How to Visit the Starfield Library, Gangnam
Last Updated on 23rd February 2025 by Sophie Nadeau
This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy and disclosure for more information.
One of the most breathtaking and futuristic libraries you’ll ever see is tucked away in the heart of South Korea’s huge underground shopping mall. Truly a literary haven, the library is dominated by its impressive 13-meter-high bookshelves and is home to over 50,000 books.
Although vast, Starfield Library has a cosy feel to it, gently lit and filled with studious visitors absorbed by their work. Here’s an insider’s guide on how to visit Starfield Library!
A history of Starfield Library
The history of the library begins with the mall. Starfield COEX was initially designed and developed by the chain Shinsegae Property, which has created a chain of mega malls. Construction of Starfield began in 1997 and took three years to complete, opening its doors in 2000.
In 2012, plans for major renovations of the mall were announced and said to be completed by 2014. With the help of designer, Gensler, who had the theme “Unfolding Sky” in mind, emphasising a seamless flow of open space between the ground and underground.
However, it wasn’t until 2017 that Starfield Library, 별마당도서관, was added to the mall. Set over two floors, the upper basement level and the first floor. The design is open and spacious, allowing visitors to feel as though they are immersed in a forest of books.
Since the addition of Starfield Library, the underground mall has become a hotspot for tourists to visit, anyone who appreciates a good book, architectural beauty and a tranquil ambience is sure to have a visit to the library at the top of their list. It is by far the most popular library in Seoul.
Today, all those who visit are left in awe as Starfield Library is truly one of the most unique and easily one of the most beautiful libraries in the world! Simply wandering around and soaking up the beauty of walls lined with endless rows of books is a great way to spend an hour or two in the afternoon.
How to visit the Starfield Library
Starfield Library is located in the heart of the shopping mall, it’s easily found as most people visiting will be walking in that general direction.
It’s completely free to visit the library! It’s part of the underground shopping mall and is an open public space where visitors are welcome to walk in and out freely. With this being said, do be mindful of the fact that this is a library, so people are trying to work and study here.
Of course, most of the books are Korean but you will be able to scout out some English copies too. There are over 50,000 books and 400 types of magazines, covering a huge range of topics. However, not all the books seen are real… what many people don’t realise is that the books on the highest shelves that cannot be reached are simply decorative.
The library is open every day from 10:30 AM – 10 PM.
Are there other Starfield libraries?
Yes! It was announced that a library “bigger, grander, and more Instagrammable than its predecessor” would be opened in the Starfield shopping complex in the city of Suwon-si. As of January 2024, the Byeolmadang Library opened its doors to visitors, occupying the 4th-7th floors.
This exceptional space will certainly become another major draw for tourists. With plans to host cultural events such as lectures and concerts, while the cosy pockets of spaces across the multiple floors offer endless nooks for people to study, learn and enjoy the beauty of the space created.
Enjoyed reading about how to visit Starfield Library? Pin this article now, read it again later:
