Whether you're a pilgrim, parent, or group leader, this FAQ is here to help.
Explore the sections below for answers to the most common questions about World Youth Day and traveling with JMJ Youth.
Explore the sections below for answers to the most common questions about World Youth Day and traveling with JMJ Youth.
1. JMJ Youth and World Youth Day
What is JMJ Youth?
JMJ Youth is the leading Catholic group pilgrimage operator. Our mission is to create opportunities for young people to encounter Christ through pilgrimage, especially through World Youth Day.
We help dioceses, parishes, schools, movements, families, and group leaders organize meaningful Catholic pilgrimage experiences with strong logistics and a clear spiritual purpose.
We help dioceses, parishes, schools, movements, families, and group leaders organize meaningful Catholic pilgrimage experiences with strong logistics and a clear spiritual purpose.
How long has JMJ Youth been organizing pilgrimages?
JMJ’s mission began with founder Steve Kerekes’ participation in World Youth Day in Denver in 1993 and has grown through decades of leading youth pilgrimages; he has taken young people to every World Youth Day since then. JMJ Youth has operated as a formal tour operator since 2000.
What makes JMJ Youth different?
From our inception, everything we do has been shaped by one question: "How can this pilgrimage help young people encounter Christ?"
While our 30 years of pilgrimage and World Youth Day experience provide invaluable knowledge and expertise, what truly sets JMJ Youth apart is our ministry-first approach to pilgrimage. Our aim is not simply to move pilgrims from one place to another, but to create opportunities for encounter with Christ.
That philosophy comes to life through faithful, carefully selected JMJ Guides who accompany pilgrims as joyful witnesses of the Catholic faith, and through thoughtful planning that allows group leaders to focus on their young people rather than logistics. Our goal is not simply to bring pilgrims to World Youth Day; our goal is to help them fully enter into the experience, be open to what God is calling them to through it, and return home transformed.
While our 30 years of pilgrimage and World Youth Day experience provide invaluable knowledge and expertise, what truly sets JMJ Youth apart is our ministry-first approach to pilgrimage. Our aim is not simply to move pilgrims from one place to another, but to create opportunities for encounter with Christ.
That philosophy comes to life through faithful, carefully selected JMJ Guides who accompany pilgrims as joyful witnesses of the Catholic faith, and through thoughtful planning that allows group leaders to focus on their young people rather than logistics. Our goal is not simply to bring pilgrims to World Youth Day; our goal is to help them fully enter into the experience, be open to what God is calling them to through it, and return home transformed.
2. What to Expect at World Youth Day Seoul
what is world youth day?
World Youth Day is a gathering of young people from around the world with the Holy Father to encounter Christ and experience the universal Church.
It includes prayer, catechesis, sacraments, cultural events, major gatherings with the Pope, and the final weekend vigil and Mass.
At a deeper level, WYD helps young people see that the Catholic faith is alive, universal, and bigger than their parish, school, country, or personal experience.
It includes prayer, catechesis, sacraments, cultural events, major gatherings with the Pope, and the final weekend vigil and Mass.
At a deeper level, WYD helps young people see that the Catholic faith is alive, universal, and bigger than their parish, school, country, or personal experience.
IS WORLD YOUTH DAY A VACATION?
No. World Youth Day is a pilgrimage.
Pilgrims should expect walking, waiting, large crowds, simple conditions, schedule changes, physical fatigue, prayer, joy, and sacrifice.
This sacrifice and discomfort is part of the pilgrimage experience. It helps pilgrims step outside comfort and enter more deeply into the encounter with Christ, the Holy Father, and the universal Church.
Pilgrims should expect walking, waiting, large crowds, simple conditions, schedule changes, physical fatigue, prayer, joy, and sacrifice.
This sacrifice and discomfort is part of the pilgrimage experience. It helps pilgrims step outside comfort and enter more deeply into the encounter with Christ, the Holy Father, and the universal Church.
What happens during World Youth Day week?
The final schedule for Seoul will be confirmed by the official World Youth Day organizers. Traditionally, WYD week includes:
- Opening Mass
- Catechesis sessions
- Youth Festival events: concerts, cultural events, dynamic talks
- Opportunities for prayer and sacraments: Adoration, Confession
- Welcoming Ceremony with the Holy Father
- Stations of the Cross with the Holy Father
- Pilgrimage Walk to the vigil site
- Evening vigil and Adoration with the Holy Father
- Overnight camping at the vigil site
- Final Mass at the vigil site with the Holy Father
Will the Seoul schedule be finalized before departure?
