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Traditional Korean Hanji Lanturns Make Their Debut at Singapore’s National Garden

As Korea’s most cherished holiday Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) draws near, Singapore also celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival—a harvest season festival rooted in gratitude and reunion. With 75% of Singapore’s population being ethnically Chinese, the nation comes alive with colorful lanterns, performances, and festivities, especially around Chinatown.



This year, in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, traditional Korean Hanji lanterns have been exhibited for the first time ever at Singapore’s National Garden, Gardens by the Bay.

Organized in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore, the Seoul Tourism Organization, and Gardens by the Bay, the exhibit runs from September 18 to October 4, featuring the signature Hanji lantern series titled A Royal Stroll.



A Glimpse into Korea’s Royal Court

A Royal Stroll is an elegant series of Hanji Lanturns that brings to life scenes from the royal court of the early Joseon Dynasty. Inspired by royal walks through palace grounds like Gyeongbokgung’s Gangnyeongjeon and Hyangwonjeong, the installation features 11 striking lanterns, including the King and Queen, court ladies, eunuchs, and royal guards.



Originally debuted at the Seoul Lantern Festival in Cheonggyecheon, where it was among the most beloved works, this installation has now traveled to Gardens by the Bay—Singapore’s national garden and world-class attraction known as the “Garden of the World.”



Each lantern is crafted from Hanji, Korea’s traditional handmade paper, and embodies both intricate craftsmanship and cultural symbolism, offering Singaporean audiences a poetic glimpse into Korean royal heritage.

Shared Traditions of Light and Family

Just like Chuseok in Korea, Singaporeans celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival by lighting lanterns, gathering with loved ones, and sharing mooncakes. The A Royal Stroll lantern exhibition beautifully echoes these shared cultural values of family reunion, abundance, and gratitude.



Organizers at Gardens by the Bay noted that this year’s celebration aims to serve as a reminder of community spirit and togetherness, especially in times shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a joint statement, the Korean Embassy in Singapore expressed hope that “the lanterns of hope and friendship will symbolize the growing bond and cooperation between Korea and Singapore, especially as the two countries mark their 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties.”



Voices from the Team

“With global travel still limited, we’re grateful for this chance to introduce Seoul and Korean culture through Hanji lanterns,” said Park Jin-hyuk, Content Director at the Seoul Tourism Organization. “This overseas exhibit not only promotes Seoul as a future destination for Singaporean tourists, but also helps elevate the Seoul Lantern Festival into a truly global cultural event.”

Artistic Director Lim Young-taek, who led the creation of A Royal Stroll, added:
“I hope this exhibition offers a moment of healing and beauty to those facing hardship during the pandemic. May it also become a bridge to share Korea’s exquisite Hanji culture with the world.”

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