Chungju Cemetery


The Chungju Muslim Cemetery is the first Muslim cemetery in the South Korea established specifically for observant Muslims. It is located within in Angseong-myeon, Chungju, North Chungcheong Province.

History

The need for a Muslim Cemetry in South Korea had long been expressed by the local Muslim community. Before the establishment of the Chungju site, Muslims in Korea faced difficulties conducting burials according to their religious laws, as most Korean cemeteries practiced cremation, which is not permitted under islamic law.
Efforts to create a dedicated Muslim burial site began in the early 2000s under the leadership of the Korea Muslim Federation. Financial challenges initially slowed progress until 2002, when then the Abdul Razak Abdul Ghani expressed interest in the project. Through his diplomatic support, the Qatari government pledged financial assistance, contributing approximately to the cemetery’s development.
Construction of the Chungju Muslim Cemetery began in early 2004, and the site was completed on June 28, 2004. A dedication ceremony followed shortly after, attended by representatives from the Qatari Embassy, KMF Chairperson Son Ju-young, and officials of.

Development

The cemetery was built on a plot measuring 1,150 pyeong, located within the Jindallae Memorial Park complex in Angseong-myeon, Chungju. The site follows Islamic funeral procedures, including:
  • Burials oriented toward the Qibla.
  • Earth burial rather than cremation.
  • Simple gravestones without elaborate decoration.
  • Individual burial plots in keeping with Islamic modesty traditions.
According to the KMF, the cemetery aimed to alleviate the significant financial burden of burial on low-income Muslims, as private graves or imported funeral services were previously unaffordable for many Koreans of the Islamic faith.

Land and legal Status

The cemetery land is under a long-term lease agreement in accordance with South Korea’s Cemetery and Burial Law. Under this regulation, religious burial grounds in South Korea are leased for 60 years, renewable upon expiration. The Korea Muslim Federation manages the lease in cooperation with Chungju City and management systems.
This arrangement ensures that the cemetery remains available for Islamic burials but does not transfer permanent ownership to any organization. Renewal discussions are expected to take place around 2066.