South Korean President Asks Pope Francis to Visit DMZ, North Korea

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has formally requested Pope Francis to consider visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and North Korea during his planned trip to South Korea next year.

The request was made during a 30-minute private meeting between President Lee and Pope Francis at the Vatican Apostolic Palace on June 15th. The Pope is expected to visit South Korea in 2027 to attend the World Youth Day, a major Catholic gathering.

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I requested that he consider visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and if possible, North Korea, during his visit to South Korea next year for the World Youth Day.

President Lee conveyed the South Korean people's desire for peace on the Korean Peninsula and the government's initiatives. Pope Francis reportedly responded positively, stating that he would actively consider the proposal. This interaction highlights the Vatican's continued interest in peace and reconciliation efforts in the region.

Previously, National Security Advisor Satellite Rock had briefed reporters that President Lee had discussed South Korea's peace policies with the Pope and reaffirmed the Holy See's unwavering support for peace on the peninsula. The potential visit by the Pope to the DMZ and North Korea, if realized, could carry significant symbolic weight for inter-Korean relations and regional stability.

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The Pope also said he would actively consider and pursue it.