Seoul World Youth Day

The 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD) is taking a step forward in becoming an event shaped by the global Church, moving beyond preparations led solely by the host nation. Youth ministry representatives from around the world will gather in Korea to share the event's vision and the status of preparations and discuss concrete measures to encourage youth participation in their respective countries. 

This article appeared in the Korean Catholic Times.

The "2nd International Preparatory Meeting" for the 2027 Seoul WYD will be held at an Incheon hotel from September 14 to 17. This conference is jointly hosted and organized by the Holy See’s Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life (DLFL), the Seoul WYD Organizing Committee, and the Archdiocese of Seoul, with sponsorship from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Approximately 400 people will attend, including youth ministry representatives from dioceses and organizations across 190 countries, members of the Holy See’s International Youth Advisory Body (IYAB), organizing committee officials, and volunteers. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the DLFL, will also attend to review preparations and meet with the participants.

The conference agenda includes a variety of sessions and programs. 

The "DID EXPO" will be held on the 15th. This expo serves as a venue to introduce representatives from various countries to the programs planned for diocesan-level gatherings across Korea leading up to the main 2027 Seoul WYD event. Dioceses will set up booths to showcase their welcoming programs and details regarding their respective local gatherings. Currently, 13 of the 15 dioceses are scheduled to participate.

On the 16th, participants will travel to Seoul to attend Mass at Myeongdong Cathedral. Archbishop Peter Chung will preside over the Mass in English, accompanied by the Seoul WYD choir and orchestra.

Through this International Preparatory Meeting, participants are expected to gain firsthand insight into the concrete preparations and programs for Seoul WYD and experience the local Church and culture, thereby heightening their anticipation and commitment to the event.

The Organizing Committee plans to use this meeting to share the current status and vision of Seoul WYD with youth ministry officials from around the world. By actively incorporating diverse opinions from participating nations, the committee aims to further refine preparations to ensure the event's success.