Master plan unveiled for World Youth Day in South Korea

Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-tiack of Seoul, who chairs the WYD Local Organising Committee, said “Seoul in 2027. . . will become a city of hope, a city of solidarity and a city of mission”.

Bishop Paul Kyung-sang Lee, general coordinator of WYD Seoul 2027, said the event will focus on the themes of truth, love and Peace. He noted that the overarching theme of love embraces care for creation and ecological conversion.

He also announced plans to establish international youth networks dedicated to environmental stewardship, along with symposia and workshops where “young people will share ideas and initiatives for the common good”.

According to the schedule, World Youth Day is slated to take place from July 29 to August 8, 2027.

The first phase, known as the Days in the Dioceses (July 29-August 2), will be hosted across Korea’s 15 dioceses, followed by the main events (August 3-8) held throughout Seoul, the committee said.

Participants of the Days in the Dioceses programme get the opportunity to experience the life of local communities through parish programmes and homestays with host families.

The main events will include six central celebrations, including the opening Mass, welcome ceremony with the Holy Father, Youth Festival, catechesis, Way of the Cross and the vigil and the closing Mass.

Archbishop Chung will preside over the opening Mass, which will be attended by members of the College of Cardinals and bishops from more than 160 countries.

The welcome ceremony, marking the Holy Father’s first encounter with young pilgrims, will combine cultural and artistic performances with the Pope’s message to youth.

Bishop Lee said the event will “strengthen the courage to face the challenges of our time, and embrace the spiritual values that guide humanity toward a future of life and hope”.

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Seoul World Youth Day 2027 to focus on care for creation, ecological conversion (UCA News)