By Honorary Reporter Majid Mushtaq from Pakistan

Photos= Majid Mushtaq

The Muslim community in Korea is peaceful and vibrant, and they love the country as much as anyone. Ramadan occupies a special month on the Islamic calendar as one of the most significant holidays in the religion. Muslims double the number of prayers and religious rituals over these 30 days to appease God.

Though not all locals know about Ramadan, they respect the values, beliefs, rituals and customs of Islam. While I attended university, my professor always gave me a break during Ramadan so that I could offer prayers. My working friend said he is always allowed time to pray during working hours. This act of kindness is one of the many reasons I love Korea.

In Korea, fasting time this year is from 4:15 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Muslims usually do iftar (fast-breaking) at the mosques closest to them, but the largest gathering is held at the country's biggest mosque, Seoul Central Masjid. 

In addition, the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs also holds an annual iftar dinner with the diplomats and leading politicians of all Muslim countries. Ramadan is also observed with great reverence by Pakistanis in Korea, with many of them going to the Seoul mosque to offer prayers and read the Qur'an.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Seoul city government this year has suspended iftar, all congregational and Tarawih prayers, and all activities at mosques around the country until May 5.

This video shows more about how Pakistanis celebrate Ramadan in Korea.

As Korea believes in tolerance and togetherness, Muslims in the country are taken care of, especially this month. Koreans have a knack for celebrating each other's differences, and I feel Korean culture is all about respecting different customs. Thus Muslims in Korea are lucky to celebrate this month in this country.

chaey0726@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.