Thousands of South Koreans gathered in Seoul for the annual Lotus Lantern Festival in anticipation of Buddha’s birthday. Despite the rain, around 50,000 people were expected to attend the festival, which has been celebrated for over 1,000 years and was recently recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The festival aims to spread the enlightenment of Buddhism worldwide through various events and activities.
The festival began at Seoul’s Dongguk University, where thousands of people started a parade towards the Jogyesa Temple. At the temple, colorful lanterns were hung to form the message: “It’s peaceful just the way it is.” Festival-goers, dressed in raincoats, carried illuminated pink lotus lanterns and flowers, while others showcased Buddhist-themed floats featuring baby Buddhas, mythical deities, and animals like tigers, elephants, and dragons. The parade also included floats with popular cartoon characters.
Buddha’s birthday, a national holiday in South Korea, is celebrated on Wednesday with various events at temples and parks. Many temples offer free meals and tea to visitors, while festivities include traditional games and art performances. The Lotus Lantern Festival adds to the celebrations, with different lantern parades and cultural displays. The festival aims to educate people about the teachings of Buddhism through visual representations and symbolic gestures.
The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of South Korea and the significance of Buddhism in the country. The colorful lanterns and floats represent different aspects of Buddhist beliefs and practices, creating a festive atmosphere for participants and spectators. The event attracts people of all ages and backgrounds, bringing together the community to celebrate an important religious and cultural occasion. The festival’s UNESCO recognition highlights its importance in preserving and promoting traditional customs and beliefs.
Despite the rainy weather, the spirit of the festival was not dampened as participants continued to participate in the various activities and enjoy the vibrant displays. The festival serves as a reminder of the values of peace, harmony, and enlightenment that Buddhism promotes, encouraging people to reflect on these teachings in their own lives. The Lotus Lantern Festival remains a cherished tradition in South Korea, embodying the country’s cultural identity and religious heritage. The annual event continues to unite people in celebration and education about Buddhism.
