[HOT LINKS] Pope Wants Korean Car for Upcoming Visit

July 3, 2014
Pope Francis

Pope Francis

[The Wall Street Journal] Pope Francis is set to shun bulletproof vehicles during his five-day trip to South Korea next month, insisting on using a locally made car.

“The pope has expressed his wish to use a Korean car. A compact car, the smallest type if possible,” said Father Matthias Hur Young-yup, who is preparing for the papal visit from Aug. 14-18.

Since his election last year, the pontiff has stressed to the clergy the importance of frugality and asked them to forego expensive limousines, said Father Hur.

The decision is expected to complicate security arrangements for the pope’s trip – more road closures will be needed and followers will be forced to stand a greater distance from the motorcade. [READ MORE]