World Youth Day (WYD) is an international gathering of young people established by Saint John Paul II. First held in Rome in 1986, WYD is led by the Holy Father and takes place every few years in a host city chosen by the Pope. WYD is a pilgrimage of faith, an expression of the universal Church, and an instrument of evangelization for young people. Through prayer, catecheses, the celebration of the Eucharist, and fellowship, it invites participants to encounter Christ, deepen their faith, discern their vocation, and become active members of the Church. At the same time, WYD is more than a religious event. It is a global encounter where young people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds come together to build friendships, learn from one another, and promote the universal values of truth, love, peace, solidarity, and respect for human dignity.

WYD Seoul 2027 will be from August 3 (Tue) to August 8 (Sun), 2027.

While WYD is organised by the Catholic Church and is primarily intended for young people aged 14–30, all who wish to participate are welcome.

Yes, although it is an event promoted by the Catholic Church, everyone is welcome to attend WYD Seoul 2027.

The Catholic Church in Korea is a vibrant minority within a predominantly non-Christian religious landscape, where 51% percent of the population has no religion. According to national statistics from 2024, Catholicism is the fourth largest religion in South Korea, with approximately 11% of the population identifying as Catholic. With no priests at first, the early Church in Korea was led by young lay believers who gathered in secret, studied scripture, and lived out the Gospel. Aspiring to build a new world, they discovered the Christian faith in their search for truth and formed a Church community by encountering the living Christ through baptism. They strived to continue their life of faith even amidst harsh persecutions that spread over one hundred years, leading to countless martyrs. The Church in modern Korea reflects the spirit of these saints, determined to be a light to the secular society and witness to the Gospel values of peace, love, and truth.

The largest number of pilgrims in the history of WYD gathered in Manila in 1995 was approximately 4 million pilgrims. On the other hand, the lowest recorded number was at Sydney in 2008, with around 400,000 pilgrims. Being an island, visiting Australia wasn't easy, geographically speaking. As entry to South Korea is also only possible by air or sea, in some ways the Korean WYD is similar to Sydney. However, considering the recent global interest in South Korea, we are expecting around 500,000 participants.

To begin your preparations, we recommend that you first contact your local youth ministry office, either in your parish or diocese. A majority of pilgrims come to WYD as part of larger groups, and your local youth ministry organizers would be your first point of contact. We also encourage you to check out the materials we have for spiritual preparation, found on the Preparatory Resources page. You can find resources explaining what World Youth Day is, our vision for WYD Seoul 2027, and the spiritual values we are pursuing on this pilgrimage.

WYD in Seoul must be created by many people working together, with the young participants playing the leading role. Unlike other international events, WYD does not just target the youth, but seeks to include them as leaders in the preparation process. More than anything else, we must gather our hearts and prepare spiritually. We turn to Our Blessed Mother Mary in the rosary and ask for her powerful intercession, entrusting this global gathering of young people to her maternal care. We also invite everyone to pray the “Prayer for Young People” found on this website, calling down abundant graces upon all preparations and participants!

In today’s fast-changing world, we want to create spaces where young people can connect with peers from all corners of the globe, feel genuinely welcomed and loved, and explore what life really means. Through various meetings and discussions during WYD, pilgrims will have the opportunity to reflect on global issues such as climate, war, poverty, and peace, and consider what stance they should take on these issues. Furthermore, by learning to understand diverse cultures and embody the spirit of peace with an unbiased perspective, the young people who participate in WYD will contribute to the development of future international relations as they grow into social leaders.

A papal visit is an event that symbolically reveals the country's status in the international community. When Pope Francis visited in 2014, it was an inspiring and comforting reflection of his efforts to seek out the marginalized, the poor, and the excluded. Moreover, it served as a motivation for a renewed beginning. Even in this age characterized by competition and exclusion, the Holy Father always emphasizes hope for humanity. The visit of the Pope, who is a symbol of peace, to the divided Korean peninsula is expected to raise international awareness of the North-South issue and provide an opportunity to discuss peace for everyone.

DID is a program that precedes the week of WYD and consists of the integration of young people from all over the world into the parish communities of dioceses in Korea. During these days, the pilgrims will be able to get to know the region, as well as the local Church and its particularities. All the dioceses in Korea, except the Archdiocese of Seoul, will take part in DID.

