Buddha’s Birthday — Lanterns, Temples, and the Light of Peace in Korea
Every spring, Korea glows with the light of thousands of lanterns as people celebrate Buddha’s Birthday (부처님 오신 날). Known as Seokga Tanshinil, this sacred day honors the birth of the Buddha and the teachings of compassion and peace. For travelers, it’s one of the most visually stunning and spiritually uplifting times to visit Korea — when cities, temples, and mountain trails illuminate with lotus lanterns symbolizing enlightenment. 🌸
1️⃣ The Meaning of Buddha’s Birthday in Korea
Celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, Buddha’s Birthday marks the day Siddhartha Gautama was born. In Korea, it’s a national holiday celebrated by both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. The lotus flower — rising pure from the muddy water — represents spiritual awakening and purity of heart. During this time, temples across the country open their doors, inviting everyone to join in the rituals, regardless of faith or background. It’s a festival of peace, reflection, and shared humanity.
2️⃣ Yeondeunghoe — The Lotus Lantern Festival
One of Korea’s most beautiful celebrations, Yeondeunghoe (연등회), is a lantern parade held in Seoul and designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The streets near Jogyesa Temple and Insadong transform into a river of light, as thousands of participants carry lanterns shaped like lotus flowers, dragons, elephants, and Buddhas. The glowing procession winds through downtown Seoul, accompanied by chanting monks, music, and joyful cheers. Travelers can join the parade or make their own lantern at festival booths — a memorable way to take part in a centuries-old Korean tradition.
| Event | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Yeondeunghoe Parade | Seoul (Jogyesa–Dongguk Univ.) | Thousands of lanterns lighting the streets |
| Lantern Exhibition | Cheonggyecheon & Jogyesa | Giant themed lantern displays |
| Temple Rituals | Nationwide | Offerings, prayers, and tea ceremonies |
3️⃣ Jogyesa Temple — The Heart of Celebration in Seoul
In central Seoul, Jogyesa Temple becomes the epicenter of celebration. Its courtyard is filled with vibrant paper lanterns hanging from colorful strings, creating a dreamlike canopy above visitors. Locals and travelers alike offer flowers and light candles while monks chant sutras. Visitors can also try “lantern-making workshops” or enjoy temple food tastings in nearby areas. Even at night, the temple glows like a living painting — a must-visit for anyone wanting to see how Korea blends spirituality with beauty.
4️⃣ Temple Offerings and Rituals
Buddha’s Birthday in Korea focuses on compassion, humility, and gratitude. Temples host Bathing the Baby Buddha rituals — where participants pour water or tea over a small Buddha statue, symbolizing cleansing and blessings. Visitors may also light lotus candles, make wishes, or meditate quietly. For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, temple stay programs offer overnight stays with monks, meditation sessions, and vegetarian meals — a perfect retreat from busy urban life.
- 🪷 Bathing Buddha Ritual — Symbol of purification and new beginnings.
- 🕯️ Lantern Lighting — Spreading light and compassion to the world.
- 🍵 Temple Food — Balanced, plant-based meals that embody Buddhist simplicity.
5️⃣ Major Temples to Visit During Buddha’s Birthday
From the mountains of Gyeongju to the heart of Seoul, Korea’s temples offer breathtaking settings during this festival. Here are some must-visit spots for travelers:
- Jogyesa Temple (Seoul) — Lanterns canopy over the heart of the city.
- Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju) — A UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by blooming lotus ponds.
- Tongdosa Temple (Yangsan) — One of Korea’s Three Jewel Temples, famous for relics of the Buddha.
- Haeinsa Temple (Hapcheon) — Home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a symbol of Buddhist scholarship.
6️⃣ The Message of Peace and Harmony
Beyond religious meaning, Buddha’s Birthday in Korea reflects universal values of peace, mindfulness, and coexistence. The warm glow of each lantern represents a wish — for love, forgiveness, and hope. Foreign visitors often describe the experience as both visually spectacular and emotionally healing. In a world moving fast, this ancient festival reminds everyone to pause, breathe, and share light.
7️⃣ How to Experience It as a Traveler
To join the celebrations, plan your trip between late April and May (lunar calendar). Start at Jogyesa Temple for the main lantern parade, then visit Bongeunsa near COEX or Gyeongju Bulguksa for a quieter, scenic experience. Many temples welcome visitors to join rituals and light candles freely. For photographers, the best time is evening — when the entire temple grounds glow like a galaxy of peace. No matter your belief, Buddha’s Birthday in Korea offers a moment of reflection and shared humanity. 🪷✨
