Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival
The Korean Lotus Lantern Festival is held annually on April 8th (lunar calendar) in honour of Buddha’s Birth where about 22.8% of the population are devoted Buddhists. The festival is preceded by hanging of lotus-shaped lanterns across various public buildings, avenues and homes in and around Seoul for several weeks, and officially kicks off with lighting of the Jangeumdang, a large lantern that symbolizes Buddhism and Buddha’s Birthday, at the Seoul Plaza.
The celebration continues with a wide array of Buddhist programs and activities such as lantern exhibitions, a Buddhist Cheer Rally, a grand lantern parade across the internal central corridors of the city, finally ending with an impressive post-parade celebration in the heart of Seoul. The commercialization of such a festivity brings tourists and locals alike to Seoul’s major landmarks to view and experience these moments, monuments and spaces: all through the colourful lens of vibrancy and a distinct Asian energy. These major landmarks include:
Bongeunsa Buddhist Temple
Joggyesa Buddhist Temple
Gwanghwamun Square
Cheonggyecheon Stream
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