
Where to Find Halal Restaurants in Seoul: A Friendly Guide for Muslim Travelers
Seoul is a dazzling city of contrast — where centuries-old palaces sit just around the corner from sleek skyscrapers, and the scent of sizzling street food fills the air at every turn. But for Muslim travelers, there’s always that one big question: “Can I find Halal food in Korea?”
The answer is: YES — and more easily than ever! Thanks to a growing number of Muslim-friendly initiatives, Halal-certified restaurants, and global demand, Seoul is becoming increasingly inclusive for visitors from Islamic countries. Whether you’re craving Korean BBQ or just a comforting bowl of biryani, here’s a beginner’s guide to navigating Seoul’s Halal food scene like a pro.
What is Halal Food in Korea?
“Halal” means “permissible” in Arabic, and when it comes to food, it refers to meals prepared according to Islamic dietary laws. In Korea, 할라 식당 – Halal restaurants generally fall into three categories:
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Halal-Certified Restaurants – Approved by the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF) or other authorities.
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Self-Certified Halal (by Muslim Owners) – Owned by Muslim chefs/owners who follow Halal practices, but not officially certified.
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Pork-Free / Muslim-Friendly Options – Korean restaurants that don’t use pork or alcohol and offer vegetarian or seafood alternatives.
Recommend Halal Restaurants in Seoul You Should Try
1. The Halal Guys (할랄가이즈 홍대점)
📍 Hongdae
This NYC-famous Halal chain brings bold Middle Eastern-American flavours to Seoul! Known for their juicy chicken & gyro platters, fluffy pita, and signature white & red sauces. A great break from Korean food when you’re craving something different.
✅ Halal-friendly (not KMF certified)
❌ No prayer room
Tip: The flavor is strong, but reviews are mixed — go for the classic combo platter and ask for extra sauce!
2. Busanjib Hongdae Branch – Halalfood (부산집)
📍 Hongdae
One of the highest-rated Halal Korean BBQ spots in Seoul! Busanjib serves up juicy Hanwoo beef, spicy kimchi soup, and crispy Korean fried chicken — all Halal certified. Spacious interior, elevator access, and perfect for families too.
✅ Halal Certified
🕌 Prayer room & clean restroom with bidet available
Tip: Try the japchae and black bean noodles — locals and tourists rave about them!
3. Busanjib Hongdae Branch – Halalfood (부산집)
📍 Hongdae
One of the highest-rated Halal Korean BBQ spots in Seoul! Busanjib serves up juicy Hanwoo beef, spicy kimchi soup, and crispy Korean fried chicken — all Halal certified. Spacious interior, elevator access, and perfect for families too.
✅ Halal Certified
🕌 Prayer room & clean restroom with bidet available
Tip: Try the japchae and black bean noodles — locals and tourists rave about them!
4. Gurkha Indian Restaurant (구르카)
📍 Myeongdong
If you’re craving authentic Indian and Nepalese Halal food in the heart of Myeongdong, Gurkha is a must-visit! With its cozy ambiance, flavorful curries, and freshly baked naan, this spot has become a favorite among locals and Muslim travelers alike.
✅ Halal Options Available
🕌 Prayer space available upon request
Must-tries: Palak Paneer, Chicken Momo, and Tandoori Chicken — all bursting with spice and soul.
Tip: It’s located just steps from Myeongdong Station and offers delivery, takeaway, and dine-in.
5. CHAEUM KOREAN TRADITIONAL RESTAURANT (명동채움한정식)
📍 Myeongdong
Looking for an authentic Korean hanjeongsik (한정식) experience that’s also Muslim-friendly? CHAEUM is a hidden gem located in the heart of Myeongdong — serving beautifully presented Korean set meals with a generous variety of banchan (side dishes), many of which are refillable!
✅ Halal-friendly (Ask staff for Halal meat details)
🕌 Prayer room not on-site, but nearby at Myeongdong Mosque
Highlights: Try their soy sauce marinated crab and enjoy a warm, peaceful dining experience with top-notch hospitality. Even if you arrive near closing time, they’ll welcome you with full service and a smile 😊
💡 Tip: It’s located on B2 (basement level), so follow signs carefully. Great for couples, families, and first-timers to traditional Korean dining.
6. Indian Restaurant Taj (타지)
📍 Myeongdong
Looking for an authentic Korean hanjeongsik (한정식) experience that’s also Muslim-friendly? CHAEUM is a hidden gem located in the heart of Myeongdong — serving beautifully presented Korean set meals with a generous variety of banchan (side dishes), many of which are refillable!
✅ Halal-friendly (Ask staff for Halal meat details)
🕌 Prayer room not on-site, but nearby at Myeongdong Mosque
Highlights: Try their soy sauce marinated crab and enjoy a warm, peaceful dining experience with top-notch hospitality. Even if you arrive near closing time, they’ll welcome you with full service and a smile 😊
💡 Tip: It’s located on B2 (basement level), so follow signs carefully. Great for couples, families, and first-timers to traditional Korean dining.
7. Yang Good (양국)
📍 Gangnam (Nonhyeon)
Yang Good is a legendary Korean BBQ restaurant known for its juicy Halal lamb and chicken — a rare find in Seoul! This place is perfect for Muslim travellers craving that sizzling Korean BBQ experience without worrying about pork.
🔥 BBQ with a twist: Their signature lamb skewers and marinated lamb are grilled to perfection at your table by friendly staff. Expect melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and smoky goodness in every bite.
✅ Halal lamb & chicken served
🚫 Not KMF-certified, but widely trusted by Muslim travellers
🕌 No prayer room, but Gangnam Mosque is a short drive away
Highlights: Authentic Korean BBQ vibe, but Halal. Helpful staff who grill for you. Always crowded — reservations highly recommended!
💡 Tip: Last order is at 10:30 PM, so go early — or be lucky like the reviewer who walked in late and still got a seat!
8. King Kebab Gangnam (킹케밥 강남점)
📍 Gangnam (Nonhyeon)
Yang Good is a legendary Korean BBQ restaurant known for its juicy Halal lamb and chicken — a rare find in Seoul! This place is perfect for Muslim travellers craving that sizzling Korean BBQ experience without worrying about pork.
🔥 BBQ with a twist: Their signature lamb skewers and marinated lamb are grilled to perfection at your table by friendly staff. Expect melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and smoky goodness in every bite.
✅ Halal lamb & chicken served
🚫 Not KMF-certified, but widely trusted by Muslim travellers
🕌 No prayer room, but Gangnam Mosque is a short drive away
Highlights: Authentic Korean BBQ vibe, but Halal. Helpful staff who grill for you. Always crowded — reservations highly recommended!
💡 Tip: Last order is at 10:30 PM, so go early — or be lucky like the reviewer who walked in late and still got a seat!
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