In Korea, despite the country not having a state religion, Buddha’s Birthday is observed as a public holiday. But how did the day attain its designation?

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Thousands of Buddhist believers and festival-goers filled downtown Seoul for Yeon Deung Hoe, or the Lotus Lantern Festival. Participants, some dressed in traditional ...

Buddhists holding lanterns watch as a giant lantern moves in a parade during the Yeon Deung Hoe, or Lotus Lantern Festival ahead of the Buddha's birthday on May 5, in downtown Seoul, South Korea ...