This is a branch temple of Baekyangsa Temple, the main temple of the Korean Buddhist Jogye Order 18 Gyogu. Haengeun established the temple in 600 (the first year of Muwang in Baekje). The temple’s name originates from a spring called Yongcheon, which flows under the steps of the main temple.

Legend has it that the spring leads to the Yellow Sea and a dragon lived in it before ascending to heaven. Gakjin renovated the temple in 645 (the 5th year of King Uija) before Gakjeok renovated it in 1275 (King Chungryeol in Goryeo). It was renovated during the reign of King Sejo and King Myeongjong of Joseon Dynasty and grew into a large temple. According to Yongcheonsa Daeungjeon Hyeonpan Dancheongi, as many as 3,000 Buddhist monks stayed in the temple during its heyday.

It was destroyed by fire in 1597 (the 30th year of King Seonjo of Joseon) while Jeongyujaeran took place and renovated in 1600 (the 33rd year of King Seongjo). A new sermon hall was established in 1632 (the 10th year of King Injo).

It was renovated in 1638 (the 16th year of King Injo) and 1705 (the 31st year of King Sukjong) before being renovated in 1938. However, it was destroyed by fire during the Korean War, which took place in 1950. In 1964, along with the accommodation quarters the main temple was rebuilt where Bogwangjeon stood. The main temple was renovated in 1996.