2025 Easter Parade Celebrates 140 Years Of Korean Missions

On April 19, 2025, Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul turned into a vibrant celebration of faith and history as the '2025 Easter Parade' unfolded with the theme 'Because He Lives!'. This significant event commemorated the 140th anniversary of Korean missions, showcasing the impact of Christianity in South Korea over the decades.

With around 6,000 participants across 60 teams, the parade was not just a display of faith but also a cultural spectacle. It was divided into four acts: 'The Beginning of the Promise', 'Suffering and Resurrection', 'The Korean Peninsula and Reunification', and 'The Promise of the Future'. Each act vividly illustrated biblical stories alongside the historical journey of Korean Protestantism.

Despite the rain, participants marched with determination, beginning with a procession reminiscent of the Ark of the Covenant from the Old Testament, representing God’s enduring promise. The parade included reenactments of significant biblical events, such as the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle, and the crucifixion and resurrection, which are central to the Easter message.

Peter Underwood, a fourth-generation descendant of missionary Horace Underwood, and Matthew Sheffield, a fifth-generation descendant of missionary Henry Appenzeller, were among the notable participants. They took part in the parade’s opening ceremony, expressing their gratitude for being part of an event that honored their ancestors’ contributions to Korean Christianity. Underwood remarked, "It is very meaningful to directly participate in an event that commemorates the pioneers who set foot on the Korean Peninsula 140 years ago. We are grateful that the seeds of faith sown by our forebears have borne such rich fruit in today’s South Korea."

The parade featured a variety of large displays, including a float representing a large ship, symbolizing the vessels that brought early missionaries to Korea. Additionally, a large cross and North Korean Bibles were displayed, underscoring the theme of unity and the hope for reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula.

Reverend Lee Young-hoon, chairman of the parade, delivered a welcoming address emphasizing the event's purpose to spread the message of resurrection and renewal. He stated, "I hope this Easter Parade, unfolding in the grace of a blessing rain, will renew this land with the message of resurrection and unite the nation in joy."

Reverend Kim Jong-heok, representing the Korean Church United, highlighted the importance of sharing the joy and peace of resurrection with all, while Minister Yoo In-chon of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conveyed his wishes for the parade to inspire courage and hope in difficult times.

In addition to the parade, Gwanghwamun Square was filled with 33 booths offering various activities for families and attendees. These included interactive experiences that aimed to foster a healthy Christian culture among the youth. Notable Christian creators were present, promoting open dialogue and engagement with younger generations.

The event was designed to be inclusive, allowing families to participate directly in the festivities. Activities such as a 'Love Mailbox' and photo zones provided opportunities for attendees to engage with the event's themes actively.

As the day came to a close, the festivities culminated in the '2025 Joyful Concert' held at the special stage in Gwanghwamun. Featuring performances by popular artists like Park Jung-hyun and Daybreak, the concert celebrated the resurrection theme and brought the community together in shared joy and reflection.

The '2025 Easter Parade' was not merely a religious observance; it was a cultural festival that blended artistic expression with community engagement, aiming to reach beyond church walls and resonate with the broader public. The parade's innovative approach, reminiscent of a large musical production, was orchestrated by director Cho Hyung-je, known for his work in the Seoul Street Arts Festival and cultural events.

With its elaborate performances and community involvement, the parade sought to convey a message of hope, renewal, and unity, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Christian faith in South Korea. The event highlighted the historical significance of the missionaries who laid the groundwork for Christianity in the region and celebrated the ongoing legacy of their work.

As participants and spectators alike gathered to witness the colorful displays and heartfelt performances, the '2025 Easter Parade' served as a reminder of the power of faith to inspire and unite people across generations. The event not only honored the past but also looked forward to a future filled with hope and possibility, echoing the core message of Easter.