Many details, such as your group's flights, lodging, airport transfers, and basic itinerary, will be confirmed and shared well before departure. However, because World Youth Day is a large international event, some official schedules, venues, and event logistics may not be finalized until closer to the pilgrimage and may continue to change. We will communicate updates as they become available, and we ask pilgrims to embrace the joyful flexibility that is part of every World Youth Day experience!
Will there be a lot of walking?
Yes. Pilgrims should expect a lot of walking.
World Youth Day is a feet-on-the-ground pilgrimage. Groups will likely use a mix of walking, public transportation, and group transportation depending on the itinerary and local arrangements.
Pilgrims should physically prepare before departure by walking regularly and getting used to long days on their feet.
World Youth Day is a feet-on-the-ground pilgrimage. Groups will likely use a mix of walking, public transportation, and group transportation depending on the itinerary and local arrangements.
Pilgrims should physically prepare before departure by walking regularly and getting used to long days on their feet.
Will we sleep outside during the vigil?
Yes, pilgrims should expect to stay overnight at or near the final vigil site.
Sleeping outdoors at the vigil site is one of the central experiences of World Youth Day. It is not a hotel night. Pilgrims should be prepared for crowds, simple conditions, limited comfort, and the unique experience of praying, singing, dancing and waiting with pilgrims from around the world.
Sleeping outdoors at the vigil site is one of the central experiences of World Youth Day. It is not a hotel night. Pilgrims should be prepared for crowds, simple conditions, limited comfort, and the unique experience of praying, singing, dancing and waiting with pilgrims from around the world.
Is the vigil optional?
Group leaders should not promise individual exceptions.
The vigil and final Mass are central parts of the WYD experience. Pilgrims should plan to participate in the pilgrimage walk to the vigil site on Saturday, sleep under the stars, and return to their lodging after the closing Mass on Sunday. Transportation back to the city during the vigil is generally not available, except for a limited number of individuals, such as bishops.
Any serious medical, accessibility, or safety concern should be raised with the parish or diocesan group leader as early as possible so it can be escalated to JMJ Youth if needed.
The vigil and final Mass are central parts of the WYD experience. Pilgrims should plan to participate in the pilgrimage walk to the vigil site on Saturday, sleep under the stars, and return to their lodging after the closing Mass on Sunday. Transportation back to the city during the vigil is generally not available, except for a limited number of individuals, such as bishops.
Any serious medical, accessibility, or safety concern should be raised with the parish or diocesan group leader as early as possible so it can be escalated to JMJ Youth if needed.
What should pilgrims bring to the vigil?
Final instructions will be provided closer to departure. In general, pilgrims should expect to bring only what they need for the day and overnight, such as:
Pilgrims should not bring unnecessary valuables. WYD provides simple boxed meals for the vigil.
- Small backpack
- Sleeping bag
- Water bottle
- Simple snacks, if allowed
- Basic toiletries
- Medication
- Light layer or rain protection
- Sun protection
- Phone and portable charger
- Official WYD materials, if needed
- Whatever JMJ Youth or the group leader specifically instructs
Pilgrims should not bring unnecessary valuables. WYD provides simple boxed meals for the vigil.
3. Registration and Account Management
Where do I register?
Use the official registration link provided by your group leader or JMJ Youth.
Do not use another link unless your group leader confirms it is correct.
Do not use another link unless your group leader confirms it is correct.
What email should I use to register?
Use one email address and keep using that same email every time you log back in.
Do not create multiple accounts with different emails. Duplicate accounts create payment, registration, and tracking problems.
Do not create multiple accounts with different emails. Duplicate accounts create payment, registration, and tracking problems.
How do i log back into my account?
Your account can be accessed at jmjyouth.wetravel.com. Use the same email address you used when you registered.
If you cannot find your trip or payment plan, do not create a new account. Contact your group leader and provide the email address you used.
If you cannot find your trip or payment plan, do not create a new account. Contact your group leader and provide the email address you used.
What if i forgot my password?
Use the JMJ Youth WeTravel password reset process first.
