Exploring the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival
- Original source
- blog.naver.com
On a hot summer day like today, I would like to introduce an event taking place at the beautiful Buyeo site, 'Gungnamji.'
First, let me share a tale with you. Have you heard the story of Seodong and Princess Sunhwa?
They are well-known figures from the traditional song 'Seodongyo.'
Princess Sunhwa is the third daughter of King Jinpyeong of Silla, as recorded in the 'Samguk Yusa.'
Once, there was a young man named Seodong who lived by selling reeds.
Upon hearing that Princess Sunhwa was the most beautiful woman, he vowed, 'I must make her my wife!'
However, as an ordinary commoner, he wondered how he could approach the princess.
He then decided to spread the song 'Seodongyo' among children, which conveyed his love for Princess Sunhwa.
The lyrics were like a love letter, expressing that Princess Sunhwa loved Seodong.
Angered by this news, King Jinpyeong banished Princess Sunhwa from the palace, exclaiming, "Is this true? You are my daughter! Get out of the palace immediately!"
As Princess Sunhwa was expelled, Seodong appeared to protect her, and the legend of their love blossomed just as described in 'Seodongyo.'
You can learn more about this story at the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival held at Gungnamji.
Shall we embark on this journey together?
Before the festival begins, there will be a lotus festival lighting ceremony on Friday, June 26.
Since this Friday is approaching quickly, you should hurry!
Various artists, including Kim Jeong-ho, IQ, and Kim Yong-bin, will perform to celebrate the lighting ceremony.
I visited Gungnamji last autumn and was surprised by its large scale.
Additionally, due to the changing perceptions around single-use items, reusable containers will be used at food trucks and markets.
You can return the used containers at designated collection points for reuse.
Let me introduce a few scenic spots.
Firstly, the night view of the city is spectacular.
When I visited last time, I was impressed by the illuminated statue of a general and a horse in traditional Baekje attire.
The festival will also feature beautiful lantern displays, allowing you to enjoy the festivities in a brightly lit environment.
With many people attending, there are also ample facilities.
There will be a storage room and a nursing room for mothers, as well as 13 rest areas throughout Seodong Park to help combat the heat.
When I visit Buyeo, I usually use the free bike rentals.
For those with heavy luggage and no transportation, free buses and taxis are available.
The bus circulates between the city center and Seodong Park.
Did you know there are free taxis circulating as well?
This taxi service connects Seodong Park (Gungnamji) to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Baekje Historic Sites.
There are also designated parking lots, reducing any hassle related to parking during the event.
On the first day of the festival, July 3, popular artists like Nora Jo, Yoo Jina, and Baek Seongmin will perform.
The closing performance will feature the Korea Youth Trot Competition, where you can meet aspiring trot singers.
Additionally, artists such as Ecclesia, Seo An, and Kim Hwan-young will also be present.
And on this hot day, there will be a water play event at Buyeo Middle School with the theme 'Just Splash It.'
I hope everyone has a great time splashing water and enjoying themselves.
The 24th Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival takes place in Seodong Park, Buyeo County.
Date of coverage: June 25.
Images used are from the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival website.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224331178764
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