Every year since 2009, with different themes, the center of Seoul on the water comes alive with wonderful illuminated works of art, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere that warms the heart of every visitor. The theme of Lanterns is one of the subjects that Koreans love very much, in fact there are two big events in Korea which see parades and demonstrations with these masterpieces of light at two different times, in addition to the Lantern Festival in November, on May 5th Buddha's birthday is celebrated, the Yeoundeoughoe, which involves thousands of lotus lanterns parading through the streets of Korean cities, but the largest and most sumptuous parade is held in Seoul, from Yeouido to the Temple of Jeogyesa, which comes alive with thousands of lanterns of lights in the streets.
The Lantern Festival was created to symbolize good luck and a bright future. Historically in the past, lanterns were lit to accompany and guide the spirits and give them a sense of peace and tranquility during the winter season which is notoriously cold and dark.
The origins of the Lantern Festival date back several centuries, when lanterns were used during the Buddhist period to illuminate temples and streets, symbolizing the light of wisdom that dispels the darkness of ignorance. Over time, this event has become a cultural celebration that combines traditional and contemporary elements.
The Lantern Festival in Seoul is typically held in November. During this time, the Cheonggyecheon, the beautiful and romantic urban stream that runs through the center of the city, transforms into a fairy-tale path dotted with hundreds of lanterns of various shapes and sizes, each telling a unique story. The event lasts about two weeks and also includes cultural shows, artistic workshops and interactive activities for visitors of all ages, with the possibility of purchasing a lantern and hanging it under the river bridges, as a symbol of good luck and auspicious thoughts.
This festival not only celebrates the beauty and art of lanterns, but also represents an opportunity to reflect on peace and harmony, values strongly present in Korean society. To build lanterns for the Lotus Festival in South Korea, traditional techniques that combine craftsmanship and creativity are used. Lanterns are generally made from rice paper and bamboo, which are light and resistant materials. The process begins with the creation of a bamboo frame, carefully shaped into the desired shape. Next, the frame is covered with layers of rice paper, hand-painted with symbolic patterns and bright colors representing different aspects of Korean culture and spirituality. Finally, the lanterns are lit with candles or small bulbs, ready to create plays of light reflected on the water during the festival. The care taken in the creation of each lantern makes this event a unique visual and spiritual experience
Over time, the use of lanterns has evolved from a simple practical necessity to an elaborate symbol of art and culture. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the lantern festival began to transform into a more structured and culturally significant event. It was an occasion to celebrate unity and peace, fundamental values in Korean society.
Lanterns, often representing Buddhist symbols or historical figures, became tools of artistic and spiritual expression. Over the centuries, the festival has been enriched with new symbols and forms that recall Korean culture and tradition.
Here are some of the most significant symbols that can be found during the event:
- Light of Wisdom: The lanterns themselves are the main symbol of the festival, representing the light of wisdom that dispels the darkness of ignorance. This concept is deeply rooted in Buddhism and is reflected in the luminous beauty of lanterns.
- Peace and Harmony: Many lanterns and art installations are designed to symbolize the values of peace and harmony. These values are central to Korean culture and are celebrated through lantern art that unites people of different backgrounds and cultures.
- Buddhist symbols: Lanterns often include Buddhist symbols such as the lotus flower, which represents purity and spiritual enlightenment. These symbols serve as a reminder of the spiritual roots of the festival.
- Historical and Mythological Figures: Some lanterns depict Korean historical figures or mythological characters, telling stories of the past and celebrating the country's cultural heritage.
- Symbolic Animals: Lanterns can also represent symbolic animals such as the dragon, which is associated with strength and protection, or the crane, a symbol of longevity and good luck.
These symbols, integrated into the spectacular displays of lanterns, contribute to making the Lantern Festival in Seoul a unique and significant event, rich in cultural and spiritual meaning, as already mentioned before, it is a light in the darkness that helps to defeat the darkness and cold of the long Korean winter, to bring the right warmth and sense of harmony through these creations. Today, it is a celebration that combines tradition and modernity. Every year, thousands of visitors gather to admire the spectacular lantern displays that light up the city. This event not only celebrates the art of lanterns, but also represents a moment of reflection on the values of peace and harmony, which continue to be at the heart of Korean culture.
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Paola Pelissa