If you’ve been looking for places to visit in Seoul – actually, even if you haven’t, you would have most certainly seen photos of COEX Starfield Library before.
Located right smack in Gangnam, this impressive library has probably appeared on your Instagram and Pinterest at some point in time.
What to do and see at COEX Starfield Library
As the name suggests, Starfield Library is located in the center of COEX Mall. If you’re done exploring COEX Aquarium, you can come here to take a break among the books.
Being the centerpiece of the shopping mall means that Starfield Library is always crowded. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find a good seat as everyone is keen to rest here.
Surprisingly, there are tons of locals really getting their reading and work done here. I don’t know how they can concentrate, but they certainly can make it happen!
There are escalators going up to the second level and (sort of) brushing past the books on the taller shelves.
However, based on personal experience, there’s close to no way you can reach the ones on top. Yes, not even if you’re on the escalator.
If you’re curious as to the titles at the top or really want to access them for whatever reason, you can actually approach the staff on hand for help. I’ve never done it nor seen any one actually ask, but good to know that option is open!
On a more serious note, if you take the time to explore the books in this library, you’ll realise that there is quite a wide selection in various genres such as humanities, economics, hobbies etc. Whole sections of the library are even said to be dedicated to foreign books and famous authors!
If trying to grab a physical book is too arduous, you can actually use some of the iPads to read e-books instead.
Close to 600 magazines, domestic and foreign, are available for any visitor to browse. However, do note that you won’t be able to borrow and check out any of the books if you’re a tourist!
Is COEX Starfield Library worth visting?
On all my trips to this library, I’ve admittedly never done any serious reading. It’s way too crowded and there’s close to no way I can actually find a book that I want to read.
COEX Starfield Library is, in my opinion, best left as a photography spot by tourists.
That being said, I did find out that the library does host a plethora of book-related events, such as meeting with authors, book talks, poetry reading, lectures, and even book concerts. However, I never had the chance to attend any – but hopefully you do!
DIRECTIONS
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam District, Yeongdong-daero, 513 스타필드 코엑스몰 B1
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