At 110 Sejong-daero, Seoul Metropolitan Library occupies the former City Hall, a 1926 building now used as a public library. Its historic civic architecture makes a striking contrast with the modern city around it. Inside, look for displays about the building and Seoul’s municipal history, including archival photographs and information about former mayors. The library has tall bookshelves and titles in languages including English, French and Spanish. Head to the fifth-floor Sky Yard for a rooftop garden and city views, then pair your visit with Deoksugung Palace across the street.
From City Hall to a public library
The building at 110 Sejong-daero was constructed in 1926 as Seoul’s City Hall. It now houses the Seoul Metropolitan Library, bringing a former civic building into everyday public use. Its older architecture sits within a modern downtown setting, and the library is directly across the street from Deoksugung Palace.
Displays inside cover the history of the building and Seoul as a municipality. Look for archival photographs and material about former mayors. These exhibits give the former City Hall a second role as a place to learn about the city’s civic past, alongside its use as a reading space.
Books, reading spaces and the rooftop
The library has books in several languages, including English, French and Spanish. Its tall shelves are among the details to look for as you explore the interior. The collection size is reported differently, so it is best not to rely on a specific total when planning a visit.
On the fifth floor, the Sky Yard is a rooftop garden with views over Seoul. It gives you a place to pause after looking around the building. Outdoor reading events are held on occasion; past events have included themed book selections, tents, couches and live music. These programs are not a regular part of every visit, so check the library’s schedule if one is a priority.
The library is also a useful stop for a quiet break in the downtown area. Staff have been noted as helpful to foreign visitors, and the multilingual books can make browsing more accessible. To see both the library and the nearby palace, allow time for each rather than limiting your stop to the entrance floor.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is Seoul Metropolitan Library?
It is a public library housed in Seoul’s former City Hall, a building constructed in 1926.
What can you see inside Seoul Metropolitan Library?
The building has displays on its history and Seoul’s municipal past, including archival photographs and information about former mayors. You can also browse books in several languages.
Does Seoul Metropolitan Library have a rooftop garden?
Yes. The fifth-floor Sky Yard is a rooftop garden with views across the city.
Is Seoul Metropolitan Library open on Mondays?
No. The library is closed on Mondays.
