By Xu Aiying and Hahm Hee-eun
Photos = Cheong Wa Dae 

“If North Korea invites me, I will certainly respond to it, and I can possibly go.” 

Pope Francis decided to join the path to peace on the Korean Peninsula by responding to the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The invitation was delivered by President Moon Jae-in, when he met Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace on Oct. 18. 

President Moon told Pope Francis that when he visited Pyeongyang last month, he suggested to Chairman Kim Jong Un to meet the Pope, and that Chairman Kim said he would warmly welcome the Pope in North Korea. 

When President Moon asked whether Chairman Kim should send an invitation letter, the Pope said, “Your message is already sufficient, but an official invitation would also be nice.” Then he encouraged the president, “I strongly support the Korean government’s efforts to bring peace on the Korean Peninsula. Do not stop, move forward. Do not be afraid.” 

Pope Francis also mentioned the courage of the two Korean leaders to build a denuclearized Korean Peninsula, and said he will pray with the world for continued efforts in reconciliation and peace settlement.



After the private audience between President Moon Jae-in and Pope Francis, the Vatican announced an official statement on Oct. 18. 

“Pope Francis and President Moon Jae-in have exchanged views on the progress of inter-Korean communication and reconciliation. We are grateful for the joint efforts that resolve the tension on the Korean Peninsula, and bring about new peace and prosperity.” 

As the pope plays an important role in peace and reconciliation all over the world, his positive response to Chairman Kim’s invitation to North Korea is expected to be another turning point, toward denuclearization and peace settlement on the Korean Peninsula. This is the first time that a North Korean leader invites a pope. Thus, it could turn out to be a great opportunity to show North Korea’s willingness to accept a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula.