WYD to Be Held in Seoul in July 2027, Pope to Visit Korea... Up to 1 Million Expected from Around the World

2027 World Youth Day to Be Held in Seoul
Papal Visit Expected, 1 Million Participants from Around the Globe
Overnight Prayer Vigil Likely at Olympic Park
Special Legislation in Progress for Smooth Operation

"We will share the depth and beauty of Korean culture, where the breath of a thousand years of tradition coexists harmoniously with the dynamically evolving present, with young people from around the world."

At the 2027 World Youth Day (WYD) basic plan press briefing held at the Omnibus Park Convention Hall of Catholic University on the 27th, Archbishop Chung Soon-taek, Chairman of the Organizing Committee (Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul), made this statement in his keynote address. He said, "Today is not just the announcement of an event plan," adding, "It is our promise to the youth of the world living in this era, and an invitation to reflect on the direction humanity should take together."

On the 27th, Archbishop Jung Soon-taek, Chairman of the Organizing Committee (Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul), spoke at the 2027 World Youth Day (WYD) basic plan press briefing held at the Omnibus Park Convention Hall of Catholic University. Provided by the Catholic Archdiocese of Seoul

WYD has symbolized solidarity and peace among youth worldwide since it was established in 1985 by Pope John Paul II to commemorate World Youth Day. Since its inception in Rome in 1986, the cumulative number of participants has reached 23.5 million. In 1995, 4 million people gathered in Manila, Philippines, and in 2023, 1.5 million attended in Lisbon, Portugal.

The event will be held from July 29 to August 8, 2027, over 10 nights and 11 days, with 1 million participants expected

The 2027 WYD will take place in Seoul from July 29 to August 8, spanning 10 nights and 11 days. The theme verse is "Take courage; I have conquered the world" from John 16:29, and the overarching themes are truth, love, and peace. The first part (July 29 to August 2) will consist of diocesan gatherings across 15 dioceses nationwide, while the main event (August 3 to 8) will be held throughout Seoul. During the diocesan gatherings, participants will interact with local parishioners, experience Korean culture, and share community life through homestays. The main event will feature six core programs: the Opening Mass, Papal Welcome Event, Youth Festival, Catechesis Triduum, Way of the Cross, and the Overnight Prayer Vigil and Missioning Mass.

Papal vigil likely to be held at Olympic Park

The Opening Mass and Papal Welcome Event are expected to be large-scale gatherings, with the Pope and cardinals from 160 countries participating. The estimated number of attendees is 1 million. Several venues are under final review. The Overnight Prayer Vigil and Missioning Mass are most likely to be held at Olympic Park or Yeouido Hangang Park. The Opening Mass and Papal Welcome Event are being considered for Sangam World Cup Stadium and Gwanghwamun Square.

Youth traveling to Korea from around the world to participate in the event will be accommodated at 233 churches and other locations nationwide. Father Lee Youngje, Secretary General of the Organizing Committee, stated, "World Youth Day is a historic opportunity for Korea to deliver a message of peace, unity, and solidarity to the world, transcending religious boundaries," adding, "The Organizing Committee will do its utmost, in cooperation with the government and local authorities, to ensure this historic event is held successfully and safely."

Given that the Jamboree incident left a negative impression internationally, thorough safety measures against heatwaves and close coordination with police, fire, and medical authorities are being carefully prepared. Father Lee said, "We will deploy police, fire, medical, and volunteer personnel to establish a multi-layered security system. A youth protection system will also be implemented," adding, "The 2027 Seoul WYD is a nationwide event that cannot be accomplished by civil efforts alone. Government and local authority cooperation is absolutely essential in all areas, including administration, safety, finance, transportation, medical services, and communications infrastructure."

Second time in Asia, highlighting multi-religious character

They are taking a commemorative photo at the '2027 World Youth Day (WYD) Seoul Kickoff Ceremony' held at Myeongdong Cathedral in Jung-gu, Seoul on July 28 last year. Provided by the Archdiocese of Seoul

It is also notable that Seoul, South Korea-a non-Christian country where various religions coexist-will host WYD for the second time in Asia, following Manila, Philippines in 1995. The Organizing Committee expects that Seoul WYD will serve as a platform for demonstrating openness toward different religions and showcasing the growth of the Asian community.

Bishop Lee Kyungsang, Chief Coordinator of the Organizing Committee, emphasized the national significance of the event and the need for special legislation. He said, "WYD is a state event involving a state visit by the head of the Vatican. It should not be viewed merely as a Catholic religious event to expand the Church's influence," adding, "To safely manage an event attracting nearly 1 million people, there is a need to secure a budget for safety measures through special legislation. WYD is not an event to expand Catholic influence. It is an opportunity to introduce Korea's diverse religions and cultures, including Buddhism and Protestantism, to the world."

Estimated economic impact of 3 trillion won, special legislation pursued for smooth operation

With up to 1 million participants expected, the Organizing Committee anticipates that Seoul WYD will generate an economic impact of between 2.07 trillion and 3.15 trillion won. The induced value-added effect is estimated at between 910 billion and 1.37 trillion won, and the employment effect is expected to reach between 11,000 and 16,000 jobs. The Organizing Committee is working with the legislature and political circles to enact special legislation for the smooth operation of Seoul WYD.