Its main hall is South Korea's oldest wooden building, having been constructed by Goryeo in 1308.

Considering the fact that a number of Baekje-era roof tiles have been found there, it seems most likely that the temple originated in the Baekje era.

No particular records of Sudeoksa Temple from the Goryeo era remain, but a "ridge beam scroll," discovered during repairs reveals that the Main Buddha Hall was established in 1308.

It is said to have been renovated by Seon Master Naong Hyegeun in the latter part of the 14th century and Joseon era records state that the Main Buddha Hall was renovated in 1528 during the reigns of King Yeongjo and King Sunjo.

Hyewol went to Busan and established a lineage that transmitted the Dharma to monks Unbong Seongsu, Hyanggok Hyerim and Jinje Beobwon.

Hanam went to Woljeongsa Temple and established the Odaesan Lineage that transmitted the Dharma to monks Tanheo Taekseong, Bogyeong Huitae, and Manhwa Huichan.

Mangong remained at Sudeoksa and cultivated outstanding disciples such as Bowol Seongin, Yongeum Beopcheon, Byeokcho Gyeongseon, Hyeam Hyeonmun and Gobong Gyeonguk.

At present, Sudeoksa Temple is home to Deoksung Chongnim, one of five major comprehensive training complexes of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

Of all Sudeoksa Temple's cultural heritage items, foremost is its Main Buddha Hall (National Treasure No.

Inscribed on it are the words “King Gongmin’s Lute (恭愍王琴),” carved by Yi Jo-muk, a renowned calligrapher and painter of the late Joseon era, and a poem by Master Mangong.

Mangong on which is written the passage, “The whole world is a single flower.” The stupa is designated Registered Cultural Heritage No.