Unveiling Knowledge: The Seoul Metropolitan Library
Explore the rich literary world at the Seoul Metropolitan Library, a historic site blending architectural beauty with cultural treasures in the heart of Seoul.
Nestled in the vibrant Jung District, the Seoul Metropolitan Library, housed in the historic Old Seoul City Hall, offers visitors a unique blend of architectural beauty and literary exploration. With over a million books and a stunning reading room, it's a haven for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall)
- 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, 04524, KR
- +822-2133-0300
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the library on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere and better access to resources.
- Check the library's schedule for free workshops and cultural events that may coincide with your visit.
- Use the library's digital resources for research if you can't find a particular book on-site.
- Don't miss the view from the upper floors; it's a great spot for photos of the surrounding area.
- Bring your own headphones if you plan to enjoy the library's multimedia resources.
Getting There
-
Subway
If you are starting from Suwon Station, take Line 1 (Blue Line) towards Seodongtan. Travel for about 30 minutes and get off at City Hall Station. Once you exit the station, follow the signs to the City Hall exit. After exiting, head left and walk straight for about 5 minutes. You will see the Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall) at 110 Sejong-daero on your right.
-
Bus
From Suwon, head to the Suwon Bus Terminal. Look for bus number 5002, which goes directly to Seoul. After approximately 1 hour, get off at the City Hall bus stop. Once you disembark, walk towards Sejong-daero. The library is located at 110 Sejong-daero, just a short 3-minute walk from the bus stop.
-
Taxi
You can take a taxi from anywhere in Suwon to the Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall). Just tell the driver to take you to '110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul'. The taxi ride will take approximately 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Discover more about Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jeonggwanheon
0.2 km
Explore Jeonggwanheon, a historical landmark in Seoul, where traditional elegance meets serene gardens, offering a glimpse into Korea's royal past.
Chungdong First Methodist Church, English Ministry
0.5 km
Explore the spiritual and architectural beauty of Chungdong First Methodist Church in Seoul's Jung District, a serene escape in a bustling city.
Jongno in Joseon Dynasty Well
0.5 km
Explore the Jongno in Joseon Dynasty Well, a historical landmark in Seoul that unveils Korea's rich heritage and offers a serene escape in the urban landscape.
Myeongdong Street
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and culinary delights of Myeongdong Street, Seoul's ultimate shopping and street food destination.
Gwanghwamun Square
0.7 km
Explore Gwanghwamun Square, a historical landmark in Seoul that beautifully merges Korea's past with its vibrant present.
Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun)
0.7 km
Discover the timeless beauty of Sungnyemun Gate, an iconic historical and cultural landmark in the heart of Seoul, South Korea.
Statue of King Sejong the Great
0.7 km
Discover the legacy of King Sejong the Great at his majestic statue in the heart of Seoul, a cultural landmark celebrating Korea's rich heritage.
Bigag
0.8 km
Explore Bigag in Jongno District, a vibrant blend of cultural heritage and modernity in the heart of Seoul, where every corner tells a story.
Jonggak Avenue of Youth
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Jonggak Avenue of Youth in Seoul, where culture, nightlife, and delicious street food come together.
Myeondong Shopping Street
0.8 km
Experience the bustling energy of Myeongdong Shopping Street, where fashion, beauty, and street food come together in the heart of Seoul.
Gongpyeong Historic Sites Museum
0.8 km
Explore the essence of Seoul's past at the Gongpyeong Historic Sites Museum, a heritage treasure showcasing the city's rich archaeological history.
Seoul Museum of History
0.8 km
Explore Seoul's captivating history at the Seoul Museum of History, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and stunning architecture.
Myeongdong Night Market
0.8 km
Experience the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere of Myeongdong Night Market, a top destination for food lovers and night owls in Seoul.
Hanwha Bulkkot-gil
0.9 km
Explore the serene Hanwha Bulkkot-gil, a charming pathway in Seoul that blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
명동차없는거리
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Myeongdong Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in the heart of vibrant Seoul.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seoul City Hall
0.1 km
Discover Seoul City Hall, an architectural masterpiece blending modern design with historical significance in the heart of South Korea's vibrant capital.
Seoul Plaza
0.1 km
Discover tranquility and culture at Seoul Plaza, a vibrant urban park in the heart of Seoul, where nature meets modernity.
Hwangudan (Wongudan) Altar
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Hwangudan Altar, a hidden gem reflecting Korea's rich cultural heritage.
Deoksugung Palace
0.2 km
Explore Deoksugung Palace, a stunning blend of history and tranquility in the heart of Seoul, showcasing Korea's royal past and beautiful architecture.
