Muslim-Friendly Countries in South Korea 2025: Top Picks for Halal Travel

A Muslim-friendly destination is a place that allows Muslim travellers to explore the world comfortably while still practising their faith. This means having easy access to halal food, prayer spaces, and a respectful environment that aligns with Islamic values. In countries like Malaysia, Turkey, and Indonesia, this is already well established. However, we’re now seeing more non-Muslim countries like Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom becoming increasingly Muslim-friendly, with more halal dining options and designated prayer areas. So, a Muslim-friendly destination is one where you can travel with peace of mind, knowing your religious needs are taken care of while you enjoy the beauty and culture of the place. 🌍🕌

🌸 Muslim-Friendly Destinations in Korea

🏙️ Seoul – Modern, Multicultural, and Muslim-Friendly

Why is Seoul Muslim-friendly?

Although South Korea is not a Muslim-majority country, Seoul has made commendable efforts to cater to Muslim travellers. From halal food to prayer facilities, the city continues to grow as a welcoming destination for Muslims from around the world.

🕌 Seoul Central Mosque – Heart of the Muslim Community

📍 Located in Itaewon, Seoul’s most multicultural district.
Tips:

• Visit during Friday prayers to experience the warm community spirit.
• Explore nearby halal shops, Muslim supermarkets, and Islamic bookstores.
• How to get there: Take Subway Line 6 to Itaewon Station, Exit 3. Walk uphill for about 10 minutes.

🍱 Halal Food in Seoul

Source: Mr and Mrs Halal

You’ll find a growing list of halal Korean restaurants in Seoul. Some popular options among Malaysian travellers include:

• Eid Halal Korean Food (Itaewon) – Run by a local Muslim family; try the bulgogi and Korean stews.
• Makan Halal (Itaewon) – A favourite among Malaysians; known for halal bibimbap and samgyetang.
• Yang Good BBQ (Gangnam) – Offers halal lamb BBQ you can grill yourself.
• Busan Jib Halal (Myeongdong) – Serves Korean-style seafood dishes.
• Hajj Korea (Itaewon) – Fusion of Pakistani and Korean cuisine.

Tip: Always look for halal certification from KMF (Korea Muslim Federation). You can also find halal cup noodles with KMF labels at convenience stores like CU and GS25.

🙏 Prayer Spaces in Unexpected Places

• Seoul Central Mosque – Offers Friday sermons in three languages.
• Incheon International Airport – Prayer rooms available in Terminal 1 & 2.
• COEX Mall (Gangnam) – Prayer room located on the 4th floor of SM Town building.
• N Seoul Tower – Ask staff for directions to the prayer space.
• Lotte World & Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Prayer rooms available; check at the information counters.

🛍️ Shopping & Muslim-Friendly Hotels

Where to Shop:

• Myeongdong – Popular for skincare; some Innisfree products are halal-certified by Malaysia.
• Dongdaemun – Many seafood and vegetarian food stalls.
• Insadong – Ideal for traditional Korean souvenirs.

Muslim-Friendly Hotels:

• Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel (Itaewon) – Close to the mosque and halal eateries.
• Hamilton Hotel (Itaewon) – Strategic location with easy access to Muslim facilities.
• ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun – Includes qibla indicators and private prayer spaces.

🌙 Ramadan & Eid in Seoul

• Iftar gatherings are often hosted at the mosque, usually supported by the Malaysian embassy or local Muslim community.
• Tarawih prayers are held nightly at Seoul Central Mosque.
• Eid celebrations are lively and well-attended by Muslims from various backgrounds.

✨ Extra Tips for Malaysian Travellers

• Download useful apps: Halal Navi, Muslim Pro, and HappyCow to locate halal food and prayer rooms.
• Learn this useful phrase in Korean: “halal eumnyang isseoyo?” (Do you have halal food?)
• Best areas to stay: Itaewon for convenient access to Muslim facilities, or Myeongdong and Hongdae for trendy cafes and shopping.

