Pope John Paul II

The World Youth Day (WYD) selection process for patron saints for Seoul 2027 commenced in late 2024. This process involved a nationwide survey of young people, youth ministers and pastoral workers, followed by a review and deliberation by the Local Organizing Committee. The saints chosen for this particular event reflect the spiritual themes of truth, love and peace, with the expectation that they will provide guidance and inspiration to the young attendees.

The selection of five patron saints for WYD Seoul 2027 included Saint John Paul II, who was a pivotal figure in the Catholic Church, having served as Pope from 1978 until his death in 2005. Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, a Korean martyr, was killed in 1846, along with his companions, and is remembered for his unwavering faith despite persecution.

Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, born in 1850, was an Italian nun who dedicated her life to helping immigrants, particularly in the United States. Lastly, Saint Josephine Bakhita, born in 1869, was a Sudanese woman who was enslaved but later freed, and became a beacon of hope and resilience.

These saints were chosen through a meticulous selection process, involving a survey of young people, pastoral workers and a review by the Local Organizing Committee. A team of dedicated volunteers then spent two months researching each saint's life and spirituality. This research culminated in the creation of a dedicated prayer and a symbolic representation for each saint. The aim was to encapsulate the unique contributions each saint makes to the spiritual journey of young people today.