Early Life & Career Beginnings
Daud Kim, born Kim Jae-han (formerly known as Jay Kim), hails from South Korea. He came from a Catholic family and later initially identified with Christianity (StarsUnfolded, IMDb).
He studied music composition at Dankook University and served in the Republic of Korea Army Band under the Capital Defense Command during his mandatory military service (2013–2015) (StarsUnfolded, IMDb). Around 2017, he made his debut as a jazz singer and launched his YouTube journey in August 2013 under the channel “JaehanKim66,” featuring covers of popular songs and culturally rich stuff (StarsUnfolded, YouTube).
Conversion to Islam
On September 25, 2019, he publicly embraced Islam and adopted the name Daud Kim, marking a profound turning point in his life (Wikitubia, Salams, Korea Herald). He described this change as answering the deeper questions of existence—his mission, existence, and destination after life (Salams, Wikitubia).
On YouTube and other platforms, he candidly shared his internal struggles, his newfound peace, and his journey of faith—often touching on themes of identity, conversion, and cultural intersections (YouTube).
Digital Influence & Islamic Outreach
With a significant online presence, Daud Kim surmounted millions of followers across YouTube and Instagram—reports estimate over 5 to 6 million subscribers and more than 4 million followers on Instagram (Famous Birthdays, IMDb, YouTube).
His content, rich in cultural and religious discourse, ranges from social experiments in South Korea—like public prayer and halal food—to heartfelt travel vlogs in Muslim-majority countries (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran) that showcase Islamic practices and urban life (YouTube, IMDb).
Mosque Projects & Controversies
Since converting, Daud aspired to build mosques in his home country. He initiated fundraising campaigns aimed at establishing mosques in Daegu and later Incheon (Wikitubia, India Today, Deccan Herald, Instagram, YouTube).
However, these noble intentions were marred by local opposition and allegations of fraud. In both cities, residents voiced concern over property devaluation, and administrative setbacks—including land contract cancellations—derailed the projects (India Today, Deccan Herald).
Beyond logistical challenges, Daud faced accusations of misusing public donations for personal gain. Skeptics pointed out unauthorized private accounts being used to collect funds, prompting widespread scrutiny (India Today, Deccan Herald, Wikitubia). While some reports suggest that at least one mosque project was completed in 2024, the details remain murky (Wikitubia).
Personal Life & Additional Controversies
His personal life, too, has been subject to public attention:
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Marriage & Divorce: Daud Kim married Mia, who also converted to Islam. Reports indicate that their marriage ended in divorce in 2024, with Mia alleging abuse (Wikitubia, India Today).
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Allegations of Sexual Assault: In August 2020, a woman publicly accused Daud Kim of attempted sexual assault. She shared a TikTok video that depicted him inappropriately, alleging he committed the offense under the influence of alcohol (Korea Herald, Threads). Daud posted apology videos, but skepticism and blowback followed, as critics questioned the sincerity and timing (YouTube, Wikitubia).
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Online Speculation & Harassment: On platforms like Reddit, users harshly criticized Daud, accusing him of exploiting the Muslim community and sharing unsavory personal narratives—careerism, abuse, and sexual misconduct among them (Reddit).
Recent Updates
As of early 2025, his mosque dreams appear to have taken physical form—his Instagram shows footage saying "Alhamdulillah, I finally did it—With your help, I made a home of Allah", hinting at tangible progress or completion of a mosque project (Instagram, TikTok).
Top Interesting Facts
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Musical Roots: He served in South Korea’s army band and studied composition at a university level before his conversion journey began (StarsUnfolded, IMDb).
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YouTube Rise: His early content featured music covers, cultural exchanges, and vlogs around religious transformation. One popular video: “Do Koreans Help Muslims? – Hijab vs No Hijab” garnered over 19 million views (YouTube).
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Global Muslim Vlogger: He became widely known for showcasing Muslim cultures across nations including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Iran (YouTube).
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Controversial Mosque Builder: His efforts to build mosques in Daegu and Incheon sparked both support and significant local resistance (India Today, Deccan Herald).
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Personal Turmoil: His personal life witnessed significant controversies, with allegations involving sexual assault and domestic issues surfacing publicly (Korea Herald, Reddit).
FAQs About Daud Kim
Q1: What is Daud Kim’s birth name?
A: He was born Kim Jae-han, formerly performed as “Jay Kim,” and converted to Islam, becoming Daud Kim in 2019 (StarsUnfolded, Salams).
Q2: When and why did he convert to Islam?
A: Daud publicly embraced Islam in September 2019, citing it as the faith that answered life’s existential questions (Wikitubia, Salams).
Q3: How big is his online presence?
A: Reports estimate 5–6 million YouTube subscribers and over 4 million Instagram followers. He's known for his vlogging focused on Islam and cultural interactions (Famous Birthdays, YouTube, IMDb).
Q4: What controversies has he been involved in?
A: He faced serious accusations including:
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Sexual assault claims from August 2020 via TikTok (Korea Herald, Threads).
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Allegations of misusing donations for mosque construction, rejection by locals, and claims of fraud (India Today, Deccan Herald, Wikitubia).
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Personal allegations from an ex-wife and online criticism of his moral character (India Today, Reddit, Wikitubia).
Q5: Did he manage to build a mosque?
A: Despite early resistance and setbacks, recent social media suggests a mosque has been completed—with Daud stating, “Alhamdulillah, I finally did it” (Instagram, TikTok). Independent verification is pending.
Q6: What genres did he work in before?
A: Daud Kim started in the jazz music field and released numerous music covers on YouTube. His early inspirations and uploads reflected a keen musical talent (StarsUnfolded, YouTube).
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