By Honorary Reporter Martina Marrandino from Italy

Photos = Martina Marrandino

Last month's Seoul Lantern Festival was held from Dec. 19-31 at the capital's downtown Gwanghwamun Square after being held along Cheonggyecheon Stream over the past 14 years. Interested in this event, I visited the site on Dec. 25. 

The first of the four main areas of the festival was dubbed "Sea of Courage" in front of the iconic statue of legendary Admiral Yi Sun-shin. A lantern replica of his turtle ship geobukseon made of the traditional paper Hanji was illuminated by blue LED lights that simulated the deep sea.

A geobukseon (turtle ship) made of lanterns

The second section "A Light to Accompany" displayed lantern works like "Moon Halo," "Starry Cat" and "A Lovely Forest."

 Lantern statues in the section "A Light to Accompany"

The third area, "The Garden of Lights," had trees adorned with glowing lights to create a magical atmosphere.

A brightly lit walkway at the section "The Garden of Lights"

The final section "My Soul Seoul" displayed lanterns shaped like travelers walking with suitcases to celebrate the return of tourists after a long period of traveling restrictions due to COVID-19. A giant rabbit signaled the coming of the Year of the Rabbit in 2023 under the Asian zodiac.

Giant lantern symbolizing Year of the Rabbit in 2023

The Gwanghwamun Square Market at the center of the square created a festive atmosphere with around 50 vendors selling Christmas gifts, homemade crafts and food.

kalhong617@korea.kr 

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.