A lotus lantern parade, a highlight of celebrations for the birthday of Buddha, took place along the main Jongno street - from Dongdaemun to Jogye-sa Temple - in central Seoul from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on May 11. The annual event featuring illuminated lotus flowers, stupas, elephants, dragons and other types of lanterns attracted large crowds.
According to Buddhism, the lighting of lotus-shaped lanterns symbolizes a display of religious devotion to perform good deeds and lighting up the dark parts of the world that are filled with agony.
At 10 a.m. on May 17, a traditional Buddhist ritual will be held at Jogye-sa Temple and other temples nationwide, the organizers said.
In Korea, Buddha's Birthday is a national holiday.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments