My Korea Buddha‘s birthday experience

Buddha's birthday is very special day for me. Because It is big festival for Buddhists. Buddhism is one of Korea's well known religion.

Although I am a Catholic, I still enjoy Buddha's birthday. Last year, I went to Samkwangsa during Buddha's birthday. Samkwangsa is a very famous Buddhist temple. For example United States' CNN broadcasting selected Samkwangsa as one of Korea's beautiful places. When I arrived there, Samkwangsa had lantern festival . There were many people. Samkwangsa had decorated many lanterns. That day is lantern festival's last day so it is at its peak. Another feature I like is the solemn temple mood.

For me, Buddha's birthday is somehow different with Christmas celebration. In the case of Christmas, it is like a festival. Every people just enjoy that day. But during Buddha's, people worship Buddha. So many Buddhist monks are enthusiastic to worship Buddha. In the evening, when the Sky becomes dark, lanterns are everywhere. Monk's spearhead the festival celebration. It is both a festive and serious event. I think that's one of the difference with Christmas day.

Editor's note (Lotus Lantern festival write up and photos courtesy of Abigail Go):

Here are some photos from the recently concluded 2012 Lotus Lantern Festival. The Lotus Lantern Festival in Korea was held last May 19 to 20. An opening ceremony was held in Dongguk University where all the Buddhist temples showcased their lanterns and had performances shown to the public. Numerous participants flocked the area - the young and aged, even the disabled and special people took part in the event. Afterwards, all the participants walked their way from Dongguk University all the way to Jongno-samga where the lantern parade took place. It was a festive celebration, full of colors and wonderful performances. Locals and foreigners alike witnessed this eventful celebration. Below are some of the photos taken during the 2 hour long parade ^^