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ABSTRACT
The present study aims to determine the underlying factors critical to the overall satisfaction (Templestay satisfaction) of local and foreign participants in South Korean Buddhist temple stay programs (hereafter, Templestay). A two-step multivariate procedure was performed where the data were first subjected to a factor analysis followed by structural equation model. The findings are congruent with three out of five research hypotheses. Moreover, the empirical evidence showed that there are no differences in reporting of Templestay satisfaction between Korean and international participants. Nevertheless, being with nature, self-growth, and relaxation are underlying factors that define satisfaction for Koreans. For international participants, being with nature and relaxation are significant. The study reveals that learning experience is a poor predictor of Templestay satisfaction. The practical implication of this research is that Templestay managers should focus on the factors that have the highest importance for obtaining Templestay satisfaction for both Korean and international visitors.