Islam In South Korea: A Growing Faith In The Land Of K-Pop

Ms. Ludie Quigley 13 May 2025

South Korea might be famous for its K-Pop, K-Dramas, and tech giants, but there's another side to this vibrant nation that’s gaining attention—Islam in South Korea. It may surprise you, but Islam is no longer a foreign concept here. The Muslim community has been growing steadily, and its presence is becoming more prominent. While South Korea is predominantly Buddhist and Christian, Islam has carved out its own niche, and it’s fascinating to explore how this religion has taken root in such a unique cultural landscape.

Let’s dive into the story of Islam in South Korea. How did it start? Who are the Muslims living here? And what does the future hold for this community? These questions and more will be answered as we journey through the history, culture, and challenges of Muslims in this dynamic country.

So buckle up, because this isn’t just about religion—it’s about how South Korea is embracing diversity and how Islam is becoming an integral part of its multicultural fabric.

A Brief History of Islam in South Korea

Islam in South Korea isn’t a new phenomenon; it dates back centuries. Historians believe that the first contact between Korea and the Muslim world occurred during the 7th century through trade routes. Arab and Persian merchants traveled to East Asia, bringing with them not only goods but also their beliefs. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that Islam truly began to take shape in South Korea.

During the Korean War (1950–1953), Turkish troops played a significant role in defending South Korea. Many of these soldiers were Muslims, and their presence left a lasting impact. In fact, some of them stayed after the war, marrying local women and starting families. This marked the beginning of a small but dedicated Muslim community in South Korea.

Key Milestones in the Growth of Islam

1970s: The establishment of the Seoul Central Mosque, which became the spiritual hub for Muslims in South Korea.
1990s: Increased immigration from Muslim-majority countries, particularly Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Indonesia, contributed to the growth of the Muslim population.
2000s: Conversion rates among native Koreans started to rise, with many embracing Islam due to its teachings and principles.

The growth of Islam in South Korea is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Muslim community. Despite being a minority, they have managed to build a strong network of mosques, schools, and cultural centers across the country.

Demographics of Muslims in South Korea

As of 2023, estimates suggest that there are around 250,000 Muslims in South Korea, making up about 0.5% of the total population. This number includes both foreign residents and native Koreans who have converted to Islam. While the majority of Muslims in South Korea are immigrants, the number of Korean converts is on the rise, reflecting a growing interest in the religion.

Who Are the Muslims in South Korea?

Let’s break it down:

Foreign-born Muslims: Mostly from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia, and other Muslim-majority countries. Many come to South Korea as workers, students, or through marriage.
Korean Converts: A growing number of native Koreans are choosing Islam, drawn by its emphasis on equality, justice, and spirituality.

Interestingly, many Korean converts are women, often inspired by their interactions with Muslim friends or through online research. This trend highlights the appeal of Islam’s teachings in a modern, globalized world.

Challenges Faced by Muslims in South Korea

Living as a minority in a predominantly Buddhist and Christian country isn’t without its challenges. Muslims in South Korea face several obstacles, including cultural differences, language barriers, and societal perceptions. However, they remain resilient, finding ways to thrive and contribute positively to society.

Cultural Misunderstandings

One of the biggest challenges is overcoming cultural misunderstandings. Many South Koreans have limited exposure to Islam, leading to misconceptions and stereotypes. For example, some people associate Islam with extremism, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Education and interfaith dialogue are crucial in breaking down these barriers and fostering mutual understanding.

Language Barriers

For foreign-born Muslims, the language barrier can be a significant hurdle. Navigating daily life, accessing services, and communicating with locals can be challenging, especially for those who don’t speak Korean fluently. However, many Muslims have found ways to overcome this by learning the language and immersing themselves in the local culture.

The Role of Mosques in South Korea

Mosques play a vital role in the lives of Muslims in South Korea. They serve not only as places of worship but also as community centers where people can gather, learn, and support each other. The Seoul Central Mosque, located in the Itaewon district, is the largest and most well-known mosque in the country. It attracts Muslims from all over South Korea and even tourists who want to learn more about Islam.

Other Notable Mosques

Daejeon Mosque: Located in the city of Daejeon, this mosque serves the Muslim community in the central region of South Korea.
Busan Central Mosque: Situated in the port city of Busan, this mosque caters to the growing Muslim population in the southern part of the country.

These mosques offer a range of services, including prayer facilities, educational programs, and social events. They also provide a sense of belonging and community for Muslims in South Korea, helping them maintain their faith and traditions.

Interfaith Relations in South Korea

South Korea is known for its religious tolerance, and interfaith relations are generally positive. Muslims in South Korea actively participate in interfaith dialogues and events, promoting mutual respect and understanding. These efforts have helped dispel myths and build bridges between different communities.

Examples of Successful Interfaith Initiatives

Interfaith Conferences: Regular conferences bring together leaders from various religions to discuss common issues and find solutions.
Community Service: Muslims often collaborate with other religious groups on charitable projects, such as feeding the homeless or helping disaster victims.

These initiatives demonstrate that despite differences, people can come together to work towards a common goal. They also highlight the importance of dialogue and cooperation in building a harmonious society.

Education and Awareness about Islam in South Korea

Education is key to promoting understanding and acceptance. Many mosques and Islamic organizations in South Korea offer classes and workshops to educate people about Islam. These programs cover topics such as the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic history, providing a comprehensive understanding of the religion.

Online Resources

With the rise of the internet, more people in South Korea are accessing information about Islam online. Websites, blogs, and social media platforms dedicated to Islam have made it easier for curious individuals to learn about the faith at their own pace. This digital outreach has played a significant role in increasing awareness and interest in Islam.

The Future of Islam in South Korea

The future looks bright for Islam in South Korea. As the Muslim population continues to grow, so does its influence and visibility. More mosques are being built, and Islamic education is becoming more accessible. Additionally, the increasing number of Korean converts suggests that Islam resonates with many people in this country.

Potential Challenges Ahead

However, challenges remain. Issues such as discrimination, cultural misunderstandings, and integration need to be addressed. The Muslim community in South Korea must continue to engage in dialogue and outreach to foster better relations with the wider society.

Despite these challenges, the Muslim community in South Korea remains optimistic. They believe that through education, cooperation, and perseverance, they can overcome any obstacles and contribute positively to the nation.

Conclusion

Islam in South Korea is a story of growth, resilience, and adaptation. From its early beginnings centuries ago to its current status as a thriving community, Muslims in South Korea have made significant strides. They have built mosques, established educational programs, and fostered positive interfaith relations, all while maintaining their faith and traditions.

As the Muslim population continues to grow, it’s essential to promote understanding and acceptance. Education, dialogue, and cooperation are key to building a harmonious society where people of all faiths can coexist peacefully.

So, what can you do? If you’re interested in learning more about Islam, visit a local mosque or attend an interfaith event. Engage in conversations with Muslims in your community and seek to understand their beliefs and practices. Together, we can create a more inclusive and tolerant world.

Share this article with your friends and family to spread awareness about Islam in South Korea. And if you have any questions or thoughts, leave a comment below. Let’s keep the conversation going!

A Brief History of Islam in South Korea
Demographics of Muslims in South Korea
Challenges Faced by Muslims in South Korea
The Role of Mosques in South Korea
Interfaith Relations in South Korea
Education and Awareness about Islam in South Korea
The Future of Islam in South Korea
Conclusion

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