Korea is traditionally known for its Buddhist and Confucian heritage, but it is also a society where diverse religions and cultures coexist. Among these is Islam. This blog post aims to provide a detailed understanding of Islam and Islamic culture in Korea for foreigners.
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| Islam in Korea |
1. History of Islam in Korea
Islam was introduced to Korea relatively recently, during the Korean War. Turkish soldiers participating in the UN forces first brought Islam to Korea. Later, in the 1970s and 1980s, many Koreans went to the Middle East for work during the economic boom, further spreading awareness of Islam in Korea.
2. Islam and Korean Society
Currently, there are about 150,000 Muslims living in Korea. This population includes both Korean and foreign Muslims, primarily residing in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. Korean society respects various religious beliefs, including Islam.
3. Islamic Culture in Korea
- Halal Food
- Finding halal food in Korea has become easier. Itaewon in Seoul has many halal restaurants, and halal-certified products are increasingly available.
- Notable Halal Restaurants: "Samarqand," "Uzbekistan Restaurant," "Morocco Cosme" in Itaewon.
- Mosques in Korea
- There are several mosques in Korea. The most famous is the Seoul Central Mosque located in Itaewon, established in 1976, which serves as a center for worship and education.
- Other notable mosques: Busan Central Mosque, Ansan Mosque, Daegu Mosque.
- Islamic Cultural Events
- Various events related to Islamic culture are held in Korea. Celebrations during Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and other significant Islamic holidays are important to the Muslim community.
- The annual "Seoul Halal Festival" provides an opportunity for both Korean and foreign Muslims to come together and celebrate.
4. Islamic Organizations and Communities in Korea
Several organizations and communities support Muslim believers in Korea. The Korea Muslim Federation (KMF) assists in religious activities and promotes Islamic teachings and culture within Korean society. Additionally, many universities have Islamic student associations that allow Muslim students to gather and participate in community activities.
5. Living as a Muslim in Korea
Korea, a country that guarantees religious freedom, allows Muslims to practice their faith freely. With the increase in halal-certified food and the expansion of halal-friendly tourism infrastructure, Korea is becoming a popular destination for Muslim travelers.
Conclusion
While Islam in Korea has a relatively short history, it is establishing its roots through various means. The increasing number of halal restaurants, the presence of mosques, and numerous cultural events help Muslims live comfortably in Korea. This guide aims to help Muslims visiting or living in Korea understand the Islamic culture and practices in the country better.
