Many Judged, Ayana Moon Tells the Biggest Challenge of Being a Muslim in South Korea

Kapanlagi.com - Ayana Moon's figure is a hot topic in the homeland. Besides her beauty, Ayana is considered very inspiring because of her decision to embrace Islam even though she has to be a minority in South Korea.

Ayana said she started learning Islam at the age of 7. At that time, she learned about Islam from her grandfather who turned out to be of Iraqi descent.

"When I was 7 years old, I knew Islam from my grandfather, My grandfather is of Iraqi descent, so I learned from the internet, I learned from there," she said at the KapanLagi Korean Festival event.

1. Learn a Lot

The owner named Ayana Jihye Moon claims that she has learned a lot after converting to Islam. The belief she now follows has also made her a better person.

"Before I converted to Islam, I was actually part of a good and educated family. But I never appreciated that. Because I came from a wealthy family, I became more arrogant. But since I converted to Islam, I have learned a lot," she said.

2. Judged

Ayana Moon (credit: Kapanlagi.com)

Being a Muslim in South Korea, Ayana Moon certainly faced some challenges. However, she was able to overcome them and is now happier.

"When I first became a Muslim in Korea, I faced a lot of judgment. But after that, I learned a lot, and thankfully I have many friends in Indonesia. So, I am very happy here now," said the 24-year-old woman.

3. Halal Food

Living in South Korea as a Muslim, Ayana Moon also has to consider the halal aspect of the food she consumes. Currently, she prefers to eat in the Itaewon area, which is close to the mosque.

"Currently, Korea is experiencing the Sambok season, which is the hottest days. So, I have to eat healthy to maintain my health. That's why I go to Itaewon to find halal food in restaurants near the mosque," she said.

"Unfortunately, halal food is still rare in Korea. But there are many tourists coming from Indonesia, Malaysia, so there are some who are starting to understand about Islam (halal food)," she added.

(kpl/lou)