DID will take place from July 29 to August 2, 2027.

Registration for DID is managed by the respective Diocesan Organizing Committee (DOC). For more information about the Korean dioceses hosting DID and how to register, please visit wyd2027did.org.

DID is an opportunity for young pilgrims to live in community with local youth in dioceses across Korea and experience the Church and culture more deeply ahead of WYD. While it is intended for those planning to attend WYD, registration for WYD is not required to participate in DID, as the two registration processes are separate.

The highlights of WYD are the celebrations attended by the Pope, such as the Papal welcome of the pilgrims, the Way of the Cross, the vigil and, on the last day, the Closing Mass. For one week, young people from all over the world are hosted mostly in public facilities (gyms, schools, halls...) and in parish or family homes. In addition to moments of prayer, socializing and recreation, the young people can participate in various initiatives, such as the Youth Festival, Vocational Fair, and Reconciliation Park, organized by the LOC in different parts of Seoul. More details can be found on the Outline of Activities page, which will be updated as the details are finalized.

At this stage, we are still in the process of preparing the event venues in close collaboration with the Vatican, as well as the Korean government and local institutions. We will publish more information as it is available on our official channels.

If you would like to collaborate in WYD Seoul 2027 events, please send your proposal to the Events Division at youthfestival@wydseoul.org.

While WYD is primarily intended for young people aged 14–30, all who wish to participate are welcome. Participants born on or before July 31, 2013, are eligible to register for accommodations provided by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC). In accordance with the Youth Protection Act of the Republic of Korea, participants must be born on or before December 31, 2008, to be considered adults under Korean law. Participants born after this date are considered minors and must submit a parental consent form and be accompanied by a designated responsible adult throughout the event. Please also note that, in accordance with Korean law, smoking and the consumption of alcohol are prohibited for all minors.

There is no cost to participate in any of the events during WYD. However, part of the funding of the organizational logistics comes from pilgrims' participation in covering the costs of the gathering by registering and choosing their Pilgrim Package. Detailed information on the packages can be found on the Announcements page under “WYD Seoul 2027 Pilgrim Package Contribution Information.”

Groups can choose from a variety of packages that include lodging, food, transport, insurance, and the pilgrims’ kit, or various combinations thereof. The number of days included in the package is also adjustable. Detailed information on the packages can be found on the Announcements page under “WYD Seoul 2027 Pilgrim Package Contribution Information".

Groups may choose from a range of packages that include accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, and the Pilgrim Kit, with the number of days varying by package. The packages range from USD 70 to 340. Detailed information on the packages can be found on the Announcements page under “WYD Seoul 2027 Pilgrim Package Contribution Information.”

Registration is not required to attend WYD events. However, registered participants receive access to official pilgrim services such as accommodation, meals, transport, insurance, and the official pilgrim kit. During the main events, certain areas may also be reserved for registered participants due to security and logistical requirements.

The registration system will be launched in late October 2026 via a link on the WYD website. Group Leaders will be able to register on behalf of their groups through the platform. Please note that Group Leaders must be responsible adults appointed by and accountable to the relevant ecclesial authority (e.g., a parish, diocese, religious congregation, or Catholic movement.

Within the registration system, groups can be created to facilitate the registration and management of pilgrims. Groups may be registered in one of the following ways: - Single Group: A group of up to 150 pilgrims - Macro group: A large group of up to 5,000 pilgrims, with subgroups* of up to 150 pilgrims each *Subgroups will need to have the same package.

Yes, you can register as an individual. However, we encourage you to reach out to your local WYD delegation or diocesan office as well. They can help you prepare spiritually and practically for the pilgrimage and make sure you receive the latest information about schedules, accommodation, and other important details. This will also ensure that you receive official updates and support throughout your WYD journey.

Priests and deacons will be registered by their Group Leaders through the same registration system as pilgrims, together with the required information and supporting documents. Priests may also indicate their availability and preferred language for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Bishops will register through a dedicated section on the registration system.