🌊 Busan – A Relaxing Coastal City Becoming More Muslim-Friendly

While Busan may not yet have the same level of Muslim-friendly infrastructure as Seoul, it is quickly catching up. Known for its scenic beaches, vibrant culture, and fresh seafood, Busan offers a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for a peaceful getaway. With a bit of planning, Muslim travellers can enjoy a comfortable and meaningful trip here.

🕌 A Small but Growing Muslim Community

Busan doesn’t have a large mosque like Seoul, but it is home to a close-knit Muslim community centred around Masjid Al-Fatah Busan. This modest mosque is a welcoming space for both locals and visitors, and is surrounded by a few halal shops.

📍 Masjid Al-Fatah Busan
🚇 Subway: Dusil Station (Line 1), Exit 8 – about a 10-minute walk
🧼 Facilities: Prayer area, wudhu space, open daily

🍛 Halal & Muslim-Friendly Dining in Busan

Source: 2foodtrippers

Halal restaurants in Busan may be limited, but there are still several great places to eat if you know where to look:

Recommended Halal/Muslim-Friendly Restaurants:

• Shabana Indian Restaurant (Haeundae) – Serves Indian-Pakistani cuisine with halal meat, just a short walk from the beach.
• Eid Halal Korean Food (Busan branch) – Run by local Korean Muslims; try their halal bulgogi and kimchi jjigae.
• Punjab Indian Restaurant (Gwangalli) – Known for its sea view and authentic Indian dishes.
• Hello India Al-Waha (Haeundae) – A well-established halal-certified restaurant.

Tip: In areas like Jagalchi Market, many seafood restaurants are willing to prepare grilled fish, vegetarian side dishes (banchan), or seafood soups without alcohol or pork. Just make a polite request.

🙏 Where to Pray in Busan

Although prayer facilities are limited, with a bit of flexibility, it’s still easy to observe your prayers:

• Masjid Al-Fatah Busan – Main prayer location for daily and Friday prayers.
• Lotte Department Store (Seomyeon) – Some Muslim travellers have requested quiet rooms here; ask the customer service desk.
• Hotels – Many hotels are happy to provide a private space for prayer upon request.

🧳 Travel Tip: Bring a portable prayer mat, use a Qibla app, and don’t hesitate to pray at peaceful spots like parks or the beach.

🏝️ Must-Visit Attractions for Muslim Travellers

Busan’s natural beauty makes it inherently welcoming to everyone, including Muslim travellers:

Top Places to Visit:

• Haeundae Beach – Ideal for a relaxing walk, seaside views, and photography.
• Gamcheon Culture Village – A colourful hillside art village with walking trails and murals.
• Jagalchi Market – Korea’s largest seafood market; try grilled fish and local snacks.
• Taejongdae Park – Clifftop views of the ocean, perfect for a scenic day trip.
• Beomeosa Temple – A peaceful cultural site surrounded by nature (dress modestly when visiting temples).

🛏️ Where to Stay as a Muslim Traveller

Busan offers a wide range of hotels and guesthouses, especially in tourist-friendly areas. While not all are tailored to Muslims, many are conveniently located and willing to accommodate basic religious needs.

Recommended Areas to Stay:

• Haeundae – Near the beach, halal restaurants, and popular attractions.
• Seomyeon – City centre location, close to shopping and subway access.
• Nampo-dong – Close to Jagalchi Market, Busan Tower, and halal food spots.

💡 Useful Tips for a Muslim-Friendly Holiday in Busan

• Pack essentials: travel prayer mat, Qibla app, and instant halal meals for remote areas.
• Use apps like Halal Navi or Muslim Pro to find halal food and prayer spots nearby.
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or traditional markets.
• Communicate respectfully—many Koreans are friendly and open to helping even if they’re unfamiliar with Muslim practices.

🏝️ Jeju Island for Muslim Travellers: Nature, Serenity & Halal Comfort

Often referred to as the "Hawaii of Korea," Jeju Island is a stunning destination known for its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, beaches, and tangerine orchards. While Jeju may not yet offer the same level of Muslim-friendly facilities as Seoul or Busan, it is becoming increasingly accommodating—especially for those who love nature, outdoor adventures, and peaceful, faith-conscious travel.

