When you think of libraries in Seoul, you probably think of the Seoul Library in front of City Hall or the Gwanghwamun Book Yard, which you can only enjoy from spring to fall, but there are many other libraries throughout the city that are worth a visit. Here are six libraries in Seoul that you might not have realized existed, libraries where time seems to slow down when you’re inside, libraries where you can spend all day in contemplation, and libraries where you can spend time with children.
1. Son Ki-jeong Cultural Library
Located in Jungnim-dong, behind Seoul Station, the Son Ki-jung Cultural Library was renovated and reopened in 2021. The red brick and water garden welcomes you to the outside space and the curved bookshelves that remind you of the thought circuit of reading.
📍101-3 Songijeong-ro, Jung-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2. Jeongdok Library
The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education’s Jungdok Library is located on a hill in Bukchon, a lively neighborhood with narrow alleys. It is a fun place to walk to and from the plaza, which changes its face every season with cherry blossoms, greenery, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery.
📍48, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu
🗓️ Closed on the first and third Wednesday of every month, see link for opening hours
3. Odong Forest Library
Odong Forest Library, winner of the 42nd Seoul Architecture Awards, resembles a forest shelter. The building’s multi-layered structure is designed to stimulate children’s imagination, creativity, and enjoyment.
📍48, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
4. Namsan Library
The Namsan Library of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education is also beautiful in all seasons, but it is especially famous for its fall foliage. The outdoor reading area on the second floor, facing Namsan Mountain and with the sky as a roof, offers a spectacular view. Surrounded by fall foliage, you can fatten up your brain and heart while reading a book.
📍109 Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
5. War Memorial Library
The KWAC Library at the Yongsan War Memorial provides various perspectives on war history, including the Korean War. It is loved not only for its materials but also for its space, with low bookshelves and skylights facing Namsan Mountain adding depth to the open space.
📍29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
6. Cheongwoon Literature Library
A hanok library, the Cheongwoon Literature Library specializes in literature. It doesn’t boast a vast collection like other public libraries, but you’ll be mesmerized by the atmospheric space and the waterfall, which is another of the library’s specialties.
📍40, Jahamun-ro 36-gil, Jongno-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays / 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends
7. Seoul Museum of Art Archive
The Seoul Museum of Art Archive is a museum that combines history and art. Although it is named as an art museum, there is a space where you can browse design books. It is a white-toned space that is filled with natural light.
📍40, Jahamun-ro 36-gil, Jongno-gu
🗓️ Closed Mondays, weekdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. / weekends 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.