The registration of pilgrims for WYD will be done on an official registration platform. If you want to be present at WYD with your movement, we suggest you contact your local structure and see if they are organizing groups to go to WYD and register through them once the system opens.

WYD Seoul 2027 is targeted to people between the ages of 14 and 30, but open to people of all ages. If you are traveling with younger children, we advise you to choose a package without accommodation and find your own lodging, as the accommodation provided for pilgrims is not suitable for small children.

The invitation to participate in WYD is for everyone and people with special needs are very welcome. As we know that there are important limitations, we are working on the details so that everyone can participate in all the activities. We will publish more information as soon as possible.

A Group Leader must be a responsible adult appointed by and accountable to the relevant ecclesial authority (e.g., a parish, diocese, religious congregation, or Catholic movement). The Group Leader accompanies pilgrims throughout their WYD journey, supporting their spiritual preparation, practical needs, safety, and well-being. The responsibilities of a Group Leader include, but are not limited to: - Registering pilgrims and submitting the required information and supporting documents through the registration system - Preparing the group spiritually and logistically before the pilgrimage - Facilitating the check-in process and the collection and distribution of Pilgrim Kits - Serving as the main point of contact between the group and the LOC - Ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims - Understanding, complying with, and promoting the WYD Seoul 2027 Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct, and ensuring that pilgrims are informed of and comply with these requirements - Responding appropriately in the event of an emergency A Group Leader plays a vital role in ensuring that pilgrims can participate in World Youth Day safely and fruitfully.

The event venues are currently being finalized, and the LOC is coordinating the necessary arrangements. Venue details will be announced through our official channels once they are confirmed.

Pilgrims who select an accommodation package will be provided with a simple breakfast. Pilgrims who select a package that includes meals will receive a card preloaded with funds for transportation, lunch and dinner. The card can be used at restaurants, convenience stores, and other participating establishments, giving pilgrims the flexibility to choose where and what they would like to eat during their stay in Korea.

Pilgrims will receive a transportation card for use on Seoul’s public transportation system during the WYD period. All pilgrim packages include access to public transportation within Seoul, including buses and the subway. The use of the card outside Seoul is still under discussion and will be confirmed later. Please note that airport transfers are not included in the pilgrim package, and pilgrims are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the airport.

Accommodation packages provided by the LOC include a range of lodging options, such as homestays with host families and group accommodations in public facilities, including training centers, gymnasiums, and auditoriums. Group accommodations are indoor, air-conditioned facilities. As demand for homestays is expected to exceed availability, accommodation assignments will be made based on operational considerations. Unfortunately, it is not possible to request or reserve a specific accommodation type, venue, or location, as all assignments are made by the LOC according to operational needs. Pilgrims staying in group accommodations should expect to sleep on the floor using sleeping bags and share bathroom and shower facilities. Please note that accommodations provided by the LOC are available only to participants born on or before July 31, 2013. On the night before the Closing Mass, all pilgrims will gather at the main venue for the Vigil with the Holy Father and stay overnight on-site using personal sleeping bags. The LOC is carefully preparing the venue, taking into account essential logistical considerations such as water supply, sanitation, waste management, and medical support to ensure a safe overnight experience.

Accommodation is generally arranged according to four categories: adult males, adult females, minor males, and minor females. Depending on the facilities and available capacity, it may not always be possible to provide separate rooms or spaces for each category. In such cases, partitions or other measures may be used to separate the accommodation areas. Priests and religious are not provided with separate accommodation and will stay in the same accommodation facilities as other adult pilgrims, according to the above categories.

The accommodation dates included in each pilgrim package cannot be adjusted. The LOC is not able to arrange accommodation outside the official package dates. Pilgrims who wish to stay before or after the dates included in their package are kindly asked to make their own accommodation arrangements.

If you do not register for a package that includes accommodations, you are welcome to arrange your own lodging at any time. If you register for a package that includes accommodations provided by the LOC, your accommodation assignment will be communicated to your Group Leader approximately two to three weeks before the event.

Because visa regulations vary from country to country, pilgrims should verify the requirements applicable to their nationality. The LOC is in coordination with the Korean government to help simplify the procedure, and more information will be provided as it is confirmed.