🕌 Small Muslim Community, Calm and Respectful Atmosphere

Jeju is home to a small, scattered Muslim community—mostly made up of students and tourists. Though there are no major mosques on the island, several hotels and universities do provide prayer spaces. What makes Jeju special is its peaceful environment, respectful locals, and abundance of natural spots that make it easy to find quiet moments for prayer, reflection, and spiritual peace.

🍽️ Halal and Muslim-Friendly Dining in Jeju

Certified halal restaurants may still be limited, but Muslim travellers can enjoy the island’s local cuisine with the right choices. Many seafood and vegetarian dishes are naturally halal-friendly, and some restaurants are beginning to accommodate Muslim guests.

Recommended Muslim-Friendly Eateries:

• Bagdad Café (Jeju City) – Indian restaurant that serves halal meat upon request, popular among international travellers.
• Rajmahal Indian Restaurant (Seogwipo) – Family-run with halal meat options, located near coastal attractions.
• Jeju Halal Restaurant (Jeju City) – Offers halal-style Korean dishes with certification.
• Seafood BBQ at Dongmun Traditional Market – Choose grilled fish, abalone, or seafood soups; request no alcohol or pork in the preparation.

💡 Tip: If unsure, opt for vegetarian bibimbap, grilled fish, or Korean-style pancakes (jeon), which are generally safe for Muslims.

🙏 Prayer Facilities in Jeju

Although Jeju doesn’t have large mosques, there are still ways to perform prayers comfortably:

Where to Pray:

• Hotels – Many mid-range to upscale hotels in Jeju City and Seogwipo are happy to provide a quiet space for prayer if requested politely.
• Jeju National University – Has a small prayer room used by Muslim students. You may request access during weekdays.
• Outdoors – With Jeju’s beaches, mountains, and peaceful parks, you can easily find quiet spots for prayer. Just bring your travel prayer mat and a Qibla app.

🧴 Essentials to Pack: Travel prayer mat, spray bottle for wudhu, and apps like Muslim Pro or Qibla Finder.

🌄 Must-Visit Attractions for Muslim Travellers

Jeju’s natural and cultural sites make it perfect for modest, meaningful travel experiences.

Top Attractions:

• Hallasan National Park – Hike Korea’s highest mountain and enjoy breathtaking views. Modest outdoor wear is suitable here.
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) – A UNESCO-listed volcanic crater with one of Korea’s most iconic sunrise views.
• Jeongbang & Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls – Spectacular waterfalls with picnic areas and walking trails.
• Seopjikoji & Woljeongri Beach – Peaceful coastal areas ideal for scenic walks and quiet reflection.
• Jeju Folk Village & Stone Park – Learn about Jeju’s traditional life and cultural heritage.

🏨 Muslim-Friendly Accommodation in Jeju

While there are no officially certified Muslim-friendly hotels yet, many guesthouses and resorts are open and welcoming to Muslim travellers. Some offer vegetarian or seafood-based breakfast options and are happy to assist with religious needs if informed in advance.

Tips:

• Choose hotels near Jeju City or Seogwipo for better access to attractions and restaurants.
• Ask if the hotel can provide a Qibla direction marker or a private space for prayer—most are willing to help.

✈️ Getting to Jeju

• From Seoul or Busan – Jeju is just a short domestic flight (1–1.5 hours) from Gimpo, Incheon, or Busan airports.
• Visa Information – Jeju is visa-free for many nationalities, but check updated regulations as mainland Korea may still require a visa.

💡 Muslim Travel Tips for Jeju

• Download apps like Halal Navi, Zabihah, or Muslim Pro to locate halal food and prayer facilities.
• Learn helpful Korean phrases like “halal eumnyang isseoyo?” (Do you have halal food?).
• Dress modestly and comfortably—locals in Jeju are used to international visitors and are generally respectful.
• Pack halal snacks or instant meals, especially if you're hiking or visiting remote areas.

🛫 Muslim-Friendly Incheon: Your Halal Gateway to Korea

Incheon is often seen as just a transit city, but it offers much more than its airport. With its growing Muslim-friendly facilities, cultural diversity, and scenic coastal charm, Incheon is a comfortable stopover that’s well worth exploring. Whether you're staying for a few hours or a few nights, you’ll find halal food, prayer spaces, and a welcoming environment that respects Muslim needs.

