About us

Our practice is, moment by moment, to return to our original nature as it is before thinking arises. Our founding teacher, Zen Master Seung Sahn, very simply called it “Don’t Know.” This means, in each moment to open unconditionally to all that presents itself to us, perceive clearly and act with our natural compassion and wisdom to benefit all beings.

The Zen centers of the Kwan Um School of Zen around the world offer training in Zen meditation through meditation instruction, morning and evening meditation practice, public talks, Koan interviews, retreats and workshops. Our programs are open to anyone regardless of previous experience.

The School’s purpose is to make this practice of Zen as accessible as possible. It is our wish to help human beings find their true direction and to help this world.

Website Kwan Um School of Zen Europe »
Website Kwan Um School of Zen International »

The Kwan Um School of Zen Austria was founded 1994 and is a non-profit organization (Koreanische Zen Gemeinschaft) and as such financed by donations and contributions of its members. Membership entitles one to reduced rates for retreats and other Zen Center events for the Kwan Um School of Zen world-wide.

The Kwan Um Zen School is an officially registered order of the Austrian Buddhist Union (ÖBR).