The LOC is currently working closely with the Korean government to facilitate the visa application process for pilgrims. As with previous WYDs, pilgrims who require a visa will be able to obtain an invitation letter through the official registration system. However, visa requirements may vary depending on nationality, so pilgrims are advised to check the relevant requirements with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Korea. More detailed visa information will be provided when registration opens in October 2026.

July and August in Korea are hot, humid, and rainy. Pilgrims should be prepared for temperatures of up to 38°C, high humidity, sudden rain showers, and the possibility of typhoons.

We recommend bringing sunscreen, rain gear, a light jacket for air-conditioned indoor spaces, personal toiletries, a sleeping bag, insect repellent, a 220V travel adapter, basic medications, and your travel documents, including a passport with at least six months' validity. Please also bring modest clothing suitable for Mass and church visits.

The LOC does not arrange or coordinate private Masses. Groups with accommodation packages will be assigned to a parish, and Mass availability will be decided by the individual parishes thereafter. If you wish to schedule a private Mass, please contact the parishes directly after LOC accommodations have been confirmed, approximately one month before WYD.

At this time, the LOC has not designated any official travel or tour partners. Information on accommodations, services, and any future partner organizations will be announced through our official channels. For travel planning beyond the WYD program, pilgrims may find the VisitKOREA website operated by the Korea Tourism Organization helpful.

Please send your meeting request to inquiries@wydseoul.org, including the number of attendees, their affiliation, and your preferred meeting dates. Meetings are available on weekdays only, between 10 am and 5 pm subject to availability.

Volunteer opportunities are divided into three categories based on the nature and duration of service. 1. Long-Term Volunteers Long-term volunteers serve with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for three months or more, contributing to the preparation and planning of WYD Seoul 2027. Depending on their role and level of commitment, long-term volunteers may serve as Department Volunteers with regular working hours at the LOC, or Team Volunteers who assist out of working hours. Recruitment for domestic and international applicants will be announced separately on the official website. Those selected as international long-term volunteers will be provided with accommodation, as well as partial support for meals and local transportation. 2. Short-Term Volunteers Short-term volunteers serve during the main WYD Seoul 2027 event period and are expected to be in Seoul from July 26 to August 9, 2027. They will also participate in pre-event programs, including training and the Volunteer Commissioning Mass. Applications for short-term volunteering can be submitted through the official registration system, which is expected to open in late October 2026. 3. Parish Volunteers (Primarily for Parishioners of the Archdiocese of Seoul) Parish volunteers welcome pilgrims within their parish and local district, assisting with accommodations, catechesis venues, and other parish-based services. Recruitment, assignments, and volunteer activities are managed independently by each parish. Please note: Due to operational requirements, volunteers may be required to perform their assigned duties during certain official WYD events and, therefore, may not be able to participate in all official WYD programs.

Volunteers must be born on or before December 31, 2008, in accordance with the Youth Protection Act of the Republic of Korea. While applicants of all eligible ages are welcome, priority will be given to young adults, in keeping with WYD's mission to encourage young people to become evangelizers and missionaries in today's world. In addition, volunteers should have a strong sense of responsibility, a spirit of service, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Please note that, due to service responsibilities and operational duties, volunteers may occasionally be unable to attend certain WYD events. The LOC is currently finalising the list of required application documents. Further details will be published in due course.

Volunteers must be born on or before December 31, 2008, in accordance with the Youth Protection Act of the Republic of Korea. While applicants of all eligible ages are welcome, priority will be given to young adults, in keeping with WYD's mission to encourage young people to become evangelizers and missionaries in today's world.

With participants expected from all over the world, we will need a substantial number of volunteers to serve in diverse roles. We are in the process of preparing to accept international volunteers and will share further details on our official website and social media channels once finalized.

There are three volunteer tracks, each with its own process: Long-Term Volunteers Recruitment will be announced on the official website. Process: Application → Screening → Interview → Selection → Orientation & Training *A recommendation letter from the Bishops' Conference is required for visa issuance. Short-Term Volunteers Applications open through the official registration system in late October 2026. Process: Application → Online Training → Interview → Selection → Volunteer Package Submission → Confirmation Parish Volunteers (mainly for Archdiocese of Seoul parishioners) Applications are handled directly by your parish. Contact your parish for recruitment, selection, and assignment details.

