With mouth-watering food, peaceful environment, mysterious temples, and k-drama series Seoul is becoming one of the favorite cities to visit for Muslim Travellers. I always wanted to visit Seoul and dreamed of walking on the colorful streets of this extraordinary city. Korean culture was a mystery for me. I could easily say that every Korean I met made me fall in love with the culture with their kindness and respect.
How to get Seoul City from Incheon International Airport?
Once you arrive at Incheon International Airport, there are several transportation options that can get you to Seoul city. Of course, I preferred to take a subway because my hotel was just a few meters away from Myeongdong metro station. It’s easy to figure out which line to take, however, it’s wise to download an offline map in advance. After I arrived at the airport, I bought a T-money card from 7-eleven and loaded some money on the card. (FYI: You can also use that card on many shops like a debit card) It took almost an hour to get to Myeongdong by metro.
Hint: As a first-timer, you may not recognize that red & pink seats are designated for pregnant women and elderly. Keep that in mind and do not sit on these seats. Where to stay as a Muslim Solo Traveller in Seoul?
I know that this is the most important question in your mind because you want to stay in a Muslim-friendly area and where you can have easy access to halal food.
So, I have got some great news for you!
It’s really easy to find halal food in Seoul. I choose the Myengdong area to stay as there were 3 halal restaurants and 1 halal market on the same street as my hotel. Kampungku and Busanjib Restaurants were my favorite…
One of the many reasons to admire Korean culture is their kindness and respect. As a Muslim, you never feel the gaze on you in Korea. This is definitely a Muslim-friendly country!
Myeongdong area is a very convenient area to stay for travelers. This area is the famous shopping district in town with easy access by metro. Besides Myeongdong, Itaewon is a favourite area for many Muslim travelers,. There is a variety of halal street food and restaurants as well as the Seoul Central Mosque.
Top 3 Halal Hotel Recommendation in Seoul:
Hamilton Hotel
Hotel Skypark Central Myeongdong
Hotel Skypark Dongdaemun I
HINT: Since I was traveling solo, I preferred to stay in a capsule hotel as it was more budget-friendly. There was no prayer room or sign showing the kiblah direction, but the staff was very friendly and the ambiance of the hotel was perfect for a Muslim traveler. If you’re looking for affordable accommodation, definitely consider capsule hotels.I will write about my experiences staying in capsule hotels in another blog…Halal Food in Seoul & Halal Korean Food
Bulgogi, Ddukbokki, Kimchi, Dakgalbi, Bibimbap, Bibimbap again, Bibimbap once more, and more… You get it, just try Bibimbap! If you’re traveling to Korea, you must try Korean food. Trust me, it is DELICIOUS!
I think this topic deserves its own blog but I want to give some brief information beforehand.
Below are the TOP 5 Halal certified Restaurants in Seoul:
1. EID Halal Korean Food
Address: 67, Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
2. Makan Halal Korean Restaurant
Address: 52, Usadan-ro 10 gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea 140-911
3. Kampungku Authentic Malaysian Restaurant
Address: 25 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
4. Saffron Restaurant (Middle Eastern)
Address: 78 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
5. Halal Kitchen (Korean)
Address: 86-4 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, SeoulRelated Articles
Top 10 Muslim Friendly Things to Do in Seoul
There are so many things to do in this awesome city. I focused on several popular areas in my trip, check out my suggestions for Muslim travelers to create beautiful memories in Seoul.
1. Get lost in endless streets of Myeongdong
The best place to shop till you drop.
Delicious street food.
If you’re a skincare junkie, Myeongdong is a paradise for you!
2. Rent a beautiful Hanbok
There is a wide range of designs and sizes available.
Also, you can save on entrance fees at touristic attractions if you’re wearing hanbok.
You can enter Gyeongbokgung Palace for free if you’re wearing hanbok.
Take a lot of pictures at Bukchon Hanok Village before returning your hanbok.
3. Visit Iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace
You’ll admire the beautiful architecture.
There is a Royal Guard-Changing Ceremony every day at 10am and 2pm, don’t miss it!
4. Bukchon Hanok Village
This is a residential area and very popular for tourists, but keep your voice down to respect the residents.
You’ll love the tiny alleys and hanoks (traditional Korean houses).
5. Everland
Korea’s largest theme park. Check opening hours before and purchase your tickets in advance to skip the line and save money. There are many thrilling rides and family-friendly rides. Great for Muslim families to spend some quality time with their children.
6. Visit N Seoul Tower
After exploring Myeongdong, head out to the highest point in Seoul. Seoul’s famous tower known as N Seoul Tower located in the Namsan mountain. Take the shuttle bus from Myeongdong to get to the cable car.
7. Itaewon
Itaewon is one of the liveliest areas in Seoul and most of the Muslim population reside here. Visit the Seoul Central Mosque and meet with the Muslim community, try delicious halal food, and enjoy an educational session at the National Museum of Seoul.
8. Gangnam-style
Yes, we all have heard that famous song! Gangnam is a world-famous hot spot for the latest trends. Lotte World amusement park, Seoul Sky observatory, COEX Mall, Bongeunsa Temple, and Samsung d’light are located in this area. You can find the most luxurious shops in Gangnam.
Hint: If you don’t like walking a lot, try Lime (electric scooter). It’s available in Gangnam area and very easy to rent, simply download the app and use QR code.9. Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Don’t forget to visit DDP. A major urban landmark in the heart of Seoul. This is the most Instagrammed location in Korea. Get inspired by the futuristic designs.
10. Watch Nanta Show
Non-verbal comedy show. It’s family-friendly and it is fine even if you don’t know Korean. Purchase your tickets online and save 30%.
There is still so much to see in Seoul… I’ll share all my other experiences about this spectacular city in another blog. I will definitely pay another visit.
Enjoy your trip and feel free to ask any questions.
I highly recommend getting a tailor-made Muslim-friendly travel itinerary from Halal Travel Experts to conquer Seoul like a pro.