The Seoul Central Masjid stands as a monumental landmark in the Itaewon district, holding the distinction of being South Korea’s first and largest mosque. Officially inaugurated in 1976, its construction was made possible by a land grant from the Korean government and generous funding from various Islamic nations, symbolizing early international goodwill and cultural recognition.
Architecturally, the mosque is striking, featuring traditional Islamic design elements such as grand minarets and a white facade that beautifully contrasts with the surrounding urban landscape. It serves as the primary spiritual and cultural hub for the Muslim community in the Seoul Capital Area.
Beyond its function as a place of worship—hosting daily prayers and large Friday congregations—the Masjid operates as a vital educational center. It hosts lectures in multiple languages and runs an Islamic Center, which includes classrooms and research facilities aimed at fostering understanding about Islam among the broader Korean public. The area around the mosque has naturally developed into a diverse hub, known for its concentration of halal restaurants and Middle Eastern shops. The Seoul Central Masjid remains an essential symbol of religious tolerance and multiculturalism in the heart of Seoul.
