Travel
Seoul Outdoor Library reopens Sept. 5 with expanded global programs
Haps Magazine Korea
August 24, 2025
(Photo by Seoul Metropolitan Government / Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
Seoul Outdoor Library, which includes Reading Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Book Yard, and Reading Stream, will reopen on September 5 after its summer break, operating through November 2.
From September, it will welcome visitors in the evening (4 pm–10 pm), before shifting to daytime hours (11 am–6 pm) in late October.
This fall, the library strengthens its global identity as a “World Citizens’ Outdoor Library” with cultural exchange programs in partnership with embassies and cultural centers from Ireland, Peru, China, Italy, and India.
Services for foreign visitors will also expand, with over 2,000 new foreign-language books and translated Korean literature titles, including Love in the Big City, The Old Woman with the Knife, and Almond.
Special soundtracks featuring natural sounds from Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun, and Cheonggyecheon have also been developed to enrich the reading experience. Ahead of reopening, a “Summer Night Library” pop-up will run from August 22–24, featuring stargazing, SF film screenings, and cello ensemble performances.
More information is available on the official site seouloutdoorlibrary.kr and Instagram channels (@seouloutdoorlibrary.s, @seouloutdoorlibrary.g, @seouloutdoorlibrary.c).