Long-Term Volunteers (Based in Seoul for three months or more) Application details will be announced in October 2026. Short-Term Volunteers (In Seoul from July 27 to August 9, 2027) Volunteers who will serve during the main WYD Seoul 2027 events will apply through the official Volunteer Registration System that is due to open in late October 2026.

Applicants for long-term volunteer positions are required to submit the following documents: - Completed application form - Letter of recommendation International long-term volunteers may be required to submit additional documents to support visa processing and other purposes. Applicants for short-term volunteer positions are required to submit the following documents: - Completed application form - Letter of recommendation - Valid identification document - Copy of visa (if applicable) Depending on the role, applicants may be required to submit additional documents during the selection process, if necessary. Detailed information on the required documents will be provided when volunteer recruitment opens.

Applicants who are selected as short-term volunteers must choose a Volunteer Package and pay the applicable contribution fee to confirm their participation. The Volunteer Package includes benefits for the volunteer service period, such as: - Insurance - Transportation card - Volunteer kit - Accommodation - Meals Volunteers will be able to choose the package that best suits their circumstances. Detailed information on the available packages will be provided when volunteer registration opens. Please note that Volunteer Packages are available only to applicants who have completed the volunteer application process and have been officially selected.

Yes. Both long-term and short-term volunteers may indicate their preferred area of service and share details of their relevant skills and experience during the application process. All applications will be reviewed comprehensively when assigning volunteer roles. While the Local Organizing Committee will make every effort to consider each volunteer’s preferences, final assignments will be determined based on the operational needs of the event. Therefore, volunteers may not always be assigned to their preferred role.

All volunteers will need to complete an application through the Volunteer Registration System, where they indicate their skills, experience, and areas in which they would like to serve during WYD. Volunteer assignments are made based on the needs of the event and the information provided in each application. While we understand the desire to serve alongside a friend, we are unfortunately unable to guarantee that specific volunteers will be assigned to the same role or service area.

If you wish to serve as a medical volunteer, you may apply through the official registration system once volunteer registration opens in October 2026. As part of the application, you will be required to provide details of your relevant medical qualifications and professional experience.

You can find the preparatory materials on our website under the Preparatory Resources and Catechesis 2025-2026 sections. There, you will find resources explaining what WYD is, our vision for WYD Seoul 2027, and the spiritual values we are pursuing on this pilgrimage. We also recommend the Christus Vivit workbook, which is an easy-to-use resource for group preparation over nine sessions. In addition, various resources for pilgrims are currently being prepared. New materials will be announced on the official website as they become available.

We are currently preparing the materials related to the official theme song, including the audio file, instrumental track, and guidelines for translating and re-recording the song in various languages. These resources will be made available on our website once they are ready to be published. The sheet music is currently available for download on our website.

Media accreditation is intended for journalists and media professionals covering WYD Seoul 2027 on behalf of a recognized media organization. This may include reporters, photographers, videographers, camera operators, editors, producers, and other media personnel. Freelance journalists and media professionals working on behalf of a recognized media organization are also eligible. Applications must be submitted through the official media accreditation system, which will open a few months before WYD. Applicants will be required to provide personal details, media affiliation, and supporting documentation as part of the application process. Eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application schedule will be announced on the official website and social media channels.

For more information on WYD, please contact the Communications Division at media@wydseoul.org.

For guidance on the correct use of the WYD Seoul 2027 logo and to ensure brand consistency, please contact the Communications Division at commu@wydseoul.org.

The logo may be used only to encourage participation in WYD Seoul 2027 and only on your website or in printed brochures that include information about WYD Seoul 2027. The logo must not be used to imply an official partnership, endorsement, or commercial affiliation with the LOC. The logo must be reproduced in its original form and colours, and no elements or colours of the logo may be modified.

Yes. You are welcome to participate regardless of your language proficiency. Interpretation will be available for major events, and additional support, including sign language interpretation where needed, is also being prepared. At WYD, openness, mutual understanding, and shared faith matter more than speaking the same language.

Yes. International Sign (IS) interpretation will be provided for major events and other programs where needed.