Could Pope Leo XIV Visit North Korea for Peace?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A significant move by South Korea's National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, who has reached out to the Vatican, proposing a visit by Pope Leo XIV to North Korea. This could be a monumental step toward peace on the Korean Peninsula, especially in light of the upcoming World Youth Day in Seoul. Will this gesture pave the way for dialogue?
Key Takeaways
- Woo Won-shik has reached out to the Vatican for a potential visit by Pope Leo XIV to North Korea.
- The visit is aimed at promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula.
- The 2027 World Youth Day in Seoul could serve as an ideal backdrop for this visit.
- The Vatican supports the dialogue efforts between South Korea and North Korea.
- Woo's trip includes discussions on bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
Seoul, Oct 22 (NationPress) The Speaker of South Korea's National Assembly, Woo Won-shik, has sent a formal letter to the Vatican, urging Pope Leo XIV to visit North Korea in a bid to foster peace on the Korean Peninsula, according to officials on Wednesday.
During a discussion with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, Woo emphasized that such a visit would be profoundly significant for both international and inter-Korean peace, particularly coinciding with the upcoming World Youth Day scheduled to take place in Seoul in August 2027, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
"With an expected participation of between 400,000 and 1 million young individuals from across the globe, this gathering will present a valuable opportunity to promote the principles of peace and unity," he stated. "We aspire for this event to represent a pivotal moment for peace on the Korean Peninsula."
Parolin expressed his disappointment regarding the halt in inter-Korean dialogues and reaffirmed the Vatican's support for South Korea's initiatives aimed at rekindling discussions with the North.
"The Vatican stands firmly behind the South Korean government's and parliament's endeavors to achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula," he remarked, ensuring that he would convey the letter to the pope.
World Youth Day is a significant event that gathers Catholic youth worldwide for prayer, community, and engagement with the pope. It typically occurs every two to three years, with the pope's participation being a crucial aspect.
In Rome, Woo also met with Lorenzo Fontana, the President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, and Gian Marco Centinaio, Vice President of the Italian Senate, to explore avenues for enhancing cooperation, including accelerating visa processing for South Korean businesses in Italy.
Currently, Woo is undertaking a 10-day journey through Portugal, Italy, and Spain to discuss bilateral partnerships related to supply chains, renewable energy, and other critical matters.
Point of View
It is vital to acknowledge South Korea's proactive diplomacy in inviting the Pope to North Korea. This initiative could symbolize a significant step toward rekindling dialogue and fostering peace on the Korean Peninsula. The collaboration between governmental entities and religious figures may pave the way for a peaceful resolution to longstanding tensions.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Woo Won-shik's letter to the Pope?
The letter aims to invite Pope Leo XIV to visit North Korea to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula, especially coinciding with the 2027 World Youth Day in Seoul.
What is World Youth Day?
World Youth Day is a global event that gathers Catholic youth for prayer, fellowship, and interaction with the Pope, typically held every two to three years.
What was Cardinal Parolin's reaction to inter-Korean talks?
Cardinal Parolin expressed regret over the suspension of inter-Korean talks and voiced support for South Korea's efforts to resume dialogue with North Korea.
