Starfield Library Seoul
A futuristic, two-level library in COEX Mall, Seoul, featuring towering floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a unique cultural event space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Starfield Library Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A futuristic, two-level library in COEX Mall, Seoul, featuring towering floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a unique cultural event space.
"It's a library of dreams, a book lover's paradise, and a photographer's dream come true!"
📸 Capture the Iconic Shot
The main atrium offers the most famous view. Be patient for your turn to get that perfect photo.
📚 Real Books, Mostly Display
While real books are present, many on the upper shelves are for display. Bring your own book if you plan to read.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Towering Bookshelves
Main Atrium
Marvel at the immense, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves that create a breathtaking, futuristic backdrop. A true book lover's dreamscape.
The 'Book Cafe' Vibe
Various cafes within the library area
Enjoy a coffee or snack amidst the literary atmosphere. Some cafes even feature unique vinyl collections.
Cultural Performances
Main Atrium
Occasionally, the library hosts performances, adding a dynamic cultural layer to the serene setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Is it a Library or a Photo Op?
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Iconic Shot
The main atrium offers the most famous view. Be patient for your turn to get that perfect photo.
📚 Real Books, Mostly Display
While real books are present, many on the upper shelves are for display. Bring your own book if you plan to read. +1
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Several cafes are nestled within the library, perfect for a break and people-watching.
🛍️ Explore the Mall
Starfield Library is inside COEX Mall, offering extensive shopping and dining options.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Iconic Shot
The main atrium offers the most famous view. Be patient for your turn to get that perfect photo.
📚 Real Books, Mostly Display
While real books are present, many on the upper shelves are for display. Bring your own book if you plan to read. +1
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Several cafes are nestled within the library, perfect for a break and people-watching.
🛍️ Explore the Mall
Starfield Library is inside COEX Mall, offering extensive shopping and dining options.
🚶♀️ It's More Than a Photo Spot
Don't dismiss it as just a tourist trap; it's a functional library with study spaces and events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Starfield Library is widely praised for its breathtaking architecture and unique, Instagrammable design, making it a must-see visual spectacle in Seoul. While some find it more of a photo opportunity than a traditional library, visitors appreciate the vast bookshelves and the surrounding amenities of COEX Mall. The main drawback is the significant crowds, which can detract from a quiet reading experience.
"Absolutely breathtaking! It is one of the most beautiful libraries I’ve ever visited. The towering bookshelves, soft lighting, and modern design make it feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. It’s located right in the middle of a bustling mall, yet it feels calm and inspiring — a perfect place to pause, browse books, or just take in the atmosphere. A must-visit spot in Seoul, even if you’re not a bookworm."
Titian Ratu
"Love such places. What I don’t like is crowds😅
The mall/building is so huge that it took some time to reach the library.
There was no entrance fee.
That said, the place often feels more like an Instagram backdrop than a functioning library. Many of the books you admire on upper shelves are fake or unreachable, and only a small portion of the lower shelves hold real titles
Seats and desks are plentiful—but during busy times you may struggle to find a spot, and the space can get noisy with traffic and tourists posing for photos"
Ksana
"Whoever thought of this is a genius. To attract the crowd to the COEX exhibit hall and mall, they created this huge public space with a LIBRARY concept branding in mind. To be honest most of the books you see are for aesthetic purposes only. I doubt if there's any book at all high above the shelves. Probably book covers only but the effect is undeniably spectacular. In fact this is a popular setting for some K-movies and Drama. You do have some magazine racks and newspapers where the locals would sit and read at the ground floor. There are also coffee shops at the corners of the library which compliments the overall design and functionality of this place. Its a must see for tourist so it can get crazy during busy seasons."
DanAGo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Starfield Library is located within COEX Mall in Gangnam. You can easily reach it via subway Line 2 to Samseong Station, which has direct access to the mall. +1
Yes, it's very accessible by public transport. The nearest subway station is Samseong Station (Line 2), directly connected to COEX Mall. Buses also serve the area frequently.
Starfield Library is located in the Gangnam district, which is a central and well-connected area of Seoul. Travel time will vary depending on your starting point, but it's generally easy to reach.
