In this study we aimed to develop a character education program for youths, test the effects of the program, and navigate the applicability of the developed program which is ‘SimSimPuli M3(meta-mind meditation).’ According to the development procedure of a structured program, we set a target age, and proposed a theoretical model through advanced research review, on-site inspections, and expert consultation. We organized primary programs based on this model and then corrected these programs through field expert’s assessment and instructor’s workshop. The program was performed at with a total of 427 students at 16 secondary schools. We surveyed 125 students (79, high school students and 31, middle school students) at 5 schools, and analysed the questionnaires of the SimSimPuli M3 programs and the meditation records according to our standardized curriculum. Firstly, we conducted a t-test individually to examine the change between before and after students completed the program. Secondly we analysed the meditation records and assessment meeting minutes to investigate the quality effects of the programs. Results suggested that the ‘SimSimPuli M3’ program improved students’ emotional intelligence, changed student mindsets, and increased gratitude-based actions. In addition, according to a qualitative analysis of students’ meditation records, about 80 percent of students experienced a positive change through meditation. In this regard, we can say that the ‘SimSimPuli M3’ programs have a applicability to regular schools as well as schools affiliated with Won-Buddhism, for youth character education programs.