Deoksugung Doldamgil (Stone-wall Road)
0.3 km
Explore the historical charm of Deoksugung Doldamgil, a scenic stone-wall road in Seoul, rich in culture and breathtaking views.
Seoul City Hall Seosomun Annex Building 1
0.3 km
Discover the modern architectural brilliance of Seoul City Hall Seosomun Annex, a cultural hub in the heart of South Korea's vibrant capital.
Seoul City Tour Bus
0.3 km
Discover Seoul's rich history and vibrant culture aboard the City Tour Bus, a convenient way to explore the capital's top attractions.
Jeongdong Observatory
0.3 km
Discover Seoul's skyline from Jeongdong Observatory, where breathtaking views and rich history come together for an unforgettable experience.
Seokjojeon (Korean Empire History Museum)
0.3 km
Explore the legacy of the Korean Empire at Seokjojeon, a historical landmark showcasing Korea's rich imperial history in the heart of Seoul.
Cheonggye Plaza
0.3 km
Explore Cheonggye Plaza, a serene urban oasis in Seoul, where nature meets culture in a vibrant city landscape.
Cheonggyecheon
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Cheonggyecheon, a tranquil urban park in Seoul, where nature meets culture in a stunning waterfront setting.
Cheonggyecheon Stream
0.3 km
Experience the serenity of Cheonggyecheon Stream, an urban oasis in Seoul where nature meets culture amidst a bustling city.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Deoksugung
0.4 km
Explore Korea's vibrant contemporary art scene at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Deoksugung in Seoul.
Dondeokjeon Hall
0.4 km
Explore Dondeokjeon Hall - A stunning historical landmark in Seoul showcasing Korea's royal heritage and exquisite architecture.
Pushkin Plaza
0.4 km
Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Pushkin Plaza in Seoul, where literature and art come together in a vibrant and inspiring setting.
Essential places to dine
MUGUNGHWA
0.3 km
Experience the best of traditional Korean cuisine at Mugunghwa, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views in Seoul.
Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul
0.3 km
Savor exquisite haute French cuisine at Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views in the heart of Korea's vibrant capital.
Akira Back
0.5 km
Experience culinary artistry at Akira Back in Seoul – where Canadian flavors meet Korean inspirations in a fine dining setting.
The Market Kitchen
0.5 km
Explore culinary excellence at The Market Kitchen in Seoul with an expansive buffet featuring global flavors and local specialties.
Din Tai Fung Myeongdong
0.6 km
Experience authentic Taiwanese cuisine at Din Tai Fung Myeongdong, famous for its delectable dumplings and vibrant atmosphere in Seoul's bustling district.
Mano di Chef
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mano di Chef in Seoul's vibrant Myeong-dong district - where every meal is a celebration.
Wangbijib Myeongdong Center store
0.7 km
Experience authentic Korean BBQ at Wangbijib Myeongdong Center - where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Seoul.
Yuktongryeong Myeongdong Main
0.7 km
Experience authentic Korean BBQ at Yuktongryeong Myeongdong Main—where flavors come alive and dining becomes an adventure.
Gurkha Indian Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Gurkha Indian Restaurant in Seoul—where every dish tells a story of rich flavors.
Urban Garden
0.8 km
Discover Urban Garden in Seoul – where authentic Italian flavors meet contemporary elegance in a vibrant atmosphere.
Myeongdong Kyoja Main Restaurant
0.8 km
Savor authentic handmade kalguksu noodles and dumplings at Myeongdong Kyoja Main Restaurant in Seoul's vibrant Myeongdong district.
Myeongdong Restaurant The Sic-ddang
0.8 km
Experience authentic Korean cuisine at The Sic-ddang in Myeongdong – a must-visit for food lovers exploring Seoul's vibrant food scene.
Italian Bistro Bonappetit
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Italy at Bonappetit in Seoul—where authentic flavors meet modern dining in an inviting atmosphere.
Wangbijip Myeongdong Main store
0.9 km
Experience authentic Korean BBQ at Wangbijip Myeongdong - indulge in premium meats and traditional flavors in the heart of Seoul.
Tteok Salon Insadong
0.9 km
Experience authentic Korean rice cakes at Tteok Salon Insadong - a culinary gem in Seoul's historic Insadong district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sogong underground Shop #34 (Korean Ginseng Corp)
0.3 km
Explore Sogong Underground Shop #34 for authentic Korean ginseng products, offering health benefits and cultural insights in the heart of Seoul.
e-바다몰
0.4 km
Discover unique home goods and essentials at e-바다몰, where quality meets style for your living spaces.
