[Report] Korea's First Permanent Islamic Exhibition... "This Is the Mecca of Museums"

Permanent Exhibition Introduces Islamic Culture in Korea
Massive Quran Manuscript and Carpets on Display
Media Room Recreates a Reception Room from the Islamic World

On November 21, the area in front of Room 306, the "Islamic Gallery," in the World Culture Hall of the National Museum of Korea in Yongsan, Seoul, was bustling with activity from early in the morning. Officials from the Qatari Embassy and members of the press filled the lobby to celebrate the opening of Korea's first permanent Islamic exhibition. Khalid Ibrahim Al Hamar, Ambassador of Qatar to Korea, remarked, "This is a meaningful moment achieved together by Korea and Qatar," expressing his hope that it would serve as an opportunity to deepen mutual understanding between the two civilizations. The presence of more than ten attendees, including embassy staff and officials from the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, highlighted Qatar's special interest in the event.

Mihrab stone slab exhibited in the Islamic Gallery of the National Museum of Korea. It is generally used to indicate the direction of Mecca and was arranged to face Mecca in this exhibition as well. Photo by Seo Mideum

The atmosphere changed completely upon entering the exhibition hall. Soft, dimmed lighting, light filtering through geometric patterns, and quietly flowing music combined to create a tranquil ambiance, reminiscent of the interior of an Islamic mosque. What immediately caught the eye was the marble "Mihrab stone slab" standing at the front. The mihrab is a niche in a mosque that indicates the direction of Mecca, and the museum stated that it was installed to face the actual direction of Mecca.

Another highlight was the large prayer carpet, known as a "Shaf," believed to have been made in Warangal, India, in the 18th century. This wool-and-cotton carpet is large enough for more than six people to prostrate on at once. Kwon Hye-eun, the curator in charge of the exhibition commentary, explained, "During prayer, people sit as close together as possible," adding, "There is a tradition that if there is a gap, it is believed that evil spirits can enter through it."

A part of the 'Baisongur Quran,' known as the largest in the Islamic world. Photo by Seo Mideum

In the next section, a part of the "Baisongur Quran," known as the largest in the Islamic world, is on display, drawing visitors to a halt. The massive manuscript, measuring 177 cm wide and 111.5 cm tall, is written in the Muhaqqaq script with gold and ink on paper, exuding an overwhelming presence. It is said to have been produced for Timur, the founder of the Timurid Empire, and it is estimated that the complete manuscript would have required paper covering a total area of 2,700 square meters. This work demonstrates that calligraphy has established itself as an artistic authority, going beyond the act of simply recording scripture.

The highlight of the exhibition is the "Throne Carpet," which had the highest insurance value among the items on display. This enormous carpet, measuring 268 cm by 195 cm, was produced in Kerman, Iran, during the Safavid dynasty and is believed to have been used in spaces symbolizing the authority of kings or nobles. A museum official noted, "It was so large and delicate that transporting it was a significant challenge."

At the end of the exhibition, there is a media room recreating the "Damascus Noble’s Reception Room." In this quiet space, where light seeps through geometric patterns, visitors can sit and experience the aesthetic sensibilities of Islamic civilization. Tactile materials and educational content, which children can touch and explore, are also placed throughout, making the exhibition especially welcoming for families.

This exhibition will run until October 11 next year, the maximum period allowed for overseas loans under Qatari cultural law.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.