If that does not work, contact your group leader and provide:
If that does not work, contact your group leader and provide:
- Your full legal name
- Email used in WeTravel
- Parish or subgroup
- Screenshot or error message, if available
What if I created two accounts?
Do not create another account.
Contact your group leader and provide:
The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
Contact your group leader and provide:
- Your full legal name
- All emails used
- Parish or subgroup
- Description of what happened
The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
what if I registered under the wrong name?
Your registration name must match your passport or legal travel document exactly.
If your name is incorrect, do not create a new registration. Begin by logging in and editing your information. If it is still not resolved please contact your group leader. The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth for correction.
If your name is incorrect, do not create a new registration. Begin by logging in and editing your information. If it is still not resolved please contact your group leader. The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth for correction.
What if my parent registered me and entered their own information?
The traveler’s information must be entered correctly. If a parent or guardian accidentally entered their own information instead of the participant’s information, please contact the group leader. The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth for correction.
What If I selected the wrong package?
Do not register again and do not submit a second payment.
Contact your group leader with your full name, your JMJ Youth WeTravel email, and a description of the issue. The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
Contact your group leader with your full name, your JMJ Youth WeTravel email, and a description of the issue. The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
4. Payments
How do I make payments?
Payments should be made through the official registration & payment page provided by your group leader. Here is a helpful article.
Use the same JMJ Youth WeTravel account and email each time.
Use the same JMJ Youth WeTravel account and email each time.
What are the payment deadlines?
Follow the payment schedule provided by your group leader, group contract, or registration page.
What IF I paid but my account still shows a balance due?
Payments can take up to 5-7 days to process. Here is a helpful article on pending payments.
If the issue persists, contact your group leader and provide:
The group leader should escalate the issue to JMJ Youth.
If the issue persists, contact your group leader and provide:
- Full legal name
- JMJ Youth WeTravel email
- Payment date
- Payment amount
- Payment method
- Screenshot or receipt
The group leader should escalate the issue to JMJ Youth.
what if my payment failed?
Do not keep trying repeatedly if you are unsure whether the payment went through.
Take a screenshot if possible, then contact your group leader with your full name, JMJ Youth WeTravel email, and the payment error.
Take a screenshot if possible, then contact your group leader with your full name, JMJ Youth WeTravel email, and the payment error.
What if I accidentally paid twice?
Do not make another payment.
Contact your group leader and provide the payment details and proof of payment. Duplicate payments must be escalated to JMJ Youth.
Contact your group leader and provide the payment details and proof of payment. Duplicate payments must be escalated to JMJ Youth.
can I pay late?
Group leaders cannot approve late payments or waive late fees.
If you are struggling to make a payment or believe there is an issue, contact your group leader early so the issue can be escalated before it becomes more serious.
If you are struggling to make a payment or believe there is an issue, contact your group leader early so the issue can be escalated before it becomes more serious.
5. Fundraising and Contribution Links
can people contribute to my pilgrimage?
If your trip page includes a contribution or fundraising link, you may share that link according to your group’s instructions.
Please make your benefactors aware that their bank statements will show the words "WYD Seoul" and WeTravel.com".
Please make your benefactors aware that their bank statements will show the words "WYD Seoul" and WeTravel.com".
Where do i find my contribution link?
Check your JMJ Youth WeTravel account or the instructions provided by your group leader. Here is a helpful article.
If you cannot find it, ask your group leader.
If you cannot find it, ask your group leader.
what if a contribution does not appear on my account?
Contact your group leader and provide:
The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
- Your full legal name
- JMJ Youth WeTravel email
- Donor name, if known
- Amount contributed
- Date of contribution
- Screenshot or receipt, if available
The issue should be escalated to JMJ Youth.
Can contributions be transferred to another participant?
Do not assume contributions can be moved. Any request to transfer, correct, or reassign funds must be escalated to JMJ Youth through your group leader.
6. Cancellations, Replacements and Late Fees
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation fees are based on the date the cancellation is received:
Always refer to your group’s official terms.
- Upon deposit: deposit non-refundable
- 12 months before departure: 25% of total trip cost
- 9 months before departure: 50% of total trip cost
- 6 months before departure: 70% of total trip cost
- 3 months before departure: 100% of total trip cost
Always refer to your group’s official terms.
Can my group leader approve my cancellation?
No. Group leaders cannot approve cancellations, refunds, or replacements.
