This study is based on a review of literature related to youth, youth activities, and religion. Buddhist programs for youths are inclusive of all youth activity programs organized with a Buddhist theme.
This study researches ways to propagate Buddhism through youth programs. It proposes various Buddhist programs such as temple stays, Buddhist meditation, Buddhist volunteer activities, Buddhist club activities, volunteer activities through the leading Buddhist youth club paramita and the Council of Youth Organizations in Korea, exchange activities, and creative hands-on activities. In combination with activities offered by area youth training centers and after-school programs, these programs can offer teenagers an opportunity to enjoy better quality leisure time. Buddhist temples should actively seek these programs to pave the way for propagation of Buddhism among the young population. Propagation of Buddhism can be revitalized in the following ways: first, youth-related departments should be set up in schools established by religions in order to nurture Buddhist leaders with Buddhist knowledge to professionally develop and guide these programs.
Second, temples and training centers should regularly offer temple stays, Buddhist meditation, and Buddhist youth volunteer activity programs for Buddhist propagation and humanistic education among youths.
Third, temples should actively establish and support youth propagation policies to hospitably invite youths into the world of Buddhism.
Fourth, a network should be created to enable various Buddhist youth volunteer activities to be executed through a single server and offer greater access to Buddhist volunteer programs.
Fifth, continuous development and diffusion of an educational system that can enhance the educational competence of Buddhist monks to guide youngsters is urgently needed.
Sixth, to guarantee a seamless implementation of these programs, the Buddhist religious order should gather the opinions of educational experts and leaders to establish the relevant policies and offer the necessary financial support.