Ex-K-pop idol's mosque building plans in Korea met with local opposition
PTC News Desk: Local resistance and accusations of fraud are impeding former K-pop star Daud Kim's efforts to establish a mosque in Incheon, South Korea. Daud Kim, previously known as Jay Kim, transitioned to Islam in 2020 and has since garnered a substantial following on YouTube, with over 5.55 million subscribers.
Expressing his desire to provide more prayer spaces for Muslims in South Korea, Daud Kim embarked on the ambitious project of constructing a mosque in Incheon, a significant undertaking given the religious demographics of the region.
However, his plans have encountered numerous obstacles, including the termination of land contracts, bureaucratic hurdles, allegations of fraudulent activity, and opposition from local residents. South Korea, with a population of approximately 50 million, has a religious landscape dominated by irreligious individuals (56 per cent), followed by Protestants (19 per cent), Buddhists (15.5 per cent), and Catholics (8 per cent), according to the 2015 census.
Despite the presence of an estimated 150,000 Muslims in the country, comprising predominantly of laborers from Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Pakistan, alongside students and businesspersons, Daud Kim's initiative has faced significant pushback. The tensions surrounding the proposed mosque highlight broader societal challenges and complexities concerning religion, identity, and community in South Korea.
Mosque project in incheon faces opposition and administrative hurdles
Despite Daud Kim's public announcement of purchasing land in Incheon for a mosque, the previous landowner has requested contract termination, citing local resistance and concerns about property devaluation.
Residents near the proposed mosque site expressed strong opposition, fearing negative impacts on housing prices. Some objections were voiced on online forums, highlighting concerns about the mosque's potential effect on the local real estate market.
In addition to local opposition, administrative hurdles have emerged. The necessary permit for constructing a religious meeting place was not obtained, reportedly due to road conditions leading to the mosque site, according to local officials. This isn't the first time Daud Kim has attempted to establish a mosque. His previous project in Daegu was abandoned due to objections from locals.
Financial misconduct allegations shadow Daud Kim's mosque initiative
In addition to facing local resistance, Daud Kim is grappling with accusations of financial impropriety. Korean outlet JTBC and numerous internet users have accused Kim of mishandling funds from a previous mosque project in Daegu.
Critics have also raised concerns about Kim's alleged exploitation of his 2020 conversion to Islam for personal gain. Accusations suggest that he collected donations through unauthorised channels, prompting social media users to caution against contributing to his cause.
Furthermore, Kim's wife, Mia, who converted alongside him in 2020, has added to the controversy by alleging domestic abuse and accusing Kim of evading divorce proceedings. These personal allegations further complicate Kim's public image and his efforts to establish a mosque.
- With inputs from agencies
