Source: Halal Times

Kawaguchiko, Japan – In the bustling heart of South Korea’s capital lies Myeongdong, a marketplace that has transformed itself into a beacon of cultural inclusivity. What truly sets this vibrant Seoul market apart isn’t just its dazzling array of products or the energetic atmosphere – it’s the intentional welcome extended to Muslim visitors that has revolutionized the experience.

During a recent exploration of Myeongdong following a journalism conference, it wasn’t the typical K-pop merchandise or skincare products that made the strongest impression. Instead, it was the sight of “Alsalam ealaykum” displayed in both English and Arabic calligraphy at a takoyaki stand, accompanied by a simple note stating “Muslims can eat.”

Engaging with the vendor revealed a genuine understanding of the greeting’s significance. “It’s a greeting for Muslims, meaning ‘peace be with you,'” he explained with confidence. “It’s my way of welcoming people here and letting them know my food is for everyone.” This small gesture exemplifies the broader transformation occurring throughout Seoul’s market culture.

Strategic Evolution Toward Muslim-Friendly Tourism

Since 2016, South Korea has strategically positioned itself to attract Muslim travelers, recognizing the substantial economic potential of halal tourism. Despite the country’s traditional culinary landscape featuring pork and alcohol, authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to accommodate Muslim visitors’ specific needs.

The results speak volumes. By 2019, Muslim tourism to South Korea surpassed one million annual visitors. Following a pandemic-related decline, the sector rebounded impressively with 985,000 Muslim visitors in 2023 – a 33 percent increase from the previous year, with projections suggesting the one-million threshold was crossed again in 2024.

This growth stems from deliberate initiatives. The South Korean government and businesses have expanded halal-certified restaurants nationwide, published comprehensive guidebooks detailing Muslim-friendly amenities, and established prayer rooms in strategic locations. Annual events like the Salam Seoul Festival and Halal Restaurant Week Korea further demonstrate the country’s commitment to embracing Muslim tourists.

Myeongdong: The Epicenter of Change

Myeongdong exemplifies this national transformation. Once predominantly offering non-halal options, the market now features numerous vendors proudly displaying halal certifications, reflecting its adaptability to visitors’ evolving needs.

Hamad Al Harbi, a Saudi engineer on his sixth visit to Seoul, highlights this dramatic shift. “This is one of my all-time favorite cities; I never get bored with it,” he shared. His first visit in 2014 was challenging, with limited halal dining options forcing him to rely on Italian cuisine. Today, however, the experience is radically different: “I don’t worry about what to eat anymore, and I keep coming back for the food experience.”

So impressed was Al Harbi that he brought his family to Seoul during Eid Al Fitr, staying near Myeongdong specifically to enjoy its offerings. “We visit the street market every night, and we enjoy all the food they offer, from the tteokbokki and Korean fried chicken to the hotteok,” he enthused. The clear halal markings provide essential reassurance that allows his family to fully embrace Seoul’s culinary diversity.

Beyond Halal: The Complete Myeongdong Experience

While halal food availability represents a significant attraction for Muslim visitors, Myeongdong’s appeal extends far beyond dietary considerations. The market is a sensory wonderland where fashion trends emerge, innovative cosmetics dazzle consumers, and Seoul’s dynamic street culture pulses through every interaction.

Navigating Myeongdong means discovering a maze of narrow streets housing trendy boutiques, designer shops, international cosmetic brands, and eclectic souvenir stalls. The marketplace vibrates with energy from flowing crowds and music emanating from shops, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously exhilarating and inviting.

Street food remains central to the experience. Beyond halal takoyaki, visitors can sample Korean specialties like spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes in gochujang sauce), crispy Korean fried chicken with various sauces, and sweet hotteok (pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts). Other favorites include gyeranppang (egg bread), odeng (fish cakes), and an extensive selection of grilled meats and seafood.

The market also showcases South Korea’s renowned beauty industry, with countless shops offering everything from popular sheet masks to pioneering cosmetic innovations. Competitive pricing makes it attractive for both local and international shoppers exploring K-beauty products.

More importantly, Myeongdong provides authentic cultural immersion through interactions with vendors, the sounds of Korean language, and the market’s distinctive energy – a place where tradition meets modernity and global trends intersect with local character.

The Future of Muslim-Friendly Tourism in Seoul

Myeongdong’s success in attracting Muslim tourists offers a compelling model for destinations seeking to engage with this growing market segment. The key lies in genuinely understanding and addressing Muslim travelers’ specific needs – from halal food options and prayer facilities to creating an authentically welcoming atmosphere.

The increasing Muslim visitation to South Korea represents both economic opportunity and cultural enrichment. As the country enhances its Muslim-friendly infrastructure and promotes its diverse attractions, it positions itself as an increasingly prominent destination for Muslim travelers worldwide.

Seoul’s market culture, characterized by dynamic energy, diverse offerings, and growing inclusivity, plays a central role in this evolution. Its adaptability to visitors’ changing needs – exemplified by expanded halal options and Arabic greetings – highlights its enduring appeal and importance as both cultural and economic hub in Seoul’s heart.

For Muslim travelers seeking a welcoming destination that honors their dietary requirements while offering immersive cultural experiences, Seoul’s markets, particularly Myeongdong, provide a compelling and increasingly accessible option. As South Korea continues embracing diversity, its position as a global destination strengthens, creating meaningful connections across cultures through shared experiences in its vibrant marketplaces.

Original Articles:

halaltimes.com. (n.d.). Seoul Market Truly Embraces Muslim Visitors Through the Salam Alaykum Experience. Retrieved April 22, 2025, from https://www.halaltimes.com/seoul-market-truly-embraces-muslim-visitors-through-the-salam-alaykum-experience/