45,000 Koreans Embrace Islam as Interest in the Faith Grows
An estimated 45,000 ethnic Koreans, born and raised in South Korea, have embraced Islam. They are part of a larger Muslim population in the country that includes around 150,000 foreign residents, rising from 34,000 in 2001, bringing the total estimated Muslim population to nearly 200,000. This broader foreign figure mainly consists of immigrant workers and international students living across South Korea.
Why Koreans Are Drawn to Islam
Koreans who convert to Islam often point to the clarity of monotheism and the simplicity of its beliefs as key factors in their journey. Many are also drawn to the strong emphasis on respect for elders, deep family values, and a close-knit sense of community.
One convert shared with The Korea Times that after becoming Muslim in 2014, he discovered a sense of brotherhood he had never experienced before. Furthermore, some young Korean men express that traditional Islamic marriage and family values offer a meaningful purpose to life instead of the increasingly competitive dating culture in South Korea.
Expanding Presence and Modern Challenges
The Seoul Central Mosque in Itaewon opened back in 1976. Since then, new mosques and prayer spaces have opened in cities such as Busan, Anyang, Gwangju, Jeonju, Daegu, and Gyeonggi.
Despite this growth, Muslims still make up roughly 0.3% of South Korea's total population. Many converts discuss navigating societal prejudices and the practical difficulty of finding halal food options, especially outside major urban centers.
Social Media and the Future
Social media plays a major role in increasing the visibility of Islam in South Korea. Today, Korean Muslim content creators share their daily lives online, sparking curiosity among the younger generation.
Ultimately, guidance is a spiritual journey, may Allah keep those who seek the truth firm on their path and guide many more.
Source: The Korea Times, Korea Economic Institute