🕌 Prayer Facilities at Incheon International Airport

Incheon International Airport (both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) is one of the most Muslim-friendly airports in Asia, offering clean and accessible prayer rooms for Muslim travellers.

📍 Prayer Room Locations:

• Terminal 1: 4th Floor (Transit Area, near Gate 24)
• Terminal 2: 4th Floor (Airside Area), near Gate 231 – ask airport staff if unsure.

Facilities include:
Qibla direction, prayer mats, and wudhu area
⏰ Open 24 hours and free to use.

🍛 Halal & Muslim-Friendly Food in Incheon

Source: Visit Korea

While halal options are still growing, you’ll find a number of halal-friendly eateries, especially around the airport and in international districts like Bupyeong and Songdo.

Recommended Halal Spots:

• Dongmoon Restaurant (Incheon Airport T1, Transit Hotel Area) – Certified halal meals, ideal during layovers.
• Raj Indian Restaurant (Songdo) – A halal Indian restaurant run by Muslim owners.
• Arabian Food Restaurant (Bupyeong) – Serves halal kebabs and Middle Eastern dishes.
• Café Bene (various locations) – Offers coffee and vegetarian options (always check ingredients first).

Tip: At convenience stores like CU or GS25, look out for halal-certified cup noodles and snacks with the KMF (Korea Muslim Federation) label.

🙏 Where to Pray Outside the Airport

If you’re exploring Incheon or staying overnight:

• Songdo International Business District: Some hotels provide quiet spaces for prayer upon request.
• Inha University & other campuses: Have small multifaith prayer rooms used by international students.
• Public Parks or Hotel Rooms: A portable prayer mat and a Qibla app make it easy to pray anywhere quietly and respectfully.

🌇 Muslim-Friendly Activities in Incheon

Incheon offers peaceful seaside attractions and cultural areas perfect for modest and mindful exploration.

Top Places to Visit:

• Incheon Chinatown – The largest Chinatown in Korea; great for photography, tea shops, and souvenirs (always check ingredients when buying food items).
• Songdo Central Park – A modern park with canals, walking paths, and quiet corners for reflection or prayer.
• Incheon Grand Park – A spacious, family-friendly park ideal for a relaxing day out.
• Sinpo International Market – A good place to try seafood and local snacks (check ingredients beforehand).

🏨 Muslim-Friendly Hotels in Incheon

Many international hotels in Incheon are familiar with diverse traveller needs and are happy to accommodate Muslim guests.

Recommended Hotels:

• Nest Hotel Incheon – Near the airport, peaceful minimalist design, staff are helpful with Muslim-friendly requests.
• Grand Hyatt Incheon – Close to both terminals, spacious rooms, multilingual staff.
• Orakai Songdo Park Hotel – In Songdo, near halal restaurants and scenic parks.

💡 Tips for a Smooth Muslim Stopover in Incheon

• Use apps like Halal Navi or Zabihah to locate halal food nearby.
• Bring halal snacks or instant meals, especially for long transits or sightseeing.
• Many Koreans are still unfamiliar with the term "halal"—explain clearly: “no pork, no alcohol.”
• Consider staying in Songdo or Bupyeong for easier access to international food and Muslim-friendly services.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Korea Awaits You, Muslim Traveller

Travelling as a Muslim in South Korea is now more enjoyable and spiritually fulfilling than ever. From the vibrant city life of Seoul to the peaceful natural beauty of Jeju Island, the country is becoming increasingly aware and accommodating of the needs of Muslim visitors.

With more halal dining options, accessible prayer facilities, and locals who are respectful and welcoming, destinations like Busan, Incheon, Daegu, and Gyeongju are now easier to explore and more inclusive than before. Whether you're hiking a scenic trail, browsing through night markets, or enjoying a quiet moment in a mosque, there’s room in Korea for both your faith and your love for adventure.

So pack your prayer mat, download your favourite halal food apps, and prepare to explore Korea with confidence and curiosity. This is your time to experience a side of Korea that respects your values and nourishes your soul.