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A return to its full scale for the first time in three years.
From brightly lit dragons and peacocks to a model of Buddha himself, South Korea's annual Lotus Lantern Festival graced the streets of downtown Seoul to celebrate Buddha's upcoming 2,566th birthday which falls on May eighth.

"All the antivirus curbs are being lifted. What a delight it is to be out here enjoying the festival."

The traditional event, which has over twelve centuries of history, was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020.
This year's edition was the first time it has been properly held since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the parade to be either canceled or greatly downscaled for the past two years.

"COVID-19 had been so frustrating. I'm so happy I can now hang out with my friends like this."

Tens of thousands of people, both Buddhists and non-Buddhists, took part in the march, illuminating the streets of Jongro from Heunginjimun Gate all the way to Jogye Temple.
Although the official festival closed on Sunday, its festive mood will go on with most lanterns staying lit along the Cheonggye Stream until early next week.
Han Seong-woo, Arirang News.