VATICAN: October 26, 2026 – Pope Leo XIV has called on Catholic young people from around the world to join World Youth Day (WYD) 2027 in Seoul, South Korea, marking the international gathering’s return to Asia after more than three decades.
WYD 2027 is scheduled to take place from Aug 3 to 8 next year. Registration for international participants opened on October 22, 2026.
In a video message marking the opening of registration, Leo invited young people to use the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen their faith, deepen their relationship with God and build fraternity with Catholics from various countries and cultural backgrounds.
He encouraged young people to bring their life experiences, including dreams, hopes, wounds and struggles, to share in the journey of faith with the universal Church.
WYD 2027 carries the theme “Take Courage! I Have Overcome the World” (John 16:33), reminding young people to face life’s challenges courageously, grounded in faith in Christ.
WYD’s return to Asia is significant, as the international gathering was last held in the region in Manila, the Philippines, in 1995.
The Seoul event is expected to bring together Catholic youth from around the world in a celebration of faith, prayer and universal fraternity.
Pope Leo XIV hopes participation will be a meaningful experience that renews hope and strengthens young people’s commitment to be witnesses of Christ in daily life.
