Seoul Easter parade ascension stunt goes viral as actor lifted high above crowd by crane

A large-scale Easter parade in Seoul drew more than 8,000 participants on Sunday, with a dramatic performance depicting the ascension of Jesus Christ capturing widespread attention after an actor was hoisted high above the crowd by crane at Gwanghwamun Square.

The “2026 Easter Parade”, held under the theme “Because He lives, we can face tomorrow! The living Lord, my true hope!”, was organised by the United Christian Churches of Korea (UCCK) and CTS Christian TV, alongside the CTS Cultural Foundation and Joy & Com Co.

The event spanned Gwanghwamun Square and nearby Sejong-daero, featuring 40 teams and structured into four acts and 14 scenes. These included “The Beginning of the Promise”, “Suffering and Resurrection”, “The Korean Peninsula and the Gospel”, and “The Promise of the Future”, combining biblical narratives with the history of Christianity in Korea.

The opening ceremony included a prayer by Rev. Park Dong-chan of Ilsan Kwanglim Church. Rev. Kim Jung-seok, representative president of UCCK, called for unity, saying: “Let the Korean church, united in love, go out into the world and proclaim the news of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”

Ascension’ performance goes viral

The highlight of the parade came during a staged depiction of Jesus Christ’s ascension, where a performer portraying Jesus was lifted by crane using cables high above the crowd.

The ascent continued far beyond what spectators expected, with the actor rising to a height comparable to surrounding buildings, creating a surreal visual spectacle.

Online reactions quickly followed, with some users joking about the prolonged ascent, including comments questioning whether the performer was “attached to the moon” or asking if there were “plans to bring him back down before Christmas”.

The moment turned the theatrical reenactment into a viral sensation, drawing international attention.

Biblical reenactments and Korean church history

Beyond the viral scene, the parade featured numerous large-scale reenactments from Scripture, including the parting of the Red Sea, the birth of Jesus, the wedding at Cana and the Last Supper.

A central stage production presented a musical depicting the suffering, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, aiming to convey the meaning of Easter to attendees.

The programme also highlighted the development of Christianity in Korea, including missionary contributions during the country’s modernisation. Figures such as Horace Allen and Mary Scranton were portrayed, reflecting their roles in education and medical work.

A procession featuring Sorae Church symbolised the translation of the Bible into Korean and the establishment of self-supporting churches.

Officials emphasise unity and hope

Religious and political figures attending the event emphasised themes of unity and hope.

Rev. Lee Young-hoon of Yoido Full Gospel Church said: “I hope this holy procession filling Gwanghwamun Square will become a light of hope that brightens the world.”

Rev. Jang Bong-saeng added that he hoped “this sacred march will become a signal flare for a great spiritual revival that awakens this stagnant age.”

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon also expressed support, stating: “I hope this march will become a journey of hope that lifts one another up beyond division and conflict.”

Additional remarks were delivered by political representatives from both the Democratic Party of Korea and the People Power Party, as well as officials from the Presidential Office and the Seoul Metropolitan Council.

Cultural programmes and closing performances

The parade began formally with an opening declaration by CTS Chairman Gam Kyung-cheol, who said he hoped the event would grow into “a global Christian cultural festival” that transcends denominational and generational boundaries.

Participants from Yoido Full Gospel Church led part of the procession carrying a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, constructed based on biblical descriptions.

Alongside the parade, an “Easter Village” operated at Gwanghwamun Square, offering exhibitions, interactive programmes and themed goods from Christian cultural groups.

The day concluded with a “Joyful Concert” featuring performances by K-pop acts including BTOB, Billlie and Calling Choir, bringing the public celebration to a close.