• Depart for Seoul, South Korea

• Arrive in Seoul (or nearby city) & transfer to hotel

• WYD opening ceremonies

• Morning catechesis
• Sightseeing tour (morning)
• Participation in the WYD Youth Festival (late afternoon)

• Morning catechesis
• Papal Welcome Ceremony with Pope Leo XIV

• Morning catechesis
• WYD Youth Festival
• Way of the Cross

• Pilgrimage walk
• Prayer vigil
• Vigil prayer service with Pope Leo XIV (evening)

• Papal Mass

Seoul – The Heart of Faith

We will begin our day with Morning Mass at Myeongdong Cathedral, an iconic Catholic site in Seoul. Next, we’ll visit the Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine, a significant location from the 1866 Byeong-in persecution. After that, we’ll explore the Korean Catholic History Museum, then visit Yakhyeon Catholic Church, the first Western-style church in Korea. We’ll wrap up the day with dinner at your hotel.

Gwangju & Haemi Martyrs’ Shrine

Traveling to Haemi Fortress, visitors will find the Haemi Martyrs’ Shrine, a site of profound significance where 2,000 Catholics were martyred. After reflecting on this important history, we will celebrate Mass at the Haemi Shrine Chapel, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. Following the sacred moments at the chapel, the journey will continue with a drive to Gwangju. The day will conclude with dinner and an overnight stay in either Gwangju or the nearby Daejeon area, allowing for rest and reflection before the next adventures.

Solmoe & Dangjin

Start by visiting the Solmoe Shrine, the birthplace of Korea’s first priest, St. Andrew Kim Taegon. Explore the museum and take a peaceful walk along the pilgrimage trail before celebrating outdoor Mass at Solmoe Hill. Then, head to Dangjin to visit the Naepo Catholic Martyrs’ Shrine. Finally, return to Seoul for dinner and a restful night, reflecting on the day’s meaningful experiences.

Korean Culture & Faith

On our first morning, we will visit Gyeongbokgung Palace to explore Korea’s royal history. Next, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, enjoying its traditional charm. After lunch in Insadong, we will visit the Catholic University of Korea. The afternoon will be free for you to relax and explore the city on your own before we come together for dinner at your hotel.

Pilgrim’s Retreat & Farewell

The day began with a morning retreat-style prayer and reflection session, allowing everyone to connect spiritually and set a contemplative tone. Following this, we visited the Seosomun Shrine History Museum, an underground museum dedicated to faith and martyrdom, which offered profound insights into the history of devotion in the region. As the day came to a close, we celebrated a heartfelt closing Mass, bringing everyone together in a moment of unity and reverence. Finally, we gathered for a farewell dinner, sharing stories and memories before settling in for the night in Seoul.

Departure

You will transfer to the airport this morning for your return flight home.