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When researching the mosques in North Korea, you will come across the name Ar-Rahman Mosque. It is the only mosque in North Korea, located within the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang. Built to serve the embassy staff and visiting diplomats, it remains closed to the general public. The mosque follows Shia Islamic traditions and stands as a rare symbol of religious presence in a nation known for strict state-controlled beliefs. Though little is known about its interior, its significance lies in being North Korea’s sole place of Islamic worship.
Quick Details
Opening Date: Late 1980s
Location: Iranian Embassy, Pyongyang, North Korea
Cultural Significance: Only mosque in North Korea, serves diplomats
Activities: Private prayers, Friday sermons for diplomats only
Location
Photo: Kok Leng Yeo / Wikimedia Commons
Ar-Rahman Mosque is located within the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. The embassy is situated in the Munsu-dong diplomatic district, an area housing several foreign embassies. The mosque is not accessible to the general public and primarily serves embassy staff and visiting diplomats. It is approximately 5 km from Kim Il Sung Square, the central landmark of Pyongyang. The nearest metro station, Yonggwang Station, is about 3 km away.
How To Reach
Photo: Clay Gilliland / Wikimedia Commons
Ar-Rahman Mosque is inside the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang, North Korea. Since it is not open to the public, access is limited to embassy personnel and diplomats. Travellers can reach Pyongyang and view the city’s diplomatic district, but visiting the mosque itself is not permitted.
By Air: The nearest airport is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. Flights operate from Beijing, Shenyang, and Vladivostok.
By Train: International trains run from Beijing and Dandong to Pyongyang Railway Station.
By Road: Travel within North Korea requires government-approved guides and transportation.
Places To Visit Around The Only Mosque In North Korea
Here are 3 places worth visiting around Ar-Rahman Mosque in North Korea for an immersive travel experience:
1. Kim Il Sung Square
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Kim Il Sung Square, inaugurated in 1954, is Pyongyang’s central public space, hosting significant military parades, mass rallies, and cultural events. The square spans approximately 75,000 square meters, accommodating over 100,000 people. It is flanked by notable structures, including the Grand People’s Study House, the Korean Central History Museum, and the Korean Art Gallery. The square offers a panoramic view of the Juche Tower across the Taedong River, symbolizing North Korea’s ideological foundations.
Mode Of Transport: Taxi or guided tour vehicle
Cost Of Transport: 20 – 30 USD / ₹1733 – 2600
2. Arch Of Triumph
Photo: Thomas Bresson / Wikimedia Commons
Erected in 1982 to commemorate Korea’s resistance against Japanese occupation from 1925 to 1945, the Arch of Triumph stands 60 meters tall, surpassing its Parisian namesake. Constructed from white granite, it features intricate reliefs depicting revolutionary scenes and inscriptions of significant years, notably 1925 and 1945. Visitors can ascend to the observation platform for panoramic views of Pyongyang.
Mode Of Transport: Taxi or guided tour vehicle
Cost Of Transport: 20 – 30 USD / ₹1733 – 2600
3. Mansu Hill Grand Monument
Photo: Nicor / Wikimedia Commons
The Mansu Hill Grand Monument features towering bronze statues of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, each standing approximately 22 meters tall. Unveiled in 1972 and later expanded, the monument is a focal point for national ceremonies and offers insight into the country’s reverence for its leaders. The site includes intricate mosaics and sculptures depicting revolutionary scenes, providing visitors with a deep understanding of North Korea’s historical narratives and artistic expressions.
Mode Of Transport: Taxi or guided tour vehicle
Cost Of Transport: 20 – 30 USD / ₹1733 – 2600
Things to do at the Only Mosque in North Korea
Here are 3 must-have experiences at Ar-Rahman Mosque:
1. Observing the Unique Islamic Architecture
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Constructed in 2013, the Ar-Rahman Mosque showcases traditional Iranian architectural design, reflecting its Persian heritage. The mosque features a modest prayer hall, mihrab, and minbar, adhering to Shia Islamic traditions. Its presence within the embassy compound underscores the cultural and religious identity of the Iranian diplomatic community in Pyongyang. Given North Korea’s limited number of religious structures, the mosque stands out as a unique symbol of faith.
2. Experiencing A Private Prayer Session
Photo: RDNE Stock project / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For those granted permission, attending a prayer session at Ar-Rahman Mosque offers a rare opportunity to engage in Islamic worship within North Korea. The mosque primarily serves the Iranian embassy staff but also welcomes Muslim diplomats from other countries during significant religious observances. Friday prayers, in particular, see a congregation of diverse nationalities, fostering a sense of community among the Muslim diaspora in Pyongyang.
3. Engaging in Cultural Exchange and Learning
Photo: Rayn L / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
While direct access to the mosque is limited, those with authorization can engage with the diplomatic community to gain insights into the practice of Islam within North Korea. Discussions with embassy personnel can provide perspectives on maintaining religious traditions in a country where such practices are uncommon. This interaction offers a deeper understanding of the cultural adaptations and resilience of the Muslim community in Pyongyang.
Where To Stay
Photo: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Since Ar-Rahman Mosque is inside the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang and not open to the public, there are limited accommodation options nearby. Visitors to North Korea usually stay in state-approved hotels. The Koryo Hotel and Yanggakdo International Hotel are among the most popular choices, offering basic amenities, restaurants, and guided tour services. These hotels cater primarily to foreign diplomats, journalists, and tour groups. Booking must be arranged through government-approved tour operators.
Where To Eat
Photo: by LWY / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Since the Ar-Rahman Mosque is within the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang and not open to the public, dining options nearby are limited. Visitors to North Korea usually eat at designated restaurants within approved hotels. The Koryo Hotel Restaurant and Yanggakdo International Hotel Restaurant serve international and Korean cuisine. For Middle Eastern food, Pyongyang’s Iranian Embassy may cater to diplomats. Travellers must rely on pre-arranged meals from tour operators, as independent dining is restricted.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Xiehechaotian / Wikimedia Commons
Since Ar-Rahman Mosque is located inside the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang and is not open to the public, there is no specific visiting season for tourists. However, those with authorized access may find spring and autumn the best times to visit Pyongyang due to mild weather and clear skies. During Eid celebrations and Ramadan, the mosque becomes a focal point for diplomatic gatherings. Winters can be extremely cold, while summers are humid. All visits to North Korea must be arranged through government-approved tour agencies.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Precondo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- Travel in North Korea is highly controlled and must be arranged through government-approved tour agencies.
- Independent movement is prohibited. Tourists are always accompanied by state-assigned guides.
- Taking photos near government buildings, military zones, or sensitive locations is restricted.
- Internet access is unavailable for most visitors, and foreign SIM cards do not work.
- Dress modestly and respect North Korean customs at all times.
The only known mosque in North Korea is Ar-Rahman Mosque and it is located inside the Iranian Embassy in Pyongyang. While it remains off-limits to tourists, its existence offers a rare glimpse into religious life in one of the world’s most secretive nations. For travellers, North Korea is a place of strict rules, guided experiences, and controlled access. Every visit here is a step into a world few get to see. Find everything you need to know about visiting the Ar-Rahman Mosque with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Republic of Korea / Wikimedia Commons
