Busan: In celebration of the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, a Long Life Prayer Ceremony (Jangsu Kido Beobhoe, 장수기도법회) was held on the morning of Sunday, 6 July, at Gwaneumsa Temple in Busan. The event was a meaningful spiritual gathering that brought together Tibetan monks, Korean Buddhist monks and nuns, lay practitioners, and members of the Tibetan and Korean communities.
The prayer service began at 9:30 AM, featuring traditional Tibetan and Korean Buddhist rituals. The temple was adorned with a large portrait of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama placed in front of the main altar, which featured the thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara (Gwaneum Bosal), symbolising the embodiment of compassion—a principle deeply associated with His Holiness.
The ceremony included: mandala offerings and long-life prayers led by Tibetan and Korean monks, recitation of Guru Yoga and prayers invoking blessings for His Holiness’ continued presence and guidance, offerings of ceremonial scarves (khatag) to the portrait of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and heartfelt remarks by Korean Buddhist leaders and participants expressing deep respect and admiration for His Holiness’ lifelong contributions to peace and humanity.
The atmosphere was both solemn and celebratory, reflecting reverence and joy. Attendees were visibly moved during moments of collective chanting and during the ceremonial presentation of multicoloured khatags. A unique highlight was the participation of both Tibetan and Korean sanghas, who came together in spiritual unity despite different cultural traditions.
Following the prayer ceremony, a vegetarian communal lunch was offered to all participants. A three-tiered birthday cake inscribed with “Happy Birthday to Your Holiness the Dalai Lama” was also presented, symbolising the celebratory aspect of this milestone occasion.
The event concluded with group photographs, laughter, and conversations filled with blessings and well-wishes. It was a poignant and heartfelt observance that not only honoured the spiritual legacy of His Holiness but also strengthened ties between the Tibetan and Korean Buddhist communities.
