South Korean President Lee Jae Myung extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit South Korea next year in light of the country’s hosting of World Youth Day 2027. The invitation was offered during a meeting between the two leaders at the Vatican as part of President Lee’s European tour.
Both leaders agreed to collaborate closely to ensure the success of World Youth Day 2027. President Lee officially invited Pope Leo XIV to South Korea for the event, as confirmed by national security advisor Wi Sung-lac during a press briefing. Additionally, President Lee briefed the Pope on South Korea’s efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula, with the Vatican expressing steadfast support for peace initiatives in the region.
During their meeting, President Lee and Pope Leo XIV also discussed inter-Korean issues, emphasizing the importance of continued cross-border dialogue and cooperation despite challenges in the political landscape. The potential visit of the Pope to North Korea was also a topic of discussion, as South Korea aims to utilize the Vatican’s involvement in fostering peace with Pyongyang.
President Lee’s commitment to peace efforts was reiterated during a special Mass in Rome, where he highlighted the significance of past inter-Korean agreements in paving the way for dialogue and cooperation. Referring to the hope for peace with North Korea, President Lee emphasized his administration’s dedication to easing tensions and building a sustainable peace framework on the Korean Peninsula.
