Islam’s Restricted Presence in North Korea

By Abdullahi Yusuf

Islam is one of the world’s major religions, with more than two billion followers globally. However, there are countries where the Muslim population is almost non-existent, and in some cases, the practice of Islam is effectively banned.

North Korea, under its strict regime led by Kim Jong-un, is one such country. While North Korea is officially an atheist state, it claims to allow religious freedom. However, this freedom is extremely limited and controlled by the government. Religious practices are only tolerated if they do not disrupt the social order or challenge the regime’s authority.

North Korea follows its own ideologies, namely Korean shamanism and Chongryonism, which are actively promoted by the government. While a small percentage of the population follows Buddhism and Christianity, any other religions, including Islam, are strictly restricted.

There are only about 3,000 Muslims in North Korea, and they do not have any public mosques for worship. The only mosque in the country is located within the Iranian Embassy in the capital, Pyongyang, and is primarily used by Iranian diplomats and their families.

Although North Korea and Iran maintain strong diplomatic relations, the practice of Islam within the country remains virtually non-existent for the general population. North Korea’s state policies and its totalitarian control over personal freedoms, including religious expression, make practicing any religion a dangerous act.

In a country where even the most basic personal freedoms are heavily restricted, including access to foreign media and communication, practicing Islam or other religions can be considered an act of defiance against the regime. Citizens who challenge the state’s strict rules often face severe consequences, including imprisonment or, in extreme cases, execution.

Thus, while North Korea officially claims to allow religious freedom, in reality, the practice of Islam is heavily restricted, and religious expression is monitored and suppressed by the government.

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