Understanding the Lotus Lantern Festival Seoul: History, Meaning, and Celebrations
The Lotus Lantern Festival Seoul is one of South Korea’s most vibrant and culturally rich celebrations. Held annually to commemorate Buddha’s birthday, the festival lights up the entire city of Seoul with colorful lotus-shaped lanterns. It blends religious devotion with festive joy, attracting countless visitors from both home and abroad, making it a perfect window into Korean Buddhist culture.
What is the Lotus Lantern Festival?
Known in Korean as Yeondeunghoe, the Lotus Lantern Festival has a history spanning over a thousand years. The lotus lantern symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in Buddhism. During the festival, thousands of lotus lanterns illuminate the streets, representing the “light of wisdom dispelling darkness” and expressing reverence and blessings to Buddha.
Historical Origins
The festival traces back to the Silla Dynasty (57 BCE – 935 CE), when lantern lighting ceremonies were held to honor Buddha’s birthday. Over time, the festival evolved from temple rituals into a large-scale citywide celebration, incorporating parades, folk activities, and community participation.
Main Events and Traditions
- Making and Lighting Lotus Lanterns: People handcraft or purchase elaborately decorated lotus lanterns to light up streets and homes, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
- Lantern Parade: The nighttime parade is the festival’s highlight, featuring thousands of lotus lanterns accompanied by traditional music and dances winding through Seoul’s streets, creating a lively and sacred mood.
- Temple Ceremonies: Buddhist temples hold prayer services inviting devotees and visitors to pray for peace and happiness.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional music, dance, and theater performances enrich the cultural experience of the festival.
Modern Development and Significance
Today, the Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul is not only a religious event but also a cultural tourism highlight. By incorporating modern lighting technologies and interactive experiences, the festival enhances visual effects and visitor engagement. It continues to preserve Buddhist culture while showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity in Korea.
This article is shared by parklightshow.com, dedicated to promoting global lantern festivals and lighting art innovation.
Post time: Jun-27-2025