Pope Leo XIV, ahead of World Youth Day in 2027, praises Korean courage

At a Monday audience celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Korean Pontifical College’s inauguration in Rome, Pope Leo XIV met with Korean clergy and reflected on their remarkable journey of faith.

As preparations gather momentum for World Youth Day in Seoul in 2027, the meeting provided an occasion to celebrate how the Church in Korea has grown into a dynamic land of missionaries.

The pope emphasized that the Korean Church’s vibrant growth rests firmly on the testimony of its martyrs. Through relentless persecution, devastating wars, crippling poverty, and national partition, Korean Catholics have continuously overcome incredible hardship.

"The Korean people have demonstrated throughout history an extraordinary strength of character,” Leo remarked.

The pope said it was a powerful testament to God’s grace that the faithful kept “the ability to go through the ordeal without losing hope and without letting suffering harden the heart.”

Pope Leo XIV receives a gift after his private audience with Korean clergy and religious at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican on Oct. 5, 2026. | Credit: Vatican Media

Drawing pastoral inspiration from history, Leo highlighted the…