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(Originally published by the Archdiocese of Seoul on May 12, 2025. Reposted with permission.)
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​In celebration of Vocations Sunday and the Jubilee Year, the Archdiocese of Seoul, in collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee for World Youth Day (WYD) 2027, hosted the dynamic and inclusive Youth Festival “Hee Hee Hee” from May 10–11. With a theme inspired by the Korean characters for Light, Hope, and Joy, the festival drew an estimated 30,000+ young participants, including 3,500 attendees at the concluding Mass alone.

This youth-led initiative was conceptualized, organized, and animated by young people themselves, who designed a vibrant, multi-zone experience featuring talk concerts, experiential booths, interactive workshops, live performances, and food markets. True to its spirit of openness, the festival welcomed people of all ages, nationalities, and religious backgrounds, creating a space of shared joy and intercultural dialogue.

Reflecting the Heart of World Youth Day

The “Hee Hee Hee” Festival was more than a local celebration—it offered a faithful preview of World Youth Day itself, mirroring key elements such as:

• Catechesis (via thematic workshops and witness talks)

• A Youth Festival (with concerts, performances, and creative spaces)

• A Vigil (held the evening of May 10)

• A Concluding Mass (on Vocations Sunday, May 11)

To help participants fully engage with the festival’s core themes of faith, vocation, and joyful witness, the entire event space was thoughtfully divided into three interactive zones: the Truth Zone, the Peace Zone, and the Love Zone. Each zone offered a distinct experience, reflecting different aspects of Christian life and providing young people with multiple pathways to encounter Christ, the Church, and one another in meaningful ways.
 

TRUTH ZONE

Located at the Catholic University Sungsin Campus (Major Seminary), the Truth Zone included the May 10 vigil and the Vocations Sunday Mass on May 11, celebrated by Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung.

In his homily, the Archbishop offered a moving call to vocational awareness:

• “In a special way this year, as we journey toward the 2027 WYD within the grace of the Jubilee Year, I earnestly hope that the 'Hee, Hee, Hee' Youth Festival will inspire more young people to open their hearts to the Lord’s call and respond with courage and faith.”

• “The Church thrives and bears fruit when it gives rise to new vocations. In many ways, the world is, perhaps unknowingly, yearning for ‘witnesses of hope’—those who testify through their very lives that following Christ is the wellspring of true joy. Let us, then, remain steadfast in the assurance that the Lord calls us with unconditional and enduring love, and let us fervently pray that He may send forth new laborers to His abundant harvest.”

The Mass drew around 3,500 young faithful, with music, liturgy, and testimonies creating a powerful atmosphere of prayer and discernment.

PEACE ZONE

• At Dongsung Middle and High School, the Peace Zone was dedicated to vocations and formation. Religious communities from across Korea welcomed youth into thoughtfully curated booths, where they explored the lives and missions of consecrated men and women.

• Among the most popular attractions was “Chat with a Religious,” which offered a relaxed setting for informal one-on-one conversations with religious sisters and brothers about their calling, daily life, and spiritual journey.

• Adding to the vibrancy, the “Oseyo Concert” was held at the adjacent Catholic Youth Center on both May 10 and 11. The concert featured dynamic performances by religious brothers and sisters, including songs and dances that showcased the distinct charisms of their respective communities. The creative and joy-filled atmosphere offered participants a fresh, personal glimpse into the diversity and vitality of consecrated life in the Church.

LOVE ZONE

• The bustling Daehak-ro car-free street became the site of the Love Zone, a festive urban space filled with interactive booths, art installations, and community engagement activities. Catholic youth groups and partner organizations used the space for outreach and expression, drawing in both festivalgoers and curious onlookers.

• A major highlight was the Talk Concert on May 11, where young Catholics, clergy, and artists shared reflections on faith, purpose, and hope in contemporary society. The format encouraged dialogue between generations and cultures, reinforcing the Church’s mission to accompany the young in their journey of life and faith.

• The “Hee Hee Hee” Youth Festival was made possible by a team of 180 youth volunteers and 60 adult staff and emphasized ecological responsibility with reusable materials and zero-waste policies. A central info desk, real-time site guidance, and participant satisfaction surveys ensured a smooth and welcoming experience for all.

• By combining spiritual depth, youthful creativity, and community openness, the festival stood as a beacon of what the Church envisions for WYD 2027—a Church alive with young people who walk in the light, live with hope, and radiate joy.