Exploring Seoul’s Rich Islamic Heritage: A Guide to Seoul Central Mosque & Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey with MOVV

If you’re planning a cultural journey through Seoul and looking to understand the diversity that thrives within the city, the Seoul Central Mosque in Itaewon should be a top destination on your itinerary. As Korea’s first-ever mosque, this spiritual and cultural landmark offers a unique glimpse into the country’s growing multicultural identity. In this blog post, We’ll share everything you need to know for your visit to the mosque, how to explore the nearby Muslim-friendly places, and how to make your journey easier and more comfortable with MOVV — the leading private car service platform in Korea.

🕌 A Cultural Gem in the Heart of Seoul: Seoul Central Mosque

Located in the vibrant Itaewon district, the Seoul Central Mosque (서울 중앙성원) has been a vital center for the Muslim community in South Korea since its official opening in 1976. The land for the mosque was graciously granted by the Korean Government and its construction was funded with the help of various Islamic countries, underlining unity and support for cultural diversity. Today, the mosque serves not only as a religious space but also as a valuable hub for Islamic education and interfaith communication.

✨ Key Highlights:

• Historic Significance: The first and most prominent mosque in Korea.
• Educational Center: Offers learning opportunities about Islam to visitors of all cultures.
• Multicultural Symbol: Represents Korea’s commitment toward religious tolerance.

Visiting Seoul Central Mosque offers peaceful architectural beauty paired with spiritual significance — and yes, it’s open to public visitors (outside of prayer times). Make sure to dress modestly, as the mosque adheres to Islamic customs. Women are expected to cover their heads and wear long garments (scarves and skirts are available at the entrance).

📍 Address: 732-21 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
🕒 Open Hours: Open to visitors outside of Friday Jumu’ah prayer time
💸 Entrance Fee: Free (donations welcome)

🍛 While You’re There: Halal Food Explorations in Itaewon

Itaewon is a melting pot of cultures and the ideal place to explore a variety of halal eateries. Whether it’s Turkish kebabs, Indian curry, or Korean cuisine with halal ingredients, Itaewon has something for everyone.

Some tips for dining:

• Look for halal certification by the Korea Muslim Federation.
• Visit places with strong reviews via tourism sites or community recommendations.

🚘 Make Travel Easy & Comfortable with MOVV

Korea’s public transportation is excellent, but when you’re traveling with family, carrying luggage, or looking for a more private and convenient option, MOVV is the perfect choice.

What is MOVV?
MOVV is a trusted, government-certified private mobility service that matches you with vehicles and drivers in Korea and abroad. Whether you need a daily charter, an airport transfer, or a ticket for KTX, MOVV has you covered with hassle-free, reliable, and safe service.

💼 Perfect Services for Your Trip:

1. Private Car Charter – Ideal for visiting multiple destinations in a single day around Seoul, or surrounding cities like Gyeongju or Busan.
   • Book here: MOVV Private Car Charter
   • 🎉 Get your discount here: Charter Coupon Event
2. Airport Transfers – No need to queue for taxis or stress over directions after a long flight. A MOVV driver will greet you at the airport and drive you straight to your hotel or destination.
3. KTX Train Tickets – If you’re planning to travel beyond Seoul, such as to Busan or Daegu, the high-speed KTX is the fastest way.
   • Check out tickets here: MOVV KTX Tickets
   • 🎫 For discounts: KTX Coupon Event

💡 Planning Tips for Visiting Seoul Central Mosque

• 🚉 How to get there: Take subway line 6 to Itaewon Station. From Exit 3, it’s a short uphill walk (~7 minutes).
• ⚠️ Friday Tip: Avoid visiting during Jumu’ah prayer time (approximately 12pm-2pm), especially for non-Muslim tourists, as entry to the prayer areas is restricted.
• 📷 Don’t forget your camera! The mosque is not only a place of significance but also stunning in design — ideal for cultural photography.

☕ Nearby Stop: Relax at a Modern Cafe in Itaewon

Need a break after your visit? Try one of Itaewon’s hidden gems like the minimalist Modern Coffee Shop near the mosque — perfect for coffee lovers, design enthusiasts, and a quiet moment to journal your thoughts from the mosque visit.

✈️ Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking

The Seoul Central Mosque is more than a religious site — it’s a story of cultural acceptance, spiritual dialogue, and shared human values. Whether you’re a practicing Muslim, a curious traveler, or someone interested in Korea’s multicultural side, this destination offers something meaningful.

And to make your experience smoother, MOVV stands ready as your travel companion, ensuring you focus on the journey, not the logistics.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, enjoy a serene visit to Korea’s first mosque, and let MOVV handle the rest.

Have you visited the Seoul Central Mosque or experienced MOVV’s car service? Share your story in the comments below! Your insights might inspire someone’s trip to Korea ❤️