Immersive Experience

Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center
Volunteering Program

Experience contemporary Buddhist community living through work-practice, sustainable farming, and mindful daily routines

Program Currently on Hold

We are adjusting our volunteer support systems. Please check back for updates on when applications will reopen.

Duration

Up to 7 days

Location

Dubuk, South Korea

Cost

Free

Eligibility

Dharma School Graduates

About

What is Work-Practice?

The Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center offers volunteers an opportunity to experience contemporary Buddhist community living through work-based practice. Rather than conventional labor, all activities—from farm work to daily maintenance—are framed as spiritual practice opportunities.

The center promotes sustainable living through organic farming and material upcycling, offering practical models for communal sustainability to foster a sustainable and eco-friendly society that benefits all beings. This immersive experience is designed for those who wish to deepen their practice through action and community life.

Watch

Introduction to Dubuk Retreat Center

Activities

Work-Practice Areas

Farm Labor

Engage in seasonal agricultural work as a form of moving meditation and connection with the earth.

Upcycling Warehouse

Practice mindful work in material sorting and creative reuse as part of sustainable living.

Center Maintenance

Contribute to daily upkeep of the retreat center through cleaning, organizing, and general maintenance.

Schedule

Daily Routine

Life at Dubuk Retreat Center follows a structured rhythm designed to cultivate mindfulness through every activity.

4:00 AM Wake Up

→Full day of practice & work→

10:30 PM Lights Out

Practice

Morning & evening chanting and meditation

Work-Practice

Mindful labor during the day

Barugongyang

Traditional Buddhist formal meals

Rest

Early nights for restoration

Schedule may vary slightly depending on seasonal activities and special events.

Experiences

What Volunteers Say

Keiston

The Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center was a special experience that helped me learn about myself. Joining daily activities brought a sense of accomplishment, and practice was key to my understanding. I look forward to returning!

Jude

Staying at the Dubuk Jungto Retreat Center keeps me healthy, with Barugongyang, chanting, and physical work helping me stay present and appreciate the food. The meals, made from farm-fresh vegetables, are especially satisfying, and I look forward to returning with fellow practitioners.

Thao

Deeply inspired by Jungto Society's work, I hope to contribute to the healing and transformation of consciousness. Starting by sharing those practices with those surrounding me. I look forward to joining Jungto's Dharma School and am excited for the upcoming journey in my life.

Guidelines

Rules

Retreat Center Rules

1Daily life follows a structured schedule, including a 4:00 AM wake-up, morning practice, morning and evening chanting, and daily work practice.
2Participation in basic work practice is required for all participants.
3Barugongyang (formal Buddhist meals) is mandatory during the stay.
4Disposable items, including tissues and plastic bags, are not permitted.
5The maximum length of stay is seven days (six nights) per visit.
6Lights out is at 10:30 PM to support the next day's schedule.
7Weekly Dharma Meeting is held on Wednesdays; if your stay includes a Wednesday, please coordinate with us in advance.

Volunteer Living Rules

We follow a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle; shampoo, conditioner, and makeup cleansers are not used. Bath soap is provided.
Please take any large trash home with you when you leave.
Keep your personal space clean and orderly, and return shared items to their designated places after use.

What to Bring

Sleeping bagPrayer cloth (or a handkerchief as a substitute)Work clothesPersonal tumblerTowelToothbrushInsect repellent (for summer)