A Trip Through History and Books at Seoul Metropolitan Library (Old Seoul City Hall)
#cityplaybook
Right in the middle of Seoul, at 110 Sejong-daero, Jung District, you'll find the Seoul Metropolitan Library. It's a great example of Seoul's long history and its lively interest in learning. This library is in the beautiful old building that used to be Seoul City Hall, making it much more than just a place to read. It's a cool mix of old architecture and useful public services.
When you walk into the library, you'll immediately notice how grand the building is. The main hall, with its very high ceilings and impressive design, gives you a hint of its past as the city's main office. It's a truly special feeling to look at books inside walls that saw important moments in Seoul's history, going all the way back to when it was first built in 1926.
Besides being historically interesting, the library is a great spot for anyone who loves to learn. It has a huge collection of materials all about Seoul itself – from its past and culture to city planning and environmental topics. For people visiting from other countries, the 4th floor is especially good, with lots of books in different languages for all kinds of interests.
What really makes the Seoul Metropolitan Library special, more than a regular library, is how it plays a big part in the city's cultural scene. Seoul Plaza, right in front of the library, often turns into a lively spot for different events, like the "Seoul Outdoor Library" festival. Imagine relaxing on comfy chairs and under tents, reading a book, while live music plays – it's a truly lovely city experience.
If you're interested in the building's past, the 3rd and 5th floors have interesting displays that show how it changed from City Hall to a library. You can see exhibitions about its history, how it was built, and old things that were kept. The garden on the roof of the 5th floor, called "HaneulTteul," is not only a quiet place to relax but also gives you great views of the city all around, including famous landmarks.
So, whether you love books, history, or just want a peaceful and brain-stimulating break in the busy city, the Seoul Metropolitan Library is a must-visit. Its mix of historical importance, many books, and fun cultural programs makes it a truly amazing place. And since it's easy to get to from City Hall Station, it's a convenient and worthwhile stop on any trip to Seoul.
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