Halal Food & Mosques in Busan: A Student's Guide

Eating halal in Korea takes a little practice, but Busan makes it easier than you might think. Here is where to pray, how to find halal food, and the Korean words to look for on labels.

Busan Al-Fatah Mosque

The Korea Islamic Busan Masjid (Busan Al-Fatah Mosque) has served Busan's Muslim community since 1980.

• Address: 113-13 Geumdan-ro, Geumjeong-gu, Busan (부산 금정구 금단로 113-13)
• Subway: about a 6-minute walk from Dusil Station (Line 1), Exit 8
• Phone: 051-518-9991

The mosque is in the Namsan-dong area, where you will also find halal shops and restaurants nearby. Dress modestly when you visit.

Prayer rooms

Gimhae Airport has a prayer room on the 3rd floor of the international terminal, with washing facilities and prayer mats. For other prayer rooms around Korea, use the Korea Tourism Organization prayer room search.

How restaurants are labeled

The Korea Tourism Organization groups restaurants into four types. Knowing them helps you choose:

• Halal Certified: certified by an official body such as the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF).
• Self Certified: the Muslim owner declares that all food is halal.
• Muslim Friendly: some halal dishes, but alcohol may be sold.
• Pork-free: no pork, but no halal menu, and alcohol may be sold.

At the supermarket, look for the KMF halal logo on packaging.

Korean words to check on labels

Many Korean snacks, ramen and sauces contain pork extract or cooking wine. When in doubt, check the ingredients list (원재료명) on the back.

Tips from students

• Cooking in your dorm or with friends is the easiest and cheapest way to eat halal every day.
• Seafood and vegetable dishes are common in Busan, but ask whether the broth contains meat.
• Save the Korean sentence "돼지고기와 술을 먹지 못해요" (I cannot eat pork or alcohol) on your phone to show at restaurants.

Sources: Visit Busan · Korea Tourism Organization · KMF Halal