Mireuksa, also known as Maitreya Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple located in Iksan city, North Jeolla Province, South Korea. The temple was constructed in 602 during the Baekje Kingdom period, under the direction of King Mu. It was originally built as a royal temple to enshrine a statue of Maitreya, a bodhisattva who is regarded as the future Buddha. The temple was designed in the traditional Baekje style of architecture, with a pagoda at the front and a wooden hall at the back.
The temple complex was expanded during the Unified Silla period, in the 7th and 8th centuries. During this time, many additional buildings were added to the complex, including a three-story pagoda, a lecture hall, and several smaller shrines. The temple was also surrounded by a stone wall for protection.
Mireuksa played an important role in the spread of Buddhism in Korea. It was one of the largest and most prestigious temples of the Baekje Kingdom, and it attracted many Buddhist scholars and practitioners. The temple was also known for its large collection of Buddhist scriptures and other religious artifacts.