Experience Cultural Richness!

WHY VISIT

An unfamiliar structure hides among the apartment complexes: an Islamic masjid, a rare sight in Korea. “Masjid” means mosque, a Muslim place of worship and literally, an Islamic place of prayer. Located in Namsan-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, the Busan Al-Fatih Masjid is the second of 19 masjids opened in South Korea. Built in 1980 with the help of a Libyan benefactor, it has served as a spiritual refuge for Muslims and as a bridge for raising awareness of Islam in Korea. The large domes and pointed minarets atop the white building are impressive. It is said that only two Islamic masjids in Korea were built in the traditional mosque style: Seoul Central Masjid and Busan Al-Fatih Masjid. Follow the stairs up the side of the building to the second floor, where you'll find a high-ceilinged chapel. In the center of the ceiling is the white dome you saw from outside, carved with colorful ornament including crescents and stars, symbols of Islam. The geometric beauty of the arabesque pattern is breathtaking, and it's amazing that such an exotic landscape can be found in Busan. The chapel is not very large, but it adheres well to the traditions of a mosque. Features such as the mihrab, a niche in the wall indicating the direction to Mecca, the minbar, the pulpit from which the imam (prayer leader) delivers the sermon, and the separation of the men's and women's prayer rooms on the second and third floors help visitors understand the religion of Islam. When visiting mosques, long sleeves and trousers should be worn, and access may be restricted during the JUMAH service, which takes place every Friday from 13:00 to 13:30. Please do not attend the JUMAH service to respect their culture and religion, as it is an important community service for Muslims. The mosque is open at all hours, but it is recommended to avoid visiting too early or too late.