Seoul Central Mosque in Itaewon is Korea’s main Islamic center, offering worship, culture, and education in a multicultural setting.
Located in the Itaewon district of Yongsan-gu, Seoul Central Mosque serves as a landmark of Islamic culture in South Korea. Since its establishment, the mosque has grown to represent not just a place of worship, but also a center for cultural exchange, education, and interfaith understanding. Recent renovations have further elevated its historical and cultural presence.
Historical Background and Establishment of the Seoul Central Mosque
Seoul Central Mosque officially opened on May 21, 1976. The South Korean government provided approximately 5,000 square meters of land for its construction. Funding was primarily supported by several Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia. At the time, the Muslim population in Korea numbered fewer than 3,000 people.
By the 1990s, the mosque’s significance expanded as South Korea began to welcome a large influx of foreign workers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. These demographic changes led to the formation of a more visible and vibrant Muslim community. Seoul Central Mosque became the spiritual and social anchor for Muslims living in Korea.
Architectural Features Reflecting Islamic Traditions
The mosque is built in a traditional Islamic architectural style, incorporating distinctive minarets, arches, and Arabic calligraphy. The twin minarets stand tall at the entrance, symbolizing the mosque's spiritual authority and visibility within the cityscape.
The mosque consists of three main floors: the first houses the Korean Muslim Federation’s administrative offices and meeting rooms; the second floor is reserved for the men's prayer hall; and the third floor accommodates the women’s prayer hall. Additional facilities include a library, education center, and classrooms for Islamic studies for children and new converts. These spaces are used not only for religious purposes but also for community engagement and educational outreach.
Renovation in 2025 and the Introduction of Ottoman Design
In April 2025, the mosque completed a six-month renovation project with support from the Turkish government. Skilled Turkish artisans participated in the restoration, introducing elements of classical Ottoman design, such as intricately patterned tiles, marble inlays, and updated Arabic inscriptions throughout the interior.
This renovation enhanced both the spiritual and aesthetic value of the mosque. Visitors now experience a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern artistic heritage and Korean urban context. The upgraded interiors and decorative features also serve as educational material for visitors unfamiliar with Islamic art and design.
Central Role in the Korean Muslim Community
Seoul Central Mosque remains the core venue for religious life among Muslims in South Korea. Every Friday, between 400 and 800 worshippers attend the Jumu'ah prayer. During major Islamic holidays such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha, the mosque hosts thousands of visitors from across the country.
Beyond its function as a prayer space, the mosque offers open lectures, cultural exhibitions, and interfaith dialogue programs. These events help dispel misconceptions about Islam and promote mutual respect among different religious communities in Korea. The mosque's doors are open to Muslims and non-Muslims alike, fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness.
The Emergence of “Muslim Street” in Itaewon
The presence of Seoul Central Mosque has contributed to the growth of a multicultural enclave in Itaewon. The area surrounding the mosque is now often referred to as “Muslim Street,” home to a wide array of halal restaurants, Middle Eastern grocery stores, bookstores, and butcher shops catering to Muslim residents and tourists.
This unique environment attracts not only Muslims but also local Koreans and international visitors interested in experiencing Islamic culture through food, shopping, and daily life. Itaewon's openness to diversity makes it a valuable example of coexistence in a modern Asian metropolis.
Practical Information for Visitors
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Address: 39, Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Subway Access: Itaewon Station (Line 6), Exit 3 — approximately 9 minutes on foot
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Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (subject to changes based on prayer times)
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Visitor Guidelines: Modest dress is expected. Female visitors are encouraged to wear clothing that covers the hair and body. Loud conversation and photography are discouraged inside the prayer areas to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
The mosque also provides informational brochures in multiple languages, and staff are generally available to answer questions or guide non-Muslim visitors through a respectful exploration of the premises.
Symbol of Coexistence: The Broader Significance of Seoul Central Mosque
Seoul Central Mosque is more than a religious building. It is a vibrant cultural institution, serving as a bridge between Islamic and Korean cultures. Its architecture, community programs, and strategic location in multicultural Itaewon make it an important example of peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.
As South Korea continues to globalize, places like Seoul Central Mosque highlight the nation's growing cultural complexity and capacity for inclusion. Whether as a place of worship, a cultural learning site, or a starting point for exploring Itaewon's international character, the mosque plays a meaningful role in modern Korean society.
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