South Korean tourist embraces Islam in Turkey’s historic Mardin
A South Korean tourist embraced Islam while visiting the historic city of Mardin in southeastern Turkey. He formally converted to Islam at an official ceremony organised by the Artuklu District Mufti’s Office.
In the presence of and under the supervision of District Mufti Mr. Suleyman Baran, the South Korean national, identified as “Shayevon”, recited the Shahadah, the declaration of faith that is the fundamental testimony of Islam.
According to a statement from the Mufti’s Office, after reciting the Kalimah, he changed his name to “Abdullah”. To mark the auspicious occasion, District Mufti Mr. Suleyman Baran presented the new Muslim Abdullah with a copy of the Holy Quran as a gift.
Historic Mardin attracts international tourists
Mardin, a historic city in southeastern Anatolia near the Syrian border, has long been known as a meeting point of different civilisations and cultures. Tourists from across Turkey and around the world visit the city to see its unique stone architecture and ancient monuments. The centuries-old city has a rich cultural and social heritage.
The conversion of the tourist Abdullah took place in Mardin’s historic central district of Artuklu. The area, famous for its medieval mosques and striking limestone buildings, is included on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites.
The region is increasingly gaining recognition as one of the world’s popular destinations for cultural and faith-based tourism.