LOTTE DUTY FREE Main Store
0.4 km
Explore the luxurious offerings of LOTTE DUTY FREE Main Store in Seoul, where you can enjoy tax-free shopping on top brands and unique souvenirs.
LOTTE Department Store Main Store
0.4 km
Discover an extraordinary shopping experience at LOTTE Department Store Main Store, where luxury brands and local treasures await in the heart of Seoul.
Piaget Boutique Seoul - Lotte Myeong-dong DF
0.4 km
Discover the luxury of Piaget Boutique in Myeong-dong, where exquisite jewelry and fine watches await in a stunning shopping destination.
K CHARACTER SHOP
0.7 km
Discover the magic of K-Pop at K Character Shop in Seoul, where unique gifts and memorabilia await every fan and visitor alike.
Shinsegae Department Store Main Store
0.7 km
Discover luxury, variety, and culinary delights at Shinsegae Department Store, Seoul's premier shopping destination.
Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center
0.7 km
Discover the Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center, Seoul's bustling hub for fashion, electronics, and delightful Korean snacks in a clean and vibrant atmosphere.
Woo Jeung Nacre lacquer Ware Co. (2-nd floor)
0.7 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Korean nacre lacquerware at Woo Jeung Nacre Lacquer Ware Co., a gem in Seoul's Jung District.
Olive Young Myeongdong Town
0.7 km
Discover an extensive range of beauty and skincare products at Olive Young Myeongdong Town, a must-visit destination for every beauty enthusiast in Seoul.
Shinsegae Duty Free Myeongdong
0.7 km
Discover luxury shopping at Shinsegae Duty Free Myeongdong, where exclusive brands and unbeatable prices await in the heart of Seoul.
Piaget Boutique Seoul - Shinsegae Myeong-dong DF
0.7 km
Experience luxury shopping at Piaget Boutique in Myeong-dong, Seoul, where exquisite jewelry and fine watches await discerning travelers.
Butter Shop
0.7 km
Explore the Butter Shop in Myeongdong, Seoul, a unique home goods store filled with stylish decor and exquisite kitchenware.
Seoul shop
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate K-Pop gift shop in Seoul, offering unique merchandise and exclusive collectibles for every fan.
Brand Market clothing shop
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Brand Market in Myeong-dong, Seoul's premier clothing store for trendy apparel and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pierres Bar
0.3 km
Experience the luxury of Pierres Bar in Seoul, where exquisite cocktails meet breathtaking skyline views in an elegant setting.
The Drawing Room
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of The Drawing Room, a premier cocktail bar at Lotte Hotel, where exquisite drinks and a sophisticated atmosphere await.
Ghiwon22
0.4 km
Discover Ghiwon22: A chic cocktail bar in Myeong-dong, blending local Korean flavors with innovative drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
I Love Pub
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at I Love Pub in Jung-gu, Seoul, where friendly service meets a lively atmosphere and delicious drinks.
찰스 H Charles H.
0.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of elegance and modernity at Charles H. in Seoul, a sophisticated bar and dining experience.
Mexx myeongdongjeom
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Seoul at Mexx Myeongdongjeom, where stylish ambiance meets an extensive drink menu in the heart of Myeongdong.
W XYZ Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at W XYZ Bar in Seoul, where stylish cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
MOWa
0.7 km
Discover MOWa: A stylish wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Seoul, offering exquisite cuisine and an exceptional wine selection for every palate.
pungak 명동풍악 bar pub wine music 바 위스키 와인
0.7 km
Discover the lively Pungak Bar in Myeongdong, where extraordinary cocktails meet electrifying live music for a night to remember.
Marque d'Amour
0.7 km
Experience Seoul's nightlife at Marque d'Amour, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
The Flair Bar
0.8 km
Discover The Flair Bar in Seoul - a lively nightlife destination offering innovative cocktails, a vibrant atmosphere, and a taste of local culture.
OB's Cabin
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Seoul at OB's Cabin, a live music bar where local talent shines in an intimate setting.
마당쇠호프
0.8 km
Discover the local charm of Seoul at 마당쇠호프, a popular bar in Insa-dong offering delicious drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere.
BOUND BAR
0.8 km
Discover Bound Bar in Myeongdong, Seoul's premier cocktail destination offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant nightlife experience.
Jongnoilbeonzi
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Jongnoilbeonzi, a perfect bar to unwind in the heart of Seoul's cultural district, Insa-dong.
