- 04 October, 2026
Seoul, October 4, 2026: As the Catholic Church prepares for World Youth Day (WYD) Seoul 2027, the Local Organising Committee has opened recruitment for around 70 international long-term volunteers who will help prepare for and support the global gathering.
The volunteers will serve from the second half of 2026 until the end of WYD Seoul in August 2027, working alongside the Korean Church and international teams as preparations gather pace.
The opportunity is aimed at Catholics willing to offer their skills, time and energy in the service of young people coming from across the world.
International volunteers will be involved in a wide range of areas, including translation and interpretation, pilgrim support, volunteer training, communication with bishops’ conferences and religious institutes, transport and accommodation, registration and major events.
Specific opportunities are available for those with language skills, including English, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese, as well as languages spoken widely in Asia.
Volunteers may also assist with social media, website content, newsletters, digital communications, safeguarding, event registration and administrative work.
For applicants from India and neighbouring countries, a specific pilgrim-support role is listed for assisting pilgrims from India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka, including registration, visa guidance and responses to enquiries.
The programme is open to Catholics born in 2007 or earlier who can travel to South Korea during the second half of 2026 and remain there until August 2027.
Applicants should be able to communicate fluently in English or Korean, with Korean preferred, and should be comfortable working with people of different nationalities, cultures, generations and backgrounds.
Professional knowledge or practical experience relevant to the Local Organising Committee is also sought. Previous WYD volunteering, Church communications, journalism, languages, digital media, administration, customer service and event experience may be valuable depending on the role.
Applicants must also demonstrate dedication, integrity, teamwork and a willingness to serve.
Applications began on 29 September 2026 and will remain open until recruitment is completed, although the process may close earlier if sufficient applicants are received.
Candidates must first complete an online application form in English or Korean, followed by a one-page résumé and two recommendation letters — one from a priest or religious and another from a supervisor, teacher, mentor or similar person.
The selection process includes document review, a first online interview with the Volunteers Division and a second interview with the relevant division, followed by final selection and visa preparation.
The Local Organising Committee says no payment is requested at any stage.
International long-term volunteers will normally serve on weekdays, around 40 hours a week, with accommodation in a religious community or dormitory and weekday lunch vouchers provided. Partial support is available for transport and meals, while return airfares and other living expenses are not covered.
Volunteers serving in South Korea for three months or more will require the appropriate visa.
The opportunity is more than an international experience. It is a chance for young Catholics to place their talents at the service of the Church and help welcome thousands of young people to Seoul.
For those ready to serve, WYD Seoul 2027 could become a year in which faith, friendship and mission come together.
Click here to register as a volunteer for WYD Seoul 2027.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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