* Detailed program information subject to change.

The Yeon Deung Hoe (Lotus Lantern Festival) is an annual event that colors Korea with bright lanterns in celebration of the birth of Buddha. Started as a religious festival during the Silla dynasty (57 BC – AD 935), this traditional festival has come to be enjoyed by thousands of people every year, regardless of background, nationality, or religion. In December of 2020, the festival was inscribed on the UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritages of Humanity.

This year’s slogan and theme is “Peace of the Mind, World of the Buddha,” carrying a meaning of peace and comfort after overcoming the troubles the world experienced due to COVID-19.

An overview of the Lotus Lantern Festival

This year sees the return of participation programs and large events post COVID-19. There will also be many small events taking place throughout the nation, so you can enjoy the Lotus Lantern Festival wherever you choose to visit in Korea.

Lantern parade

The highlight of the lotus lantern festival is the lantern parade! The parade starts with the energetic Buddhist Cheer Rally in support of peace before traveling from Heunginjimun Gate to Jogyesa Temple. There are booths located in front of Jongmyo Shrine where visitors can make their own lanterns and join in the parade.

Times
- Buddhist Cheer Rally: 16:30-18:00 on May 20, 2023
- Lantern parade: 19:00-21:30 on May 20, 2023
Venues
- Buddhist Cheer Rally: Dongguk University Stadium
- Lantern parade: Heunginjimun Gate – Jong-ro Avenue – Area around Jogyesa Temple

Exhibition of traditional lanterns

In remembrance of the birth of Buddha, exhibitions of traditional lanterns will be on display for an 18-day period in various parts of Seoul including Ujeong Park near Jogyesa Temple, Bongeunsa Temple and Gwanghamun Square. These exhibitions provide a wonderful opportunity to marvel at the unassuming charm of Korea’s traditional paper, hanji.

Period: May 11-28, 2023
Venues: Areas of Cheonggyecheon Stream, Jogyesa Temple and Gwanghamun Square

Traditional cultural events

Taking place online last year, the traditional culture events have returned to Ujeongguk-ro Street in front of Jogyesa Temple. The experiences are open to visitors young and old, both locals and visitors. Try out a variety of programs, like trying temple foods, making Buddhist art, or visiting a Korean temple through VR.

Time: 12:00-18:00 on May 21, 2023
Venue: Ujeongguk-ro Street in front of Jogyesa Temple

Yeondeungnori (final celebration)

The lantern festival ends with a final, smaller lantern parade stretching from Jogyesa Temple to Insa-dong. At the end of the parade, the different groups each take turns to put on performances in the street, making it a stage accessible to all.

Time: 19:00-21:00 on May 21, 2023
Venue: Areas of Insa-dong and Jogyesa Temple

* This column was last updated in April 2023, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.