These issues must be reviewed by JMJ Youth because they may involve supplier deadlines, airline rules, registration deadlines, group terms, and payment status.
These issues must be reviewed by JMJ Youth because they may involve supplier deadlines, airline rules, registration deadlines, group terms, and payment status.
Can I replace a participant?
Replacement requests must be escalated to JMJ Youth and reviewed based on timing, registration status, flight status, documentation, and supplier rules.
7. Travel Insurance
Is travel insurance included?
No. Travel insurance is not included in the package price.
Each participant or family is responsible for reviewing and purchasing their own insurance policy.
Each participant or family is responsible for reviewing and purchasing their own insurance policy.
Does JMJ Youth recommend travel insurance?
Yes. JMJ Youth strongly recommends travel insurance for every pilgrim.
Is JMJ Youth an insurance provider?
No. JMJ Youth is not an insurance provider.
JMJ Youth cannot purchase insurance on behalf of participants and cannot choose a plan for participants.
JMJ Youth cannot purchase insurance on behalf of participants and cannot choose a plan for participants.
Which insurance should I choose?
Participants should review available options carefully and choose the plan that best fits their personal situation.
JMJ Youth may recommend Volunteer Card as an option, but participants may also use another provider if acceptable to their group, school, parish, or diocese.
JMJ Youth may recommend Volunteer Card as an option, but participants may also use another provider if acceptable to their group, school, parish, or diocese.
Can JMJ Youth explain what a policy covers?
No. Coverage questions should be directed to the insurance provider.
Group leaders and JMJ Youth should not interpret insurance policy terms, exclusions, claims, medical coverage, or cancellation benefits.
Group leaders and JMJ Youth should not interpret insurance policy terms, exclusions, claims, medical coverage, or cancellation benefits.
Is insurance required?
Insurance is not required by JMJ Youth, but a school, parish, or diocese may have its own internal requirements. Participants should follow any requirements set by their own group. JMJ Youth strongly recommends it.
What if I have a claim?
Contact the insurance provider directly.
If your claim involves a cancellation, medical issue, or trip disruption, please inform your group leader so the appropriate people are aware. However, insurance claims are handled directly by the insurance provider.
If your claim involves a cancellation, medical issue, or trip disruption, please inform your group leader so the appropriate people are aware. However, insurance claims are handled directly by the insurance provider.
8. Documents, Passports & Legal Names
Do I need a passport?
Yes. Every international traveler needs a valid passport.
Participants are responsible for obtaining their own passport.
Participants are responsible for obtaining their own passport.
How long does my passport need to be valid?
A common travel rule is to have at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates.
Participants should check the official entry requirements for their citizenship and travel documents.
Participants should check the official entry requirements for their citizenship and travel documents.
Does my name need to match my passport?
Yes. Your registration name must match your passport or legal travel document exactly.
If it does not match, contact your group leader immediately. The issue should be escalated for correction.
If it does not match, contact your group leader immediately. The issue should be escalated for correction.
what if I do not have a passport yet?
Begin the passport process as soon as possible.
Tell your group leader if your passport may be delayed or if you may not receive it in time.
Tell your group leader if your passport may be delayed or if you may not receive it in time.
What if I lose my passport while abroad?
Contact your group leader immediately.
U.S. citizens whose passport is lost or stolen abroad generally need to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.
Participants should keep a scanned copy of their passport in a secure place.
U.S. citizens whose passport is lost or stolen abroad generally need to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.
Participants should keep a scanned copy of their passport in a secure place.
Do i need a visa or travel authorization?
Entry requirements depend on citizenship, passport, and travel rules in effect at the time of travel.
Participants are responsible for confirming and obtaining any visa, travel authorization, or entry document required for their citizenship.
For U.S. citizens, group leaders should not give legal immigration advice. Any visa, non-U.S. passport, dual citizenship, green card, or immigration-status question should be escalated and verified with official sources.
Participants are responsible for confirming and obtaining any visa, travel authorization, or entry document required for their citizenship.
For U.S. citizens, group leaders should not give legal immigration advice. Any visa, non-U.S. passport, dual citizenship, green card, or immigration-status question should be escalated and verified with official sources.
What documents do minors need?
Minor documentation requirements will depend on the diocese, school, parish, airline, destination requirements, and family situation.
Minors not traveling with a parent or legal guardian may need notarized permission or other required documents.
All minor paperwork questions should be directed to your group leader.
Minors not traveling with a parent or legal guardian may need notarized permission or other required documents.
All minor paperwork questions should be directed to your group leader.
WHat documents do clergy or religious need?
Clergy or religious documentation may include additional forms or approvals.
Group leaders should not improvise answers. Clergy and religious documentation questions should be escalated.
Group leaders should not improvise answers. Clergy and religious documentation questions should be escalated.
9. Uploading Paperwork
Where do I upload my passport or paperwork?
Follow the upload instructions provided through your registration page, group leader, or JMJ Youth.
What should I check before uploading?
Make sure the document is:
- Clear
- Readable
- Complete
- Not blurry
- Not cut off
- Uploaded under the correct participant
- Submitted before the deadline
What if I uploaded the wrong document?
Contact your group leader and provide your full legal name, WeTravel email, and a description of what was uploaded incorrectly.
The issue should be escalated through your group leader.
The issue should be escalated through your group leader.
What if the upload does not work?
Email your group leader and include:
This should be escalated to JMJ Youth,
- Full legal name
- WeTravel email
- Document type
- Screenshot or error message
- Deadline affected, if any
This should be escalated to JMJ Youth,
10. Flights
When will we receive flight tickets?
Tickets or e-ticket confirmations are typically sent to the group leader after JMJ Youth receives them from the airline, the group balance has been paid, and required participant information and forms have been received.
The group leader will then distribute flight information to participants at the appropriate time.
The group leader will then distribute flight information to participants at the appropriate time.
Can I choose my seat?
Seats are usually arranged in group blocks.
Specific seat requests may be limited and are typically handled with the airline at check-in, not far in advance.
Group leaders should prioritize essential requests, such as chaperone or medical needs.
Specific seat requests may be limited and are typically handled with the airline at check-in, not far in advance.
Group leaders should prioritize essential requests, such as chaperone or medical needs.
Can I use my frequent flyer number?
Usually, participants may provide frequent flyer information at check-in with the airline.
What are the luggage restrictions?
Luggage restrictions depend on the airline.
JMJ Youth strongly recommends packing light. Participants should check the final airline rules once flights are confirmed.
JMJ Youth strongly recommends packing light. Participants should check the final airline rules once flights are confirmed.
Can I request a special inflight meal?
Special meal requests are usually made directly with the airline several weeks before departure.
Participants with medical or serious dietary needs should inform their group leader early.
Participants with medical or serious dietary needs should inform their group leader early.
Can I change my flight?
Do not assume individual flight changes are possible.
Flight changes, early arrivals, late departures, separate travel, or special routing requests must be escalated to JMJ Youth.
Flight changes, early arrivals, late departures, separate travel, or special routing requests must be escalated to JMJ Youth.
11. Lodging
What kind of Lodging should I expect?
Lodging depends on your group package.
World Youth Day lodging may involve hotels, hostels, dorm-style accommodations, simple lodging, or other arrangements depending on the group’s package and availability.
Participants should follow their group-specific itinerary and package information.
World Youth Day lodging may involve hotels, hostels, dorm-style accommodations, simple lodging, or other arrangements depending on the group’s package and availability.
Participants should follow their group-specific itinerary and package information.
Can I request a private room?
Private rooms are typically available only for hotel lodging packages. Pilgrims should first check their WeTravel portal to see whether a private room add-on is available for their package.
If no add-on is available or you have questions about rooming options, contact your group leader. If needed, escalate to JMJ Youth.
If no add-on is available or you have questions about rooming options, contact your group leader. If needed, escalate to JMJ Youth.
Can I change lodging type?
Lodging changes are not guaranteed and may affect pricing, availability, and group logistics.
Escalate any request for lodging changes through your group leader.
Escalate any request for lodging changes through your group leader.
Will we stay in hotels during days in the diocese?
Days in the Diocese is generally centered on hospitality from local parishes and host families.
Hotel lodging is usually not the model for Days in the Diocese. If a school, parish, or diocese cannot allow host-family lodging because of policy or liability concerns, the group may need to reconsider whether Days in the Diocese is appropriate.
Do not promise hotel lodging for Days in the Diocese unless JMJ Youth has confirmed it in writing.
Hotel lodging is usually not the model for Days in the Diocese. If a school, parish, or diocese cannot allow host-family lodging because of policy or liability concerns, the group may need to reconsider whether Days in the Diocese is appropriate.
Do not promise hotel lodging for Days in the Diocese unless JMJ Youth has confirmed it in writing.
12. Communication
WILL I have Internet access?
Internet access may be available in hotels, cafés, public spaces, or through mobile data, but it should not be assumed to be constant or reliable.
Large WYD events may overload cell networks.
Large WYD events may overload cell networks.
Will my phone work in south korea?
Participants should check with their phone carrier before departure.
Ask about:
Ask about:
- International roaming
- Data plans
- Texting and calling costs
- Whether the phone is unlocked
- eSIM or SIM options
How should I call home?
Common options include WhatsApp, FaceTime, other internet-based calling apps, or an international phone plan.
Data charges may apply if you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
Data charges may apply if you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
How often will I be in touch with family?
Do not expect constant communication.
WYD is busy, crowded, and sometimes physically demanding. There may be times when internet access or phone service is limited.
Groups should consider setting expectations with families before departure
WYD is busy, crowded, and sometimes physically demanding. There may be times when internet access or phone service is limited.
Groups should consider setting expectations with families before departure
Should parents expect daily individual updates?
Not necessarily. A group email, WhatsApp group, or parent update system may be used depending on the group leader’s plan. Families should not expect every pilgrim to communicate constantly during the pilgrimage.
13. Medical, Health and Accessibility
What vaccines do I need?
Pilgrims should be current on routine vaccinations and should check official travel-health guidance for South Korea before departure.
Pilgrims with medical concerns should speak with their doctor or travel clinic.
Pilgrims with medical concerns should speak with their doctor or travel clinic.
Does WYD provide Medical Insurance?
WYD has historically provided limited medical assistance connected to official WYD activities, but participants should not rely on that as full medical or travel insurance.
Participants should review and purchase their own travel insurance as appropriate.
Participants should review and purchase their own travel insurance as appropriate.
What if I take prescription medication?
Bring prescription medication in original containers. If medication is critical, consider bringing a backup prescription or doctor’s note.
Do not pack essential medication only in checked luggage; pack in carry-on luggage.
Do not pack essential medication only in checked luggage; pack in carry-on luggage.
What if I have a medical condition?
Inform your group leader as early as possible.
Medical information should be handled privately and must be submitted through the WeTravel platform so JMJ Youth is aware of any medical conditions, accessibility needs, or severe allergies. Do not share sensitive medical information in a large group chat.
Medical information should be handled privately and must be submitted through the WeTravel platform so JMJ Youth is aware of any medical conditions, accessibility needs, or severe allergies. Do not share sensitive medical information in a large group chat.
What if I need accessibility accomodations?
Tell your group leader as early as possible, and submit this information on WeTravel.
Accessibility needs must be escalated so that JMJ Youth and the Diocese can determine what is possible. WYD involves crowds, walking, stairs, public transportation, and long days, so early planning matters.
Accessibility needs must be escalated so that JMJ Youth and the Diocese can determine what is possible. WYD involves crowds, walking, stairs, public transportation, and long days, so early planning matters.
should the group bring a first aid kit?
Yes, each group should consider having a basic first aid kit with common over-the-counter items, according to the group’s policies.
Participants with personal medical needs should bring their own supplies and medications.
Participants with personal medical needs should bring their own supplies and medications.
14. Electricity and Devices
What type of outlets are used in south korea?
South Korea commonly uses Type C and Type F plugs with 220V power.
Participants from the United States will usually need a plug adapter.
Participants from the United States will usually need a plug adapter.
Do I need a voltage converter?
Many modern phone, laptop, camera, and tablet chargers work with 100–240V.
Check the label on your device or charger. If it does not support 220V, you may need a voltage converter.
A plug adapter is not the same thing as a voltage converter.
Check the label on your device or charger. If it does not support 220V, you may need a voltage converter.
A plug adapter is not the same thing as a voltage converter.
Should I bring a portable charger?
Yes. A portable battery pack is strongly recommended, especially for long days and major WYD events.
15. Packing
What should I pack?
Pack light.
You should bring what you need for pilgrimage, not every possible comfort item.
Final packing guidance will be provided closer to departure, but common items include:
You should bring what you need for pilgrimage, not every possible comfort item.
Final packing guidance will be provided closer to departure, but common items include:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Modest clothing
- Rain protection
- Sun protection
- Refillable water bottle
- Small daypack
- Medications
- Basic toiletries
- Phone charger and portable charger
- Travel adapter
- Passport and required documents
- Simple overnight items for the vigil
Should I bring dress clothes?
Follow your group-specific packing instructions.
Bring clothing appropriate for Mass, churches, travel, and pilgrimage. Prioritize modesty, comfort, and practicality.
Bring clothing appropriate for Mass, churches, travel, and pilgrimage. Prioritize modesty, comfort, and practicality.
Will laundry be available?
Laundry access may be limited.
Plan to pack efficiently and be prepared to hand-wash small items if needed.
Plan to pack efficiently and be prepared to hand-wash small items if needed.
Do I need to carry my belongings every day?
No. Most days, pilgrims should carry only what they need for the day, in a smaller daypack.
Never leave valuables unsecured.
Never leave valuables unsecured.
Should I bring trading items?
This is optional. Many WYD pilgrims bring small items such as pins, stickers, patches, keychains, or flags to trade with pilgrims from other countries. These should be small, inexpensive, and easy to carry.
16. Money
What currency is used in south korea?
The currency in South Korea is the South Korean won.
How much spending money should I bring?
This depends on the group package, meals included, personal spending habits, souvenirs, snacks, and optional purchases.
Your group leader or JMJ Youth may provide a more specific recommendation closer to departure.
Your group leader or JMJ Youth may provide a more specific recommendation closer to departure.
Can I use credit or debit cards?
Credit and debit cards are widely used in many places, but participants should still have some local currency available.
Before departure, contact your bank or card provider to ask about:
Before departure, contact your bank or card provider to ask about:
- Foreign transaction fees
- International ATM fees
- Fraud alerts
- Daily withdrawal limits
Should I bring cash?
Yes, but do not carry too much at once. Use a secure money belt or travel pouch for passport, cards, and larger cash amounts. Keep a smaller amount accessible for daily use.
Avoid bringing your home currency to exchange after arrival. Instead, order South Korean won from your bank before departure, as currency exchange services often offer poor exchange rates.
Avoid bringing your home currency to exchange after arrival. Instead, order South Korean won from your bank before departure, as currency exchange services often offer poor exchange rates.
Where should I exchange money?
Participants should follow the guidance provided by their group leader or JMJ Youth closer to departure.
Avoid bringing your home currency to exchange after arrival. Instead, order South Korean won from your bank before departure, as currency exchange services often offer poor exchange rates. Planning ahead can save both time and money.
Avoid bringing your home currency to exchange after arrival. Instead, order South Korean won from your bank before departure, as currency exchange services often offer poor exchange rates. Planning ahead can save both time and money.
17. Food and Water
What will the food be like?
Food will depend on the itinerary, package, WYD arrangements, and local availability. Pilgrims should expect some meals to be simple and should be open to local food and group meal logistics.
Will all meals be included?
Follow your group-specific itinerary and package details.
Some meals may be included through JMJ Youth, official WYD arrangements, lodging, or group plans. Other meals or snacks may be at the pilgrim’s own expense.
Some meals may be included through JMJ Youth, official WYD arrangements, lodging, or group plans. Other meals or snacks may be at the pilgrim’s own expense.
Can I use tap water?
Pilgrims are encouraged to carry a refillable water bottle and refill it whenever practical.
Tap water in Seoul is generally considered safe to drink. However, many locals prefer filtered or bottled water because of the taste in some areas. Filtered water fountains are widely available, and bottled water is inexpensive and easy to find.
Tap water in Seoul is generally considered safe to drink. However, many locals prefer filtered or bottled water because of the taste in some areas. Filtered water fountains are widely available, and bottled water is inexpensive and easy to find.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Tell your group leader as early as possible and add this to your Travel portal.
Dietary requests cannot always be guaranteed, especially during large WYD events, official meal distributions, flights, and simple lodging situations.
Serious allergies or medical dietary needs should be escalated.
Dietary requests cannot always be guaranteed, especially during large WYD events, official meal distributions, flights, and simple lodging situations.
Serious allergies or medical dietary needs should be escalated.
18. Safety
What if I get separated from the group?
Stay calm.
Follow the group’s safety plan. In general:
Every group should designate meeting points before entering major event areas.
Follow the group’s safety plan. In general:
- Stay where you are if the group is nearby
- Contact your group leader or guide if you can
- Use the designated meeting point if your group has one
- Ask an official volunteer, police officer, or event staff member for help if needed
- Do not wander further away without communicating
Every group should designate meeting points before entering major event areas.
What should I carry with me?
Carry:
- Group leader contact information
- Lodging name and address
- Emergency contact information
- Passport copy, if instructed
- Phone and portable charger
- Water
- Essential medication
- Any required ID or WYD credential
What if I lose something important?
Tell your group leader immediately.
If the lost item is a passport, wallet, phone, medication, or official WYD credential, the issue should be escalated immediately.
If the lost item is a passport, wallet, phone, medication, or official WYD credential, the issue should be escalated immediately.
What if there is a medical emergency?
Contact the group leader immediately and follow the group emergency plan.
Medical emergencies should be escalated to JMJ Youth, the Diocese, local emergency services, or event medical support depending on the situation.
Medical emergencies should be escalated to JMJ Youth, the Diocese, local emergency services, or event medical support depending on the situation.
What if a parent is worried?
Group leaders can answer basic questions using official materials.
If the concern involves safety, medical needs, legal responsibility, minors, complaints, or emergency situations, escalate it.
If the concern involves safety, medical needs, legal responsibility, minors, complaints, or emergency situations, escalate it.
19. Group Leader Support
Who should participants contact first?
Participants should contact their group leader first for basic questions.
Group leaders are the first point of contact for their parish or subgroup.
Group leaders are the first point of contact for their parish or subgroup.
What should group leaders answer?
Group leaders can answer basic questions such as:
- Where to register
- How to log back into WeTravel
- Where to find payment deadlines
- Where to upload documents
- Where to find the FAQ
- How to watch the registration video
- Basic itinerary or package questions
- General reminders
What should group leaders escalate?
Group leaders should escalate:
- Payment errors
- Failed or duplicate payments
- Late fee questions
- Refunds, cancellations, or replacements
- Duplicate WeTravel accounts
- Name, email, or passport corrections
- Insurance coverage or claims questions
- Minor or clergy paperwork
- Medical or accessibility needs
- Flight, lodging, or itinerary changes
- Anything sensitive, unclear, or requiring approval
How should group leaders escalate an issue?
Group leaders should email [email protected] and include:
- Group leader name
- Parish or subgroup
- Participant full legal name
- Participant email used in WeTravel
- Issue and short description
- Screenshot, receipt, or error message, if relevant
- Deadline affected, if any
What is a good escalation?
“Maria Lopez from St. Ann says she paid her deposit on May 22, but WeTravel still shows payment due. Her WeTravel email is [email protected]. A screenshot is attached. Deadline is June 1.”
This includes specific information and therefore helps JMJ Youth solve the issue faster.
This includes specific information and therefore helps JMJ Youth solve the issue faster.
what is a bad escalation?
“Maria has a payment problem. Can you help?”
This doesn't include enough details for JMJ Youth to investigate the issue and will likely require follow-up questions, slowing down the response.
This doesn't include enough details for JMJ Youth to investigate the issue and will likely require follow-up questions, slowing down the response.
What is the group leader's role?
Your role is to help your pilgrims have a successful pilgrimage, not to have every answer.
As a Group Leader, you should:
You are not expected to know everything. When a situation is outside your role or you're unsure how to respond, use the available resources or escalate the issue.
As a Group Leader, you should:
- Help pilgrims stay informed using official information
- Answer basic questions
- Point participants to the correct resources
- Remind them about important deadlines
- Escalate questions or issues that require JMJ Youth or Diocese support
You are not expected to know everything. When a situation is outside your role or you're unsure how to respond, use the available resources or escalate the issue.
What is not the group leader's role?
Group Leaders should not:
If a request falls into one of these areas, or you're unsure whether it's within your role, escalate it to JMJ Youth.
- Promise refunds
- Waive late fees
- Approve cancellations
- Approve participant replacements
- Interpret insurance coverage
- Recommend or choose insurance plans for participants
- Provide immigration or visa advice
- Approve flight changes
- Approve lodging changes
- Make decisions about medical situations without guidance
- Make promises that have not been confirmed by JMJ Youth or the Diocese
If a request falls into one of these areas, or you're unsure whether it's within your role, escalate it to JMJ Youth.