So you are planning to travel to Korea but want to know how Halal friendly it is? Fear not, we have hooked up with Halal travel experts: Have Halal Will Travel, to bring you tips on how to plan and enjoy your trip.
Tip 1. While Korea is a Muslim-minority country, there has been an increasing number of Muslim-friendly eateries. Yes, that includes halal Korean food so get ready to feast on halal bibimbap, Korean BBQ and more!
Tip 2. As it's more challenging to find halal food outside of Itaewon, here are some phrases you can use when looking for seafood and vegetarian meal options:
Tip 3. If you would like to stay near the halal eateries, they are usually located near the mosques as that's where the Muslim community is. So if you're in Seoul, that's Itaewon where the Seoul Central Masjid is at.
Tip 4. As drinking alcohol during meals is a part of the Korean culture, you'll find that alcohol is served at most eateries.
Tip 5. Itching to try Korean street food? While all of them are not halal-certified, there are a few street snacks that are Muslim-friendly – eg. Gyeran Bbang (egg bread) and Hotteok (Korean pancake filled with brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon). If in doubt, you can check with the stallholders with regards to the ingredients.
Tip 6. If you're wondering about the prayer times in Seoul, check out the official Korea Muslim Federation website for more details
Tip 7. Download the HHWT Travel Planner app to find the best Muslim-friendly eateries, attractions and prayer spaces all in one place. All you have to do is create your trip on the app, save places of interest and bring your itinerary along with you. It's that simple!
In collaboration with Have Halal Will Travel
Most halal eateries are located near the Seoul Central Masjid. If you're hoping to stay near all the yummy food, you'll want to book an accommodation in Itaewon!
Thinking of all the yummy Korean food you have to try in Seoul? Download the HHWT Travel Planner app to find Muslim-friendly Korean eateries, attractions and prayer spaces all in one space. Start planning your trip, you'll need to try Korean BBQ in Seoul!
Get your T-Money card! It's a pre-loaded card that allows you to take public transport at a slightly lower fare as compared to purchasing tickets separately. You can easily top-up your card at train stations or most convenience stores.
Love seafood? You have to visit Jagalchi Fish Market (also Korea's largest seafood market) for the freshest seafood. Pick the seafood you want and head to the restaurants on the second floor for your food to be prepared. Do note that there will be a fee for preparation but this will be cheaper than heading right to the restaurants for your seafood feast!
As one of the most well known beaches in South Korea, a trip to Haeundae Beach is a must when you're in Busan! If you're hungry after all that water sports and beach activities, stop for a meal at any of the halal eateries around the area.
With endless rows of colourful houses built on the steep foothills, it's no surprise that
Gamcheon Culture Village is known as the “Machu Picchu of Busan”. The best way to explore this area is to get lost in the winding alleys and check out the vibrant murals and sculptures along the way. Don't forget to put on a pair of comfortable shoes because you're going to do a lot of walking!
As there are very few halal-certified eateries, be prepared to go on a seafood or vegetarian diet when you're on Jeju Island. The good news is, Jeju Island is well known for its really fresh seafood! Do note that almost every eatery serves alcohol, as this is part of the Korean culture.
If you're travelling with a bigger group (at least 3-4 people), the best way to travel around Jeju Island is to hire a private driver. As the island is huge, taking public transport will be more inconvenient. Your driver will be able to provide a local's perspective for sights you have to visit as well!
Are you a massive fan of tea? You'll love the O'Sulloc Tea Museum where you can learn more about Korea's traditional tea culture. End off your visit at the tea store for a cuppa green tea and if you're lucky, you might catch the staff roasting the tea leaves too!