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Gov't engages in talks at Vatican as Seoul prepares for World Youth Day 2027

Published: 06 May. 2024, 14:55

YIM SEUNG-HYE
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Culture Minister Yu In-chon, right, has a meeting with Korean Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik on May 3 at the Vatican in Rome, Italy, to talk about the World Youth Day, which is slated to take place in Seoul in 2027. [MINISTRY OF CULTURE, SPORTS AND TOURISM]

ROME, Italy — Culture Minister Yu In-chon met with Korean Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik on May 3 during his recent trip to Paris and discussed the World Youth Day, slated to take place in Seoul in 2027.

“As such a significant international event that draws many people to the country will be held in Seoul, the Korean government will ensure we have ample discussions to prepare for it thoroughly,” Yu told the cardinal during the meeting inside the Vatican in Rome, Italy.

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World Youth Day is an international gathering of Catholic youth, held every two to four years in a different global city. Participants can number in the millions.

Seoul was announced as the host city for the next event last August, becoming the second Asian host following the Philippines in 1995.

Cardinal You asked for the Korean government's support, citing issues such as budget and visas, as well as securing a large venue for an overnight prayer gathering and a closing Mass.

"In other countries, the closing Mass is usually held at the airport, but it is difficult for Korea to authorize that for security reasons," said You, adding that he feels very cautious to say this, but he suggests, for example, the Gimpo Metropolitan Landfill, which is close to the airport and Seoul, as a good candidate.

He said there is a need for diplomatic cooperation due to potential participants aiming to engage in illegal immigration.

“Therefore, this event requires organic support from the central and local governments,” said You.

BY YIM SEUNG-HYE [[email protected]]