SEOUL, South Korea. Despite the rain, the streets of Seoul were filled with joy and color as thousands gathered for the annual Lotus Lantern Festival, celebrating the upcoming birthday of Buddha.
On Saturday, holding umbrellas and pink paper lotus flowers, festival-goers braved the weather to participate in Yeon Deung Hoe, a tradition that dates back over 1,000 years and was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020. Organizers anticipated a turnout of around 50,000 people for the evening parade, a highlight of the festival featuring an array of illuminated floats.
Starting at Seoul’s Dongguk University, the parade wound its way to Jogyesa Temple, where thousands of colorful lanterns adorned the grounds, forming the phrase “It’s peaceful just the way it is,” visible from the air. Participants, dressed in raincoats, carried illuminated pink lotus lanterns and flowers, while others paraded with large, intricate floats depicting baby Buddhas, the Four Heavenly Kings, and mythical creatures like tigers, elephants, and a massive dragon. Even beloved cartoon characters such as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Lucy made an appearance.
“The festival spreads the enlightenment of Buddhism to the world,” said one of the organizers. “It’s a time for reflection and celebration, bringing the community together.”
Buddha’s birthday, which will be celebrated on Wednesday, is a national holiday in South Korea. On this day, many temples offer free meals and tea to visitors, and festivities continue with traditional games and art performances in temple yards and parks.
The Lotus Lantern Festival not only honors Buddhist traditions but also showcases the cultural heritage of South Korea, drawing both locals and tourists to experience the vibrant and spiritual atmosphere of the celebrations.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
