Prayers for peace echo within these walls. We are standing before the Apostolic Nunciature in Korea. This embassy of the Holy See in Seoul represents the Pope in South Korea. The Apostolic Nunciature in Korea is more than just a building. It is a symbol of diplomacy and faith.
The history of the Apostolic Nunciature to Korea began in 1949. On April 7, 1949, the Delegation to Korea was established. Later, on December 31, 1963, it was elevated to Nunciature to Korea. This transition marked a significant step in the relationship between the Holy See and Korea. On September 5, 1966, the Nunciature to Korea was further elevated to an Internunciature.
The role of the Apostolic Nunciature in Korea involves various responsibilities. The Apostolic Nuncio serves as the Pope’s representative. He promotes relations between the Holy See and South Korea. The nuncio also supports the Catholic community in the country. The current Apostolic Nuncio is Giovanni Gaspari. He assumed the role on March 2, 2024.
Several individuals have served as papal representatives to Korea. Patrick James Byrne was the Apostolic Delegate starting April 7, 1949. Egano Righi-Lambertini followed on December 28, 1957. Ippolito Rotoli became the Apostolic Pro-Nuncio on September 2, 1967. Ivan Dias was appointed Apostolic Nuncio on June 20, 1986. These leaders have each contributed to the strengthening of ties.
The Apostolic Nunciature to Korea also plays a role in promoting peace. In 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un invited Pope Francis to visit North Korea. This invitation was relayed through South Korean President Moon Jae-in. The Holy See consistently refers to “Korea,” not specifying North or South Korea.
Archbishop Alfred Xuereb, a previous Apostolic Nuncio, emphasized the Pope’s support. He conveyed Pope Francis’s commitment to peace and reconciliation on the Korean peninsula. Xuereb also pledged to further the unity of Catholics in the country.
The Catholic Church in South Korea has been actively praying for reunification. For over two decades, they have gathered every Tuesday at Seoul Cathedral. They implore the Virgin Mary for the grace of reunification.
Pope Francis visited South Korea in 2014. During his visit, he dedicated a Mass in Seoul’s Myeongdong Cathedral to reconciliation. He urged Koreans to reject suspicion and confrontation. He encouraged them to build new paths to peace.
As we stand here, remember the Apostolic Nunciature in Korea symbolizes hope. It represents the ongoing efforts for peace. It shows the enduring faith of the Catholic community in Korea.