Pope Leo XIV Unveils Seoul as Host of World Youth Day 2027
In a stirring announcement delivered during the Angelus prayer at Rome’s Tor Vergata on August 3, 2025, Pope Leo XIV revealed that the upcoming World Youth Day will take place in Seoul, South Korea, from August 3–8, 2027
Addressing over one million young pilgrims gathered for the Jubilee of Youth, the Pope described this international gathering as a continuation of the “pilgrimage of hope” that began in the Jubilee Year.
Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, whose invitation had been extended in Lisbon during WYD 2023, he called on young people worldwide to unite again in Asia.
The theme chosen for WYD 2027—drawn from the Gospel of John—is “Take courage! I have overcome the world.” (Jn 16:33), encapsulating a message of resilience and faith.
Significantly, this will mark the first WYD to be hosted in South Korea and only the second in Asia, following the landmark event in the Philippines in 1995
In the aftermath of the announcement, the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life began rallying youth ministries and diocesan teams globally to prepare for the event. As one official stated, the theme of hope will guide the journey toward Seoul 2027, encouraging young “pilgrims of hope” to become beacons of peace amid global divisions.