TIMES AUSTRALIA, SEOUL – Amid a week filled with cultural exchanges and international dialogue, a powerful moment of spiritual connection took place during the Korea Youth Summit 2025. Delegates from across the globe, particularly Muslim participants, were given the opportunity to visit the iconic Seoul Central Mosque in Itaewon, creating a meaningful interfaith and intercultural encounter in the heart of Seoul.

The visit was part of a broader city tour organized by the summit’s cultural program. For many Muslim delegates, this stop held special significance—it allowed them to perform their prayers in a peaceful space while also engaging with the local Muslim community.

Located in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, the Seoul Central Mosque stands as South Korea’s largest and oldest mosque, built in 1974 and officially opened two years later. Its tall minaret, inscribed with “Allahu Akbar,” remains a visual testament to religious presence and harmony in a predominantly non-Muslim society.

One of the chaperones from Indonesia, Mr. Yoga Ahmad Thohir of MAN 2 Kota Malang, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the moment. “Among the best things we love so much during our Seoul city tour with the delegates of Korea Youth Summit 2025 was that all the Muslim participants were given special time to visit and perform prayers at Seoul Central Mosque,” he shared.

In his eyes , South Korea is not all about K-Pop, K-Drama, Myeongdong street food, or Jeju Island, there’s also a hidden gem called Seoul Central Mosque with its community.

The mosque itself is far more than a place of worship. It is a cornerstone for Muslim life in the city, offering educational programs, hosting the Prince Sultan Islamic School, and supporting locals and travelers with its halal food center. This vibrant hub embraces both Muslims and non-Muslims, offering an open door for dialogue, learning, and cultural respect.

For the summit participants, the experience was more than just spiritual. It was a lesson in inclusion witnessing how Islamic practices flourish peacefully within South Korea's modern society. The Korea Youth Summit, known for its mission of global citizenship and mutual understanding, demonstrated that such gestures foster stronger unity among diverse backgrounds.

The organizers received warm thanks for accommodating the visit amidst a packed summit agenda. “Thank you to the organizer of Korea Youth Summit 2025 for making this visit possible,” Mr. Yoga concluded.

Through moments like this from faith to dialogue the Korea Youth Summit 2025 continues to build bridges between nations, cultures, and beliefs, showing that true unity begins with respect and open hearts. (*)