By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Salwa Elzeny from Egypt

Fasting is a uniquely moral and spiritual characteristic of Islam. Literally, fasting means to abstain "completely" from foods, drinks, sex and smoking, from sunrise until sunset, during the entire lunar month of Ramadan. Fasting not only gives one a sense of the suffering of the poor, but also teaches people the principle of sincere love. When a person fasts, they do it out of deep love for God. People who truly love God are people who really know what love is.

The rituals of celebrating the month of Ramadan vary from one country to another. This is my first time to spend Ramadan in Korea, but the ritual of fasting remains the same. Devout Muslims in Korea go to the mosque in Seoul in Itaewon during the holidays to worship during Ramadan. They read the Quran and pray, especially the Taraweeh prayer, which begins after the evening prayer. They gather to discuss issues at the mosque in terms of preparing and developing it during the month of Ramadan, and they prepare the Iftar breakfast for the fasters, and prepare many places to accommodate the worshipers.

Also during my visit to Itaewon, I saw Muslims turn to Islamic shops to buy halal food for the month. It's worth mentioning here that Koreans respect Islamic rituals. Many of them know the importance of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and know what is halal food.

Also, the weather in Korea is moderate and suitable for fasting, unlike many Arab countries. I would recommend Korea be your next destination for Muslim travelers who wish to visit it during May and June. Don't hesitate to come to Korea. The weather here is beautiful and you will not feel hungry or hot during the fasting period.

Itaewon is the top tourist destination in the city of Seoul. It has many international shops and brands, as well as restaurants selling halal food -- Arabic, Indian, Turkish and Italian cuisine -- for Muslim tourists and residents who come to Korea from all over the world. There is also the Islamic center and the first mosque in Korea and you can easily get there by subway.

wisdom117@korea.kr

* This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.