NCCA building in Intramuros all decked for Christmas
It’s the season of lanterns that cross the boundaries of culture and history.
As the Philippines celebrates the most festive time of the year, the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) present Light the Season: A Korea-Philippines Lantern Display, running from Dec. 2, 2025 to Jan. 6, 2026. The display is on the facade and lobby of the NCCA building in Intramuros and on the ground floor of the KCC in Taguig.
The display celebrates the Philippines’ iconic Christmas traditions through a vibrant display of parol and Jinju silk lanterns, highlighting the rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage shared by both countries.
Bringing back the enchantment of the Lights of Korea: Jinju Silk Lanterns exhibition, which ran from May to July this year at KCC, this showcase once again exhibits the exquisite artistry of lanterns crafted from fine Korean silk originating from Jinju in Gyeongsangnam-do Province. Each piece offers a captivating interplay of light, color, and tradition, embodying the timeless beauty of Korea’s lantern-making heritage.
Complementing these are iconic Filipino parols—a cherished symbol of Christmas. In the traditional shape of a star, the parol decorates homes, streets, and communities across the Philippines during the holiday season. Its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and handcrafted details reflect the festive warmth of the Filipino people.
‘Light the Season’ kighting ceremony
The opening ceremony was held last December 1 at the NCCA building lobby to officially light the lantern display. KCC director Kim Myeongjin said in his remarks, “Christmas holds significant meaning in the Philippines, and it is an honor to display Jinju silk lanterns with the Filipino symbol of Christmas, parol.”
NCCA deputy executive director for Operations Bernan Joseph Corpuz said, “The idea of collaborating the Jinju silk lantern with parol now came to life, and it truly offers us a glimpse of continued partnership between Korea and the Philippines.”
The ceremony’s highlight was the Pansori (Korean traditional singing) and Gayageum (Korean traditional string instrument) performance featuring traditional Korean pieces as well as a Christmas song, setting a festive atmosphere.
Parol workshop
In addition to the opening program, a special workshop was organized to deepen the appreciation of the lantern traditions of both countries. Participants attended an informative lecture about Jinju silk lanterns, and joined a hands-on parol-making activity led by artist Harvey San Miguel, offering them a meaningful and creative way to experience the craft.
Beyond their illuminating beauty, this first-ever pairing of Jinju silk lanterns with the Filipino parol tells a shared story of creativity and the enduring friendship between Korea and the Philippines.
The KCC and NCCA invite everyone to experience this display at the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Building in Intramuros, Manila, from Mondays to Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and at the Korean Cultural Center in Taguig City from Mondays to Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
NCCA lobby display runs from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., facade display runs from 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m.
