North Korea

Islam in North Korea is nearly nonexistent, and the country is considered one of the most closed and repressive towards all forms of religion, including Islam.

Muslims in North Korea

Number of Muslims:
There are no known native Muslim communities in North Korea. Any Muslims present are likely to be foreign diplomats, temporary workers, or visitors from Muslim-majority countries such as Iran, Egypt, or Pakistan.

Mosques:

  • North Korea has only one known mosque, the Ar-Rahman Mosque, located within the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang.
  • This mosque is not open to the North Korean public and is strictly for diplomatic staff.
  • It is sometimes described as the only functioning mosque in the entire country.

Religious Freedom:

  • North Korea’s constitution claims to guarantee freedom of religion, but in practice, all religious activity is strictly controlled or banned.
  • The regime promotes a state ideology called Juche, with heavy elements of personality cult around its leaders, Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-il, and Kim Jong-un.
  • Organized Islamic worship among local citizens is unknown and likely forbidden.

Muslim Presence:

  • Muslim countries like Iran and Syria maintain embassies in Pyongyang. Their diplomats are believed to be the only practicing Muslims in the country.
  • There are no Islamic organizations, schools, or halal food services for locals.

Islamic Influence:

  • Virtually none on the native population.
  • No Dawah (Islamic preaching) activity is permitted.

International Relations:

  • North Korea has diplomatic ties with several Muslim-majority nations, but this does not translate into religious activity within its borders.

Summary:

  • Islam in North Korea is limited to foreign diplomats.
  • No native Muslim population or public Islamic practice exists.
  • Ar-Rahman Mosque (Iranian embassy) is the only mosque in the country.

North Korea
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .kp
Country Code: +850