K-pop Star Announces Plans to Build Mosque in South Korea
With less than 1% of South Korea's population being Muslim, there's need for greater recognition and support for their religious practices, this YouTuber's journey has sparked increased visibility and support for the minority Muslim community
Dawood Kim, a well-known South Korean singer and YouTube personality who embraced Islam in September 2019, has once again captured headlines with his announcement to construct a mosque in Incheon, a major port city in the country located 28 km from the capital, Seoul.
Kim, born Kim Kyung-woo and professionally known as Jay Kim, has openly shared his journey from being a popular entertainer to a devout Muslim through various social media channels, influencing many with his unique narrative.
This recent initiative was disclosed on Kim's Instagram account, where he unveiled documents and images of the acquired land for the mosque's construction.
Expressing his excitement and gratitude, he conveyed to his followers, “Finally, with your help, I have signed a contract for land to build a Masjid in Incheon. This place will soon become a mosque. I can’t believe this day has come.”
In addition to the mosque itself, Kim plans to establish an Islamic podcast studio, envisioning a versatile space that not only serves as a place for prayer but also as a hub for cultural exchange and education. "I aim to create a space for prayer and an Islamic podcast studio here," he emphasized, highlighting his vision to enrich the spiritual and educational resources of the community.
While acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead, Kim remains resolute and optimistic. "I understand that this is a significant undertaking, and there will be obstacles along the way, but I have faith in my ability to overcome them," he affirmed.
Beyond being a personal milestone, Kim views this project as a meaningful contribution to the evolving Muslim community in South Korea, where the presence of Islam is gradually gaining traction and acceptance.
Last year, Kim embarked on a sacred pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, performing Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan.
For Kim, this journey was not just a religious obligation but a deeply personal experience that reaffirmed his commitment to Islam and strengthened his connection to the global Muslim community.
When Kim announced his vision to build a mosque, he reached out to the public for financial support to make it a reality. He provided his bank account details for those who wished to contribute, inviting individuals to join him in this noble endeavor.
Less than 1% of South Korea's population identifies as Muslim. This community may be small, but it's steadily expanding, comprising approximately 180,000 followers according to the Korean Muslim Federation. Among them, 70% to 80% are immigrants, highlighting the diverse makeup of the community.
South Korea's first mosque, the Seoul Central Mosque, was erected in 1976, marking the beginning of formal Islamic religious infrastructure in the country.
Presently, there are 15 officially registered mosques nationwide, along with 150 to 200 musallas, smaller places of worship than mosques. These establishments are predominantly situated in major cities such as Seoul and Busan, catering to the needs of the growing Muslim population.