Yes, you can drive to Starfield Library. COEX Mall has ample parking facilities, though parking fees will apply.
From Incheon Airport, you can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station and then transfer to subway Line 2 towards Samseong Station. Alternatively, airport limousine buses are available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Starfield Library is free. It's a public space within COEX Mall.
Starfield Library generally follows the operating hours of COEX Mall. It's typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official COEX Mall website for the most up-to-date information.
There's no need to reserve a spot as it's a free-access public space. However, during peak hours, it can get very crowded.
There is no admission fee to enter Starfield Library. It's a complimentary attraction within the mall.
Yes, Starfield Library often hosts various cultural events, book readings, and exhibitions. It's best to check their social media or COEX Mall's event calendar for current happenings.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
Yes, the books are real, but many on the higher shelves are primarily for aesthetic display. You can access and read books from the lower, more accessible shelves. +1
While it's a library, it can be quite crowded, making it challenging for focused study. However, there are seating areas, and people do read there. +1
Weekdays, especially in the morning, are generally less crowded. Evenings can also be a good option. Weekends are typically very busy.
Absolutely! Starfield Library is renowned for its stunning architecture and is a very popular spot for photography. +1
As part of COEX Mall, Wi-Fi is generally available. Charging stations might be found in designated areas or cafes within the mall.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the library itself doesn't have a full restaurant, there are cafes within the library area offering drinks and light snacks.
COEX Mall, where Starfield Library is located, boasts a vast array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes.
It's generally recommended to consume food and drinks in designated cafe areas or outside the main library space to maintain the ambiance and cleanliness.
Yes, COEX Mall offers a wide variety of restaurants, many of which provide vegetarian and vegan options. You'll find diverse cuisines to choose from.
One popular cafe mentioned is known for its vinyl collection, offering a unique atmosphere. Exploring the library area will reveal other charming cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The central atrium, with its grand scale and towering bookshelves, is the most iconic spot for photos. +1
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photoshoots might require prior permission. Be mindful of other visitors.
Early mornings on weekdays offer the best light and fewest people for unobstructed shots. Evenings can also provide a beautiful, softer light.
Tripods might be restricted, especially during busy hours, to avoid obstructing pathways. It's best to check with mall staff if you plan to use one.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the full scale of the bookshelves. Natural light is abundant, but a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for evenings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be aware that it can get quite crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is essential. The library's cafes offer a good spot for a snack break. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more comfortable for little ones.
📸 Photographers and Influencers
Be prepared for other visitors also seeking the perfect shot. While casual photography is generally permitted, be mindful of others and avoid blocking pathways. Some visitors suggest that while the upper shelves are for display, the lower accessible shelves offer real books for those who wish to incorporate them into their shots or even read.
📚 Book Lovers and Readers
The library's integration within COEX Mall also means you're surrounded by bookstores and cultural spaces, offering a rich experience for anyone passionate about literature and learning. The sheer visual impact of the library itself is often enough to inspire a deeper appreciation for books.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture and Design
The sheer scale of the bookshelves, reaching up to 13 meters high, is designed to be visually impactful. While many of these books are real, a significant portion, especially those on the upper tiers, are primarily for aesthetic purposes, contributing to the library's iconic look. This unique approach blends the functionality of a library with the visual appeal of an art installation.
Beyond its visual grandeur, the library is intended as a cultural space. It hosts various events, author talks, and exhibitions, aiming to be a vibrant hub for knowledge and community engagement. The integration within COEX Mall also means it's surrounded by shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a multifaceted destination.
Navigating the 'Library' Experience
Many Redditors suggest that if your primary goal is quiet reading or in-depth study, you might find it challenging due to the constant flow of people and the general buzz. However, for those looking to immerse themselves in a visually stunning environment, enjoy a coffee, or simply appreciate the unique concept, it's a must-visit. Bringing your own book is a common tip for those who wish to read in peace.
The library's location within COEX Mall is a significant advantage, allowing visitors to easily combine their visit with shopping, dining, or exploring other attractions within the mall, such as the COEX Aquarium or the Starfield COEX Mall itself, which is known for its diverse retail offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit