The 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD) is calling for submissions for its official theme song. Based on the scriptural theme “Take courage; I have conquered the world” (John 16:33), the song should resonate with young people worldwide. Submissions are open from July 1 to August 31, 2027, and anyone can participate regardless of genre, religion, region, or nationality.
 [KOREANTODAY] Call for the Official Theme Song of the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day: Unite the World’s Youth Through Song © JI SEUNGJU Reporter |
The 2027 Seoul World Youth Day (WYD) has officially opened a call for its theme song, inviting participants from around the world to create a song that embodies the event’s spirit and message. This initiative is organized by the 2027 Seoul WYD Local Organizing Committee and co-hosted by cpbc Catholic Peace Broadcasting Corporation and the Seoul Archdiocese’s Sacred Music Committee.
Reflecting the WYD Theme Scripture: “Take Courage; I Have Conquered the World”
The theme song must incorporate the essence of the 2027 WYD’s scriptural theme, “Take courage; I have conquered the world” (John 16:33). This song will serve as a unifying anthem, connecting the hearts of young people from different cultures and faiths. The official theme song is not only a musical centerpiece for the event but also a representation of the host city’s unique identity.
Previous WYD theme songs have carried significant messages and been sung by youth across the globe. For example, the 2023 Lisbon WYD featured the song “Let Us Go in Haste,” the 2019 Panama WYD had “May It Be Done to Me According to Your Word,” and the 2016 Krakow WYD presented “Blessed Are the Merciful.”
Submission Details
The submission period runs from July 1 to August 31, 2027. Participants must submit a fully completed song, including lyrics and music composition. There are no restrictions on genre, religion, region, or nationality, and each participant can submit up to three songs.
To apply, participants must download the application form from the cpbc Plus website (cpbc.co.kr) or the official Seoul WYD website (wydseoul.org). Along with the application form, they need to submit an audio file (MP3 or WAV) and sheet music with lyrics to the designated email address (themesong@wydseoul.org).
Evaluation Criteria and Process
The evaluation process includes a comprehensive review of the song’s content, musicality, and alignment with the theme and message of the 2027 WYD. Judges will also assess the song’s popularity potential, adaptability for translation into multiple languages, ease of performance, and suitability for group singing. The selection will involve a preliminary evaluation of submissions, followed by a final review including in-person auditions.
It is important to note that if no submission meets the required standards, the judges may decide not to select a winner, reflecting the high standards of the competition.
A Message of Unity for Youth Worldwide
Seoul WYD aims to bring together youth from all over the world to share their faith and build a spirit of unity. The official theme song will be a central element in this mission, delivering a message of courage and hope to young people everywhere.
For further inquiries, participants can contact the organizers via email or through KakaoTalk Open Chat. Full details and updates can be found on the official website.
More Details: World Youth Day Theme Song Submission Guidelines
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