Pope Francis has stressed the importance of enhancing communications, dialogue and cooperation with an open mind, hoping democracy will continue to strengthen in South Korea.

The pope made the remark at a welcoming ceremony at the presidential office with President Park Geun-hye and senior government officials in attendance.
 
The pope said the common good, liberal ideas and development must be understood in terms of people, instead of as economic concepts. He said it is important to be concerned about the poor and disadvantaged.
 
He also expressed his hope for peace on the Korean peninsula.
 
The pope said pursuing peace in Korea will affect not only its immediate region, but stability all over the world, which is exhausted by war.
 
He said Korea has suffered a lack of peace for a long time and that he commends efforts to bring reconciliation and stability to the Korean peninsula.
 
Pope Francis expressed thanks to the president and government officials for their warm welcome and ended his speech by saying God bless South Koreans, especially its youth.