Won-Buddhism of
Los Angeles
Teachers & Staff
Ven. Yultawonim
Senior Dharma Master
Rev. You (Hamtawonim)
Head Minister
Western District Chief
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Rev. Yeowon
English Program Lead
Western District Secretary
Ven. Yultawonim
Senior Dharma Master
Ven. Yultawonim began her ministry in 1970 as a research assistant at the Research Center of Religions, Wonkwang University, where she developed a deep interest in the teachings and their practical application. She later gained administrative experience at the Central Headquarters of Won-Buddhism. She earned her B.A. and M.A. in Won-Buddhist studies from Wonkwang University and its Graduate School.
Her connection with Won-Buddhism of Los Angeles began in 1995, when she served as Head Minister and Western District Chief. Over 12 years, she led the community, including relocating the temple to its current building, and played a key role in establishing several Won-Buddhist temples throughout the Western District.
After returning to Korea, she continued her ministry for 18 years. During this period,
she also served as a member of the Supreme Council of Won-Buddhism.
In 2023, she was honored with the title of Cardinal Master (Jongsa).
She later served as Senior Dharma Master of the Yeonggwang International Mind Training Center, contributing to spiritual education and guidance.
Eighteen years after leaving Los Angeles, in 2025, she returned as Senior Dharma Master of Won-Buddhism of Los Angeles. In this role, she continues to guide the community as a spiritual mentor and teacher. Through lectures, Dharma talks, and personal guidance,
she helps practitioners navigate the path of study and practice while fostering understanding, personal growth, and the living practice of Won-Buddhism.
Rev. You (Hahmtawonim)
Head Minister | Western District Chief
Sung-Wook You began her journey as an Won-Buddhist minister at Won-Buddhism of Guro (Seoul) and holds a B.A. in Won-Buddhist studies from Wonkwang University as well as a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Dongguk University Graduate School.
In 1995, she started serving at Won-Buddhism of Los Angeles, where she dedicated 12 years to strengthening the community. During those early and challenging years, she played a vital role in supporting the temple’s growth, including preparing and selling traditional Korean food to help establish its foundation.
After returning to Korea, she continued her ministry by leading temples, where she oversaw renovations, expansions, and the revitalization of temple facilities, ensuring that they became thriving spaces for practice and community life.
Eighteen years later, in 2025, she returned to Los Angeles to serve as Head Minister of Won-Buddhism of Los Angeles and Western District Chief. Throughout her ministry,
Rev. You has devoted herself wholeheartedly to bringing peace and comfort to the hearts of the people. Her warm smile and exceptional culinary skills have provided solace and a sense of belonging to everyone who visits the temple.
Her compassionate leadership and nurturing spirit have made the community a place of peace and warmth.
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Rev. Yeowon
English Program Lead | Western District Secretary
Yeowon Jo majored in Won-Buddhism at Youngsan University of Sŏn Studies, Korea (B.A.) and the Won Institute of Graduate Studies in Pennsylvania (M.A.).
She embarked on her journey as an ordained devotee in 2022.
From 2023 to 2024, she served at the Won Dharma Center (Claverack, New York),
and since 2025, she has been serving at Won-Buddhism of Los Angeles.
During her tenure as a high school teacher in Korea, Yeowon recognized the detrimental impact of an exam-focused education system on students' well-being.
Her attendance at the Seoul Citizen's Meditation Center introduced her to the inspiring
Won Study Human Nature Education Program, rooted in Won-Buddhist principles.
As a mentor, she witnessed students’ remarkable transformations—from self-doubt to
self-belief—guiding them toward the pursuit of their grand dreams.
Yeowon holds a deep reverence for the lineage of accomplished masters in Won-Buddhism, whose profound teachings have left an indelible mark on her heart and shaped her spiritual journey. Through these experiences, she has come to wholeheartedly recognize the great Way of Il-Won as a beacon of hope and a guiding path for individuals, families, businesses, society, the nation, and the future of the world.