President Lee to visit Vatican, address special Mass for peace and solidarity

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung is set to undertake an official visit to the Vatican on June 14-15, following his state visit to Italy. The trip aims to convey South Korea's firm commitment to peace and solidarity in a rapidly changing international landscape.

On June 14, President Lee will begin his Vatican engagement by attending a special Mass for peace and solidarity at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. He is also scheduled to deliver a commemorative speech during the Mass. During his visit, he will meet with Korean clergy, including Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, the first Korean to head the Congregation for the Clergy.

The following day, June 15, the President will hold a private audience with Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace. Following this, he will meet with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State.

According to National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac, the meeting with the Pope and the President's address are expected to reaffirm the Holy See's consistent interest and support for peace on the Korean Peninsula. The visit is seen as a significant opportunity to communicate South Korea's diplomatic stance on global peace and inter-Korean relations.

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The meeting with the Pope, the symbol of world peace, and the President's speech at the special Mass will be an opportunity to convey to the world South Korea's firm will regarding peace and solidarity in the rapidly changing international environment, while also reaffirming the Holy See's unwavering interest and support for peace on the Korean Peninsula.