understanding. In the long run they have a higher valuation in the process of transformation and modernization. In short, new religions are named as one of representative cultural heritage and thoughts. We can find new religions historically meaningful. In particular, they subjectively accepted the present socio-reformational problems, confronting to the so-called “the practical living-based modern religions.”
Each religion has its own characteristics in both dogma and practice. Cheondogyo (천도교), the beginner of new religion, has more or less confucianistic element. Jungsangyo (증산교) is in some parts recognized as Sinsun (Shamanism). Won-buddhism (원불교) is the practical living-based Buddhism. Daejonggyo (대종교) is based on the originated beliefs in respect of the nation’s founder. Tongilgyo (통일교) is realized in Korean view of Christianity.
They are all progressive in the process of being a practical living-based religions for the people, succeeding to the tradition and format of classicism religion. After the 1960’s and in the globalization and an information-oriented society, they have not become progressive, compared with other religious orders.
Concerning national
energy through the salvation of people
from suffering and the cultural heritage, we can think highly of the
potential
power of new religions. In recent days, they are less progressive of
enlightening truth. But we’re looking forward to playing the important
role of
new religions for strong foundation of south-north