National Intangible Cultural Heritage Center: Lotus Lantern Festival (National Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 122)

Buddhism, introduced during the Three Kingdoms period, has long since merged with the local culture, becoming deeply embedded in all aspects of life beyond the religious dimension. The Eighth Day of the Fourth Month, commemorating the birth of Sakyamuni, holds strong significance as a seasonal holiday regardless of religion. The Lotus Lantern Festival held at this time has also continuously evolved into a festival that anyone can participate in and enjoy. Although there have been some ups and downs, the Lotus Lantern Festival has remained established as a national custom since its introduction during the Silla Dynasty, passing through the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties, and continues to this day. Even now, ahead of Buddha's Birthday, temples across the country hang lanterns to prepare for the festival. The Lotus Lantern Festival Preservation Committee also begins preparations several months in advance by crafting paper flowers and lanterns. Organized by voluntary participation that transcends sectarian boundaries, the festival takes on the character of a celebration even during the preparation process. Starting with the lighting ceremony at Gwanghwamun and continuing with the veneration of the Buddha and the lantern procession, the festival concludes with the Buddha's Birthday Celebration Ceremony. The spirit of the Lotus Lantern Festival, which seeks to illuminate the world with lanterns symbolizing light, continues to shine within this universal festival, transcending time and religion. This book captures the process of the preparation and performance of the Lotus Lantern Festival (National Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 122), which integrates tradition and modernity while continuously generating vitality.

Korean title: 연등회(국가무형문화재 제122호)

Korean author: 국립무형유산원

Korean publisher: 민속원

ISBN-13: 9788928510757