Seoul's public spaces

One of our favourite places is Jeongdok Library. While the library buildings are a little worn, the surrounding leafy walkways and grassy expanses offer a true respite in the heart of a busy city. Take the kids to introduce them to this thing called 'grass'. There is even a small pond with carp and a 'won-du-mak' raised wooden resting hut (pictured above), where you can sit to catch your breath. If that is taken, there are plenty of park benches (not so comfortable I admit) or grassy expanses to park your behind. The local population tend not to sit on the grass, but I have seen no signs asking that you don't.

The library even has a small parking area for visitors, which is free for less than one hour (after that I think you just need to get a stamp from the library). But don't try to leave your car there while you go somewhere else - they are watching! I hear the city does have plans to create a vast carpark under the library in the near future to accomodate the growing number of tourist buses and cars. There are also plans to rejuvinate the facility by making it a 'digital library centre'....

A panoramic view from the front library steps, showing Namsan Tower and other Seoul landmarks in the distancel

The main entrance to Jeongdok Library

Library entrance / One of the many leafy walkways

Pond and rest area / Main library building

Children's reading room / View from the main entrance

More pleasant walkways / Tangible Cultural Property No 9 - Joseon Dynasty government office

A famous Joseon Dynasty painting was from this location / