Seoul (AsiaNews) - Both two Popes have close relations with the Korean Church. Pope John XXIII was the Apostolic Nuncio to France in 1948. During the 3rd United Nations General Assembly, he introduced the Chief of the Korean Delegation, Dr. Chang Myon (Baptism name: John), to over 50 representatives and helped the Korean Government earn its international recognition.
On March 10, 1962, Pope John XXIII elevated the Vicariate Apostolic of Seoul, Daegu, and Gwangju to Archdioceses. Pope John II visited Korea twice. In 1984, he participated in the event to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Korean Church and the canonization ceremony of 103 Korean Saints; in 1989, he came to Seoul for the World Eucharistic Congress.
It is no exaggeration to say that Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II have built the foundation of the modern Church. When the Church was like a lost boat drifting in the waves of the rapid-changing world, instead of just pointing out to the right direction, they played the role of a boatman and rowed the boat with their own hands.
Therefore, I am very honored to participate in the canonization ceremony of Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II, with the grateful heart to what they have contributed to the Korean Church.