A South Korean tourist has embraced Islam after being deeply moved by the rich history and cultural harmony he encountered while visiting Mardin, an ancient city in southeastern Turkey.
A Journey That Led to Faith
The tourist, identified only as Shaevn, reportedly visited Mardin recently, as reported by Daily Sabah on Thursday (September 17, 2026). During his trip, he was captivated by the city’s deep cultural and religious heritage, an experience that ultimately led him to convert.
Mardin holds a significant place in Islamic history, home to architectural heritage dating back to the 7th century. What sets the city apart, however, isn’t just its ancient structures, but the remarkable religious harmony that has defined it for generations.
A City Built on Coexistence
Once known as a fortress city during the Ottoman era, Mardin has long been celebrated for its religious tolerance. Muslims, Syriac Christians (Assyrians), and other faith communities have lived side by side for centuries without conflict.
Local authorities have historically protected the city’s ancient churches, creating a unique skyline where mosque minarets stand alongside church bell towers in quiet harmony.
From Admiration to Conversion
Moved by what he experienced, Shaevn made the decision to convert to Islam during his stay. Local officials welcomed his decision warmly, and a formal ceremony was held at the Artuklu District Mufti’s Office, led by District Mufti Süleyman Baran. A mufti is an Islamic scholar authorized to issue religious rulings, or fatwas.
According to a statement from the mufti’s office, the tourist decided to change his faith while vacationing in Mardin, prompting local authorities to organize the ceremony.
After reciting the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, Shaevn adopted the name Abdullah. Mufti Baran then gifted him a copy of the Quran to mark the occasion.
Part of a Growing Trend
Shaevn’s conversion reflects a broader trend of foreign tourists embracing Islam while visiting Turkey. Many, like him, cite the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage as a major influence on their spiritual journey.
