Monks mark anniversary

Kaesong, North Korea - Marking the 908th anniversary of the death of Jawoon, the monk who founded the Cheontae Order (South Korea's second-largest Buddhist sect), a gathering was held at a temple in Kaesong, North Korea. The ceremony was attended by monks from both the South and North in a continuation of civic exchanges between the nations. South Korean Unification Ministry spokeswoman Lee Jong-joo said, "This shows that inter-Korean exchange and cooperation proceeds in a normal manner." 

The Cheontae Order helped North Korea restore a temple in Kaesong in 2005. Annual joint ceremonies have since been held there by monks from the two sides. Last year, ties between the countries were tense so no ceremony took place. It is hoped that this ceremony will help in restarting the previously established tradition and further peaceful relations between the countries.