Seoul Book Bogo is the first public bookstore of its kind in the entire country. It opened its doors on March 27, 2019. Created in collaboration with 25 bookstores along Cheonggyecheon Stream, it stands as a multifaceted cultural space for citizens, offering independent publications, donated books from renowned publishers, book prescriptions, and various cultural programs.
“Seoul Public Bookstore, Seoul Book Bogo”
Seoul Book Bogo has transformed into a space that sells entrusted books from Seoul-based and nationwide bookstores, preserving the knowledge and know-how accumulated over the decades from its collection of over 120,000 books across 25 participating bookstores.
The interior design of Seoul Book Bogo is distinct. Bookshelves in the shape of arches or circles, which may appear somewhat inefficient, line the pathways, representing “bookworms.”
Additionally, the books in Seoul Book Bogo are not arranged alphabetically or by genre, as is typical in libraries. Instead, they are displayed by shelf, showcasing the offerings of each participating bookstore.
“Book Search Stations for Quick Access”
Similar to the days when a system for efficiently searching for books in libraries didn’t exist, visitors can walk along the circular iron bookshelves shaped like bookworms, exploring and enjoying the process of examining books one by one.
However, there’s also a quick way to find books. You can utilize the book search stations. After searching for a book at one of these stations, you can quickly locate your desired book by matching the bookstore name written on the printed paper with the name indicated on the directory. Additionally, you can search for books on the Seoul Book Bogo website using a mobile device.
“Space for Independent Publications”
In one corner of the bookshelves, you can find independently published works, created and printed by authors, deviating from the usual book production methods.
Here, you can freely peruse a total of 2,130 independent publications, ranging from out-of-print books to the latest releases, a collection not easily found in regular bookstores. (As of the opening date)
“Exhibits of Nostalgic Books and Items”
There’s a space showcasing books that preserve old memories, which are no longer readily available. In addition to books, old advertisements, flyers, and other materials from the past are exhibited, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in nostalgic reminiscences.
“Offering Cultural Programs at Seoul Book Bogo”
Seoul Book Bogo offers a variety of cultural programs, and there’s a designated space for these activities. With a stage for events like book concerts, book talks, reading discussions, and writing programs, tables and chairs are also provided.
In fact, they conduct various book culture programs such as book talks and book concerts. They also run community-based programs like reading discussions, book clubs, and writing programs.
“Hotel Del Luna Filming Location”
Seoul Book Bogo also serves as a filming location, notably appearing in the drama “Hotel Del Luna.” In the second episode of “Hotel Del Luna,” Seoul Book Bogo was featured. Initially, people thought it was a deliberately constructed set for the drama, as the existence of this place was relatively unknown.
After it became known that the filming location was “Seoul Book Bogo,” it gained recognition as a popular spot on Instagram. As a result, the average daily visitors increased to about 1,300, and on weekends, it reached around 2,000.
From its establishment to the exhibited books and second-hand book purchasing concept, along with nostalgic items and being a filming location, Seoul Book Bogo is a hidden gem in Jamsil with diverse charms. For those visiting via public transportation, it’s very close to Jamsilnaru Station on Line 2.
“Seoul Jamsil, Public Bookstore Seoul Book Bogo”
- Address: 14 Sincheon-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Phone: 02-6951-4979
- Operating Hours: (Tue-Fri) 11:00 – 20:00, (Sat-Sun) 10:00 – 20:00
- Closed on Mondays
- Website: Seoul Book Bogo