On May 5, 2025, a significant ceremony marking Buddha's Birthday was held at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul, attended by approximately 10,000 people, including Lee Joo-ho, the acting president and Deputy Prime Minister, and Jinwoo, the head of the Jogye Order. The event, which featured various rituals and prayers, emphasized the importance of solidarity and compassion in reviving communities affected by recent hardships.
During his speech at the ceremony, Lee Joo-ho stressed the need for a mindset of unity, encapsulated in the Buddhist phrase 'not being two but one.' He remarked, "This mindset is more crucial than ever as we navigate through the challenges of our times." He called for a collective effort to care for one another and share in each other's pain, highlighting the power of solidarity to rebuild a fractured community.
Lee further noted that the teachings of Buddha serve as a guiding light for society, illuminating the path toward harmony and unity. He stated, "In the face of a harsh historical tide, Buddha's compassion and teachings on coexistence illuminate the way forward for our society." This sentiment resonated with many attendees, who shared a collective hope for healing and restoration.
In his address, Lee promised that the government would work tirelessly to enhance the lives of citizens, aiming to foster an era of sustainable growth. He said, "Despite the difficult circumstances, we are committed to ensuring that the lives of our citizens become more prosperous and fulfilling." His commitment included a focus on supporting those impacted by disasters and preserving cultural heritage, which he deemed vital for national pride.
Lee also highlighted the year's celebration theme, 'Peace in the world, compassion in the heart,' as a guiding value for the community. He expressed his aspiration that small acts of kindness could collectively contribute to a more peaceful world, stating, "I hope that the warm hearts of compassion will illuminate the lives of our neighbors, paving the way for a more inclusive society."
The ceremony featured various rituals, including offerings and prayers, led by Namjeon, the head of the Jogye Order's Propagation Department. Notably, the event included the participation of socially vulnerable individuals, such as families impacted by the Jeju Airport tragedy and victims of Jeonse fraud, who were invited to join the celebrations.
In addition to the ceremonies, an award presentation recognized Buddhists who have contributed significantly to the propagation and development of Buddhism. This recognition aimed to encourage continued efforts in promoting Buddhist values and practices within society.
Meanwhile, Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, also attended the Buddha's Birthday ceremony at Jogyesa Temple. He took the opportunity to announce pledges related to Buddhism and children's welfare via social media. In his ongoing campaign, he emphasized the importance of listening to the voices of the community, continuing his 'Golmok Golmok Kyungcheong Tour' in the afternoon by visiting several regions in Gyeonggi and Chungbuk provinces.
Lee Jae-myung's campaign, which started on May 1, involved visits to various areas, including border regions and inland cities, to engage with constituents and gather support. His participation in the Buddhist ceremony reflects an effort to connect with the community on a cultural and spiritual level, reinforcing his commitment to addressing societal issues.
The Buddha's Birthday celebrations across the country, including at Jogyesa Temple, served as a reminder of the values of compassion and unity that Buddhism promotes. As communities come together to celebrate, the emphasis on collective healing and support resonates deeply in a time of social and economic challenges.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees were treated to a video presentation that aimed to guide them toward happiness, encapsulating the spirit of the day and the messages shared by leaders and participants alike. The event not only celebrated a significant religious occasion but also reinforced the importance of community and shared values in overcoming adversity.
