Seoul's Yeondeunghoe Lantern Parade Dazzles with Record Crowds and Robot Monks
Tens of thousands of people filled the streets of central Seoul on Saturday for the annual Yeondeunghoe lantern parade. The event, held ahead of Buddha’s Birthday on May 24, drew around 500,000 participants and spectators—more than last year’s 430,000. The vibrant procession marked the start of a festival recognised by UNESCO and the Korean government as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The parade kicked off at 7 p.m. from Heunginjimun Gate and wound its way to Jogye Temple over roughly two hours. Around 50,000 people, including citizens and major Buddhist groups, carried lanterns through Jongno District. The streets glowed with about 100,000 lanterns, featuring intricate designs such as a recreation of the yeondeungwijang from the Goryeo Dynasty.
This year’s event also included a futuristic twist. Four humanoid robot monks and two autonomous driving robots joined the procession. One of the robots, named Gabi, had previously taken part in a Buddhist ordination ceremony. The festival will continue through Sunday, offering cultural activities and live music performances for visitors.
The Yeondeunghoe lantern parade has grown in popularity, with attendance rising again this year. The festival blends tradition with innovation, from historic lantern displays to robotic participants. Organisers expect the celebrations to remain a highlight of Seoul’s cultural calendar.
