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6d ago

South Koreans Begin Mourning Pope Francis at Myeongdong Cathedral

The late pope is remembered for his humility, peace efforts, and solidarity with victims of national tragedies, leaving a profound impact on Korean society.

Acting President Han Duck-soo pays tribute at the memorial altar for the late Pope Francis set up at Myeongdong Cathedral in downtown Seoul on April 22, 2025. (Yonhap)
Acting President Han Duck-soo leaves Myeongdong Cathedral in central Seoul on April 22, 2025, after visiting the memorial altar of the late Pope Francis. (Yonhap)
A picture of Pope Francis is hung on the outer wall of Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul on April 22, 2025. (Yonhap)
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Overview

  • Public mourning for Pope Francis has commenced at Seoul's Myeongdong Cathedral, with a memorial space opened the day after his passing.
  • The pope’s 2014 visit to Korea marked a significant moment as he consoled families of Sewol ferry disaster victims and celebrated Korean Catholic martyrs.
  • In 2022, he prayed for the victims of the Itaewon crowd crush and expressed willingness to visit North Korea to promote peace on the peninsula.
  • Pope Francis was expected to attend the 2027 World Youth Day in Seoul, a reflection of Korea's growing role in the global Catholic community.
  • Catholics and non-believers alike honor his legacy of humility, advocacy for justice, and efforts to advance reconciliation in Korea.