Lee asks Pope Leo XIV to visit South Korea next August, raises North Korea trip possibility with Vatican secretary of state

President Lee Jae Myung met privately with Pope Leo XIV on Monday (local time) during an official visit to the Vatican, requesting that the pontiff visit South Korea next August.

National Security Director Wi Sung-lac briefed reporters at the Korean press center in Rome, saying Lee and the pope agreed to work closely together to ensure the success of the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day.

Wi said Lee conveyed to the pope "the Korean people's desire for peace on the Korean Peninsula and the government's vision," and reaffirmed the Holy See's unwavering support for peace and reconciliation on the peninsula.

During the 30-minute audience, both sides agreed on the need for cooperation toward peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula. Various measures to improve inter-Korean relations were also discussed, according to officials.

Lee then met separately with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to discuss avenues for cooperation with the Holy See.

In that meeting, Lee thanked Parolin for the Catholic Church's contributions to the development of democracy in South Korea, and asked that the pope visit North Korea in the interest of peace on the peninsula.

Lee is also believed to have made a similar direct request for a papal visit to North Korea during his private audience with the pope earlier in the day.

Lee is scheduled to attend a luncheon with members of the Korean community in Italy, where he will offer encouragement and hear their concerns.

The government plans to consult with Italian authorities on issues raised at the gathering and seek ways to address them.