More than 400 representatives from over 100 countries recently concluded a four-day international preparatory meeting in Seoul, South Korea, laying the groundwork for World Youth Day (WYD) 2027. Organised jointly by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life and the Local Organising Committee, the gathering brought together delegates from more than 160 dioceses, religious congregations, and ecclesial movements to align on practical logistical planning and pastoral vision.
Addressing delegates at the conclusion of the event on 17 September, Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung of Seoul emphasised that inviting young people to World Youth Day is far more than an administrative task. He urged organisers to look beyond merely filling participant lists, reminding them that their true mission is inviting young people into a meaningful, transformative encounter with God.
With the preparatory meeting concluded, delegates now turn to mobilizing their local communities worldwide. To support their efforts, the conference provided practical demonstrations of registration tools, pilgrim apps, travel logistics, and potential event venues. Korean dioceses are also preparing local host programs to welcome international visitors prior to the main event.
World Youth Day will take place in Seoul from 3 to 8 August 2027, marking the first time the global gathering returns to Asia since Manila hosted in 1995. Official registration for international pilgrims is scheduled to open at the end of October.