Hae Kwang Sunim started training at the age of 18 in Thailand. He took full seminary and temple training in S. Korea, with graduated ordinations (including Bhikkhu ordination) under Patriarch Kun Sunim.

He spent over 25 years distilling the Inner Peace Qigong (IPQ), deepest and hardest to grasp teachings, into a simplified language so it can be taught and effectively applied directly in daily life. In 2005 (2549), the 19th Headquarters in Korea appointed Venerable Hae Kwang Sunim as Director of Bo Kwang Zen Center Palm Springs, U.S.A. In 2013, the Western Bhikkhus Council nominated Hae Kwang Sunim 교구장 Kyo Goo Jahng of all American-European Temples (closest English translation: North American-European Oversight Head / Bishop / Director).

Hae Kwang Sunim drew from the most effective mind-body teachings he acquired from studying under different teachers in the East, including the teachings of Wat Bua Luang in Thailand. Part of the methodology is based on the ancient Eastern principles of Hai Palung (Energy Healing), Mind-Body Healing Qigong, Pon Klie Kwan Sow (Emotional Release), Meditation, Food-Based Healing and the importance of compassion, gratitude, oneness, outreach and the need to support the whole person holistically — Body, Mind and Spirit.