"Pope Encourages Fearless Youth as World Youth Day Returns to Asia in 2027"

Pope Francis concluded World Youth Day in Portugal by announcing that the next edition in 2027 will be held in Seoul, South Korea, marking the return of the event to Asia after three decades. The decision reflects the growing importance of the Catholic Church in Asia, where it is young and thriving, in contrast to its decline in traditionally Christian regions of Europe. The announcement was made during a Mass attended by an estimated 1.5 million pilgrims, and the event was seen as a success with a massive turnout from young people from various countries. Pope Francis urged the youth to follow their dreams and not be afraid, emphasizing their importance to the Church and the world.