Pope Leo XIV officially opened registration for World Youth Day with a video message inviting young people to prepare for the event in Seoul in August 2027.
POPE LEO XIV
My dear young friends, today as registration opens for next year's World Youth Day, I warmly invite each of you to Seoul. This is not merely an invitation to see a new city. It is a call to set out on a pilgrimage of faith, friendship, and hope.
Pope Leo XIV chose to post this video message on the feast day of St. John Paul II, the pope who launched the World Youth Days and attended seven of them.
He was also the pope who urged people not to be afraid and to open their doors to Christ.
POPE LEO XIV
These words also apply to each one of you.So on this pilgrimage, bring all that you are and all that you carry in your hearts, including your dreams, desires, and hopes, as well as your wounds and struggles. The Lord is waiting for you in this place of encounter and communion.
Registration is done through the official website. First, the group leader must register, and then add members. Pilgrim packages cost between $70 and $340, depending on whether they include lodging and meals.
Pope Benedict XVI attended three World Youth Days, the first of which was in Germany in 2005. Pope Francis has attended four, beginning with the one in Rio in 2013.
This will be the first event organized by Pope Leo XIV in Asia, as it invites young people from around the world.
POPE LEO XIV
I look forward to seeing you in Seoul. In the meantime, may God bless you and your loved ones.
