April 22 is Buddha’s Birthday. The day, designated as a national holiday in Korea, is enjoyed in most of East Asia by Buddhists and non-Buddhists, as most of the region is heavily influenced by the religion.

In Korea, people visit Buddhist temples, decorated with countless colorful lanterns, in cities and on mountains. They also try eating temple food, the meals eaten by Buddhist monks.

Just as some stars have been vocal about believing in Christianity, others have revealed that they follow the teachings of Buddha. Here is a list of five stars in Korea who are Buddhists.

1. Suho of EXO

Suho (allure)

The K-pop star said he practices Buddhism on an online broadcast. According to him, his family’s influence was strong.

2. Bam Bam of GOT7

Bam Bam (Ceci)

The rapper, a Thai national, introduced Thai Buddhism to Korean viewers through a variety show. He and his family showed how Thais pray and what the religion means to them. More than 95 percent of Thailand’s population are Buddhist.

3. Max Changmin of TVXQ

Max Changmin (Grazia)

Max Changmin revealed his religion through an interview. When asked about what he will do on Christmas day, he answered, “I will go to a temple, as I am a Buddhist.”

4. Park Hyung-sik

Park Hyung-sik (Elle)

The singer-turned-actor was named by a Buddhist monk. As Park’s mother and grandmother are both Buddhist, they asked the monk to name him.

5. Dok2

Dok2 (Illionaire Record)

The successful rapper repeatedly mentioned his religion on TV shows. Starring in a music TV show, he said he controls his mind with Buddhism, to avoid becoming angry at others. When facing big events in life, Dok2 visits Bongeunsa Temple in southern Seoul.

By Im Eun-byel (silverstar@heraldcorp.com)