Lotus Lantern Festival 2025 Illuminates Seoul with Harmony

Lotus Lantern Festival Parade Returns to Light Up Jongno and Gwanghwamun

Designated as both a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and a National Intangible Cultural Property, the Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe) will take place over two days from April 26 to 27, bringing light and harmony to the heart of Seoul.

Under the slogan “Lotus Lantern Festival, Brightening Hearts and the World—A Time That Unites Us All,” this year’s event will unfold across Jogyesa Temple, Jongno Street, and Gwanghwamun Plaza, featuring large-scale lantern parades, traditional cultural experiences, and vibrant performances.

The festival traces its roots back to ancient Buddhist rituals: Gandeung during the Unified Silla period, Yeondeunghoe in Goryeo, and Gwandeungnori in the Joseon era.

Although the festival’s form has evolved over time, its core spirit—illuminating the world with wisdom and compassion—remains unchanged. Its cultural significance was globally recognized in 2020 when it was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Festivities begin on Saturday, April 26, with the “Eoullim Madang” (Unity Ground) held around Jogyesa Temple.

At 7:00 PM, the highlight Lantern Parade will light up the streets with a majestic procession of lanterns symbolizing peace, happiness, and hope.

The celebration continues with the “Daedong Hanmadang”, a joyful gathering where participants join hands, dance, and share in festive delight.

On Sunday, April 27, from 11:00 AM, the Traditional Culture Zone and Performance Zone offer hands-on activities such as lantern making, temple cuisine tasting, traditional motif painting, and more.

The festival closes with “Yeondeung Nori”, an interactive finale held in Insa-dong where crowds dance and celebrate together in a final wave of unity and joy.

Additionally, the Traditional Lantern Exhibition will run from April 16 to May 6, with beautifully crafted lanterns illuminating the temple grounds and surrounding areas each night.

All programs are free to attend, and detailed schedules are available through the official website and Instagram account (@lotuslanternfestival).

The event is organized by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and the Lotus Lantern Festival Preservation Committee, who expressed hopes that the festival will offer “a moment of connection, joy, and warmth for everyone who participates.”

perience Korea’s royal legacy under the stars, combining ritual, artistry, and heritage into an unforgettable cultural moment.

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🎒 Natural Note

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