A Book Lover's Guide to South Korea

Asia has some amazing literary destinations, but South Korea stands out like nowhere else. From book-themed hotels with a French flair to public libraries that make a statement, come and explore South Korea’s reading culture with us.

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L'Escape Hotel

Yeah, Seoul's libraries are fun to look at, but a night stay in L'Escape Hotel in the thick of Myeong-dong’s buzz should be right at the top of every bibliophile's bucket list. This Parisian-inspired boutique hotel stands out for its sophisticated library lounge, reminiscent of 19th-century French salons, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon reading session. As night falls at L’Escape Hotel, the library comes alive with live guitar sessions.

Address: 67 Toegye-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7AM - 10PM

Jibokjae in Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace in the Jongno district may get all the attention for its royal history, but a little literary secret lies behind its walls. Built back in 1891, the two-story Jibokjae Library stands within the palace grounds and features a rare Chinese architectural style commissioned by King Gojong.

These days, it’s still a go-to for curious bookworms who love a good rare collection, as it houses around 1,700 volumes related to Joseon history and the royal family.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, 종로1.2.3.4가동 Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10AM - 4PM
- Month of July & August: Closed

Veranda Book Cafe

Once you’ve had a look through Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Jibokjae Library, you can swing by another one of the Jongno district’s reading hubs: Veranda Book Cafe. What really makes this pick shine is that it's set within a beautifully restored Hanok, offering a curated reading experience amid traditional Korean architecture.

There’s quite an artsy vibe to Veranda Book Cafe: you’ve got a handwritten menu written entirely in Korean, well-organized aesthetic wooden bookcases filled with books, and little posters dotted throughout. And let’s not forget the phenomenal coffee they serve.

Address: 9-4 Sajik-ro 10-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:30AM - 10PM
- Sunday: 11AM - 7PM

Starfield Library COEX

The shopping is nothing short of brilliant at Gangnam's COEX Mall, but the Starfield Library in the middle is what really wows. Multi-layered cylindrical bookcases overlook the mall while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the expansive space with natural light. On the ground floor, standalone tables display a curated selection of popular titles.

Whether you're into science, economics, or something in between, there's a read for you. Not only that, they also stock a wide range of international books, as well as just under 600 magazines from South Korea and abroad.

Address: South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam District, Yeongdong-daero, 513 스타필드 코엑스몰 B1
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Sunday: 10:30AM - 10PM

Starfield Suwon Library

It’s not just the mighty South Korean capital that has its own Starfield Library; there’s also one in the city of Suwon. While Seoul’s branch is truly stunning, this one brings its own unique brilliance with floating box-like book towers and elevated balconies brimming with titles visitors can look out over.

Plenty of seating areas are scattered throughout the facility, with designated desks for those who plan to spend extended time there. Although it spans four levels, it can get crowded, especially on weekends, when many people flock from Seoul to escape big city life, so try to arrive early to fully relished it.

Address: South Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Jangan-gu, Suseong-ro, 175 스타필드 수원 4F~7F
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Sunday: 10AM - 10PM

Forest of Wisdom

Paju Book City spoils readers for choice with all its literary offerings, but one of them you don't want to miss is the Forest of Wisdom. Picture a big, open public book space where wood-paneled shelves stretch up the walls in a sharp, square pattern.

The entire inventory of 200,000 covers has been donated by Korean scholars and intellectuals, covering a wide range of topics, from history and philosophy to many others. You'll also find a dedicated selection for kids, too.

Address: 145 Hoedong-gil, Gyoha-dong, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9AM - 8PM

Hannae Forest of Wisdom

Community is the primary focus at Hannae Forest of Wisdom in Nowon-gu, Seoul. What was once a former guard post has been creatively transformed into an architectural marvel housing countless volumes, featuring house-like book rooms with minimalist seating areas and pitched wooden ceilings.

Cozy and quiet, Hannae Forest of Wisdom provides local residents with a space to flip through pages without distractions and also serves as an after-school education center.

Address: 86 Madeul-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday: 10AM - 6PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 9AM - 6PM
- Saturday: 9AM - 5PM
- Sunday: Closed

CGV Cinelibrary

Books meet the big screen at Seoul's CGV Cinelibrary. Situated within CGV Apgujeong, this isn’t your typical library; the focus here is on film-related books and materials, all housed in a cinema-themed building with a big screen and seating positioned as reading desks rather than couches for watching movies.

As the first cinelibrary to open its doors in South Korea, it has amassed an impressive collection of over 10,000 titles covering your favorite films.

Address: 123 Toegye-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 12PM - 9PM

Songpa Book Museum

If you happen to be interested in Seoul's reading culture, the Songpa Book Museum is well worth a visit. It stands as the nation’s first public museum dedicated to books devoted to all things literature, including unique covers, impressive exhibitions, and engaging story-centered lectures.

A slew of interesting facilities are available throughout the museum, including a dedicated section where you can design your very own book. The Open Studio is also a must, as you can take specialized tours of the complex's archive there. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s even a bookbinding section where you can see what really goes into making a cover.

Address: 77 Songpa-daero 37-gil, Songpa District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10AM - 6PM

Book Park Lounge

Occupying the second and third levels of Yongsan's Blue Square, Book Park Lounge blends all aspects of the publishing world under one roof. A vast collection with a particular focus on science and art is spread out across vertical bookcases in the central gallery, with 50 tables and 200 seats distributed across the complex.

The range of titles is just the start at Book Park Lounge. They also have cafés serving all sorts of goodies on every level, along with lecture halls and seminar rooms for different exhibits. Don’t keep your exploration inside; there’s a fabulous exhibit outside that’s well worth checking out.

Address: South Korea, Seoul, Yongsan District, Itaewon-ro, 294, Blue Square, 3층
Opening hours:
‍- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 11:30AM - 9PM

Check Grow Book Cafe

You won't find much better views of the Han River than at Check Grow Book Cafe in Mapo-gu. Their nine-level facility pulls out all the stops with its fresh wooden interiors, expansive windows, and creative concept, where each floor features a different theme, offering a unique experience on every level.

Unlike many book cafes, where there's an unwritten rule that you can stay as long as you like after purchasing something, this one has a 3-hour limit for all paying customers. This timeframe allows for a relaxed visit to enjoy the facilities, though those intending to work may want to explore other options.

Address: 31 Mapo-daero 4da-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Sunday: 9:30AM - 9:30PM

Dae-o Bookstore

Got a soft spot for secondhand bookstores? Say hello to the oldest one in Seoul, Dae-o Bookstore, which has been operating since 1951. The owners have preserved the space over the years and turned it into a café while still retaining its bookish charm. Upon entering, you'll immediately get that old-world Korean feel from the traditionally restored house as soft tunes play in the background.

Paying customers who buy something from the café are allowed to enter freely, but if you want to come inside just for a peek, you'll need to purchase a small souvenir for a small fee of KRW 3,000.

Address: 55 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Sunday: 12PM - 8PM

Chaekbonyang

Chaekbonyang is a snug, cat-themed independent bookstore located in a traditional Hanok building in Seongbuk-dong. Formerly the owner's creative space, it was converted into a shop in 2020, selling books about feline friends as well as a few titles about dogs. Beyond the printed materials, you’ll spot some small sculptures and other thoughtful additions for sale.

Entering Chaekbonyang is part of the fun. Finding the entrance can be a bit tricky; it’s down a tiny alley, and then you need to ring the buzzer out front and allow the gate to swing open so as not to startle the two resident kitties.

Address: 21 Seongbuk-ro 10ga-gil, Seongbuk-dong, Seongbuk District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday to Sunday: 1PM - 7PM

Jinbu Books Studio

Looking for your next artsy or literary read? Jinbu Books Studio’s got you covered with a comfortable reading lounge filled with fresh lighting, delicious coffee, and a vibrant sound system. Nestled close by to the lush Gomori Lake Park reservoir in Pocheon, it's a bit of a hidden gem just waiting to be uncovered.

One thing that gives this spot its edge is that they host reading sessions and book talks every month, which are open to everyone. Additionally, they have space available to rent for anyone interested in using it for filming or reading groups.

Address: South Korea, Seoul, Mapo-gu, Jandari-ro, 112 2층
Opening hours:
‍- Monday to Sunday: 11AM - 7PM

Cartoon Plus Cafe

Twenty-four-hour cafes in Seoul are few and far between, but Cartoon Plus Cafe in Hongdae is the exception. It's everything you’d imagine a solid manhwa cafe to be: thousands of comics for sale, private reading spaces, multimedia zones, and self-service snacks available around the clock.

As if the fantastic facilities weren't enough, Cartoon Plus Cafe also lets customers spend a full day/night in their complex for an additional fee, so don't forget your sleeping bag.

Address: 29 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 24/7

The Forest Choso Chaekbang

As you can see by now, Seoul has book cafes pretty much in all corners of the city, and there's even one on Inwangsan Mountain called the Forest Choso Chaekbang. Yes, it's as awesome as it sounds: think panoramic views of the Seoul skyline, eco-themed books, and a serene atmosphere within a repurposed guard post.

Past visitors have raved about their lineup, which leans into environmental topics, all of which can be enjoyed with one of their signature beverages from the coffee menu.

Address: 172 Inwangsan-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8AM - 10PM

Manhole Coffee Western

Step into the Wild West in Seoul’s Yeongdeungpo district at Manhole Coffee Western. You’d be forgiven for thinking you're starring in a cowboy movie here, thanks to the saloon-style interiors, toasty fireplace, and wooden furnishings draped in a U.S. flag.

Frequently visited by students and professionals for its work-friendly environment, there’s plenty of seating across the multi-floor space. All coffees here are expertly brewed, especially their signature cream options that are sure to hit the spot.

Address: 212번지 Dangsan-dong 1(il)-ga, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 11AM - 10PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 12PM - 10PM

Arc N Book Seoul (Lotte Mall)

Perched on the 4th floor of Lotte Mall, Arc N Book Seoul is a stylish bookstore and cultural space you may recognize for its spectacularly shaped book tunnel with LED lights. Covers line both sides, forming a striking entrance that draws you in. Be aware that while the layout of the place is impressive, it can make searching for titles a little trickier, so have some patience.

But the entryway is just the beginning. Inside, you'll be treated to a curated selection of books and lifestyle goods, as well as a cafe that serves teas, coffees, and desserts.

Address: 4th Floor, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:30AM - 10PM

Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall)

The capital's Old City Hall has served as the Seoul Metropolitan Library in the heart of the city since 2012. A truly one-of-a-kind setting, it exemplifies 20th-century architecture with flawless neoclassical elements and a richly detailed, ornate facade.

Its array of titles has grown to around 570,000, all of which are carefully stacked on shelves that stretch up to 5 meters in height. For a different perspective on the library, consider joining the free Tong Tong Seoul City Walking Tour, which takes you through it with a local guide.

Address: 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 9AM - 9PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9AM - 6PM

Cheongun Literature Library

At the foothills of Inwangsan Mountain sits a tranquil public library, Cheongun Literature Library. As the first Hanok-inspired library in Jongno-gu, its design speaks for itself, with handmade tiles on the roof and piles of books arranged in true Hanok fashion while retaining a certain level of modern allure.

Much of the collection here revolves around Korean literature. A series of serene reading rooms are scattered throughout the facility, where visitors can gather and take in scenic views of the lush greenery and settlements peeking out over the dense forests.

Address: 40 Jahamun-ro 36-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 9AM - 9PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9AM - 7PM

Bosu Book Street

Down south in Busan's Jung District, an entire alleyway known as Bosu Book Street is dotted with open-front bookshops. Piles upon piles of new and used books line the storefronts alongside a few quaint cafes, making the perfect setting for some immersive literary exploration.

Bosu Book Street all started during the Korean War when some evacuees from North Korea began selling a few old books. Soon, others followed suit, and before long, it became the treasure throve of covers that it is today.

Address: Bosu-dong 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10AM - 8:30PM

Itaewon Foreign Bookstore

Given that many of Seoul's bookstores sell titles primarily in Korean, it can be a nightmare if you don't speak the language. Thankfully, you always have the secondhand English-language Itaewon Foreign Bookstore to fall back on. It's frequented by expats and tourists alike, providing an eclectic selection that you won't be able to resist.

Books line every inch from the ground up, which makes it a delight to look at. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful; they can ease any intimidation you might feel from the hefty layout and offer recommendations on what to buy. Plus, the prices are easy on the wallet.

Address: South Korea, Seoul, Yongsan District, Noksapyeong-daero, 208 1 층
Opening hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday to Sunday: 11AM - 7:30PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 2PM - 7:30PM

Cafe Comma Hapjeong

As if famed publisher Munhak Dongne's work wasn't impressive enough, they've also branched into the book cafe scene and opened their own beautiful six-story space in the Mapo District. Volume numbers here are in the thousands, covering all kinds of subjects that will pique your interest.

The exterior is equally as impressive, as each section is distinguished by blocks. The two bottom floors follow six sections, while each floor above gradually cuts a block as it rises, creating a visual masterpiece.

Address: 49 Poeun-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10AM - 10PM

Inwangsan Shelter in the Woods

Yet again, Seoul delivers another marvelous literary environment: the Inwangsan Shelter in the Woods on the city's Inwangsan Mountain. Like many similar locations, it was once an old guard post, but it has now evolved into a minimalist retreat for quiet reading sessions amidst pristine nature.

The journey to reach this place is an adventure in itself, as you'll have to tackle around 40 minutes of rugged trails. But the reward at the top is a serene glass-built cabin with like-minded book lovers, far from the hustle of places like Gangnam.

Address: 산4-36 Cheongun-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10AM - 5PM

Salon de Chogo

Ever visited a literary bar? Now's your chance at Salon de Chogo in Seoul's Hapjeong neighborhood. By day, people come to flip through pages in a peaceful atmosphere, while at night, things take a turn as it becomes a buzzing space for discussions and events.

On the menu, you'll find plenty of options to sip with your books, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, like cocktails, wines, soft drinks, and some scrumptious dishes.

Address: South Korea, Seoul, Mapo-gu, Hapjeong-dong, Dongmak-ro 2-gil, 30 지하 101
Opening hours:
- Wednesday: Closed
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 5PM - 12AM
- Saturday and Sunday: 4PM - 12 AM

Paju Book City

We've looked at book-focused cafes, hotels, and even streets, but South Korea even has a whole locality in honor of covers in Gyoha-eup, the Paju Book City. This cultural complex is entirely devoted to the creation, publication, merchandising, and sale of Korean books, but even if you don't understand the language, it's a must-visit.

Everything in this area is related to books: one minute, you're admiring the humongous collection belonging to the Forest of Wisdom, and the next, you're sipping a cappuccino in front of one of the many book-focused coffee shops.

Address: 145 Hoedong-gil, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10AM - 12PM