In May 1963, discontent among Buddhists in South Vietnam reached a boiling point, leading to a major protest outside the National Assembly in Saigon. The demonstrators sought to draw attention to the government's pro-Catholic policies under President Ngo Dinh Diem, which many in the Buddhist community felt discriminated against them. The oppressive measures included the prohibition of Buddhist flags during celebrations, while Catholic celebrations were lavishly endorsed by the state. This perceived inequality ignited frustrations among the Buddhist population, who were largely opposed to Diem's authoritarian rule and his government's failure to respect their religious freedoms.

On that day, thousands of Buddhist monks and their supporters convened in front of the assembly, holding banners and chanting slogans demanding equal treatment before the law. The demonstration not only marked a pivotal moment in the Buddhist crisis but also represented a significant challenge to Diem's authoritarian regime. The protestors’ willingness to publicly express their dissent signaled a shift in the political landscape of South Vietnam, showcasing the deepening divide between the government and a substantial portion of its populace. Tensions leading up to this protest had been escalating, spurring a wave of civil unrest.

As police began to disperse the protestors, violent confrontations erupted, resulting in numerous injuries and further igniting public sentiment against Diem's government. News of the protest spread quickly, contributing to both national and international scrutiny of the South Vietnamese regime, and highlighting the broader issues of civil rights and governmental repression. It set the stage for subsequent protests and confrontations that would ultimately lead to significant changes in the political environment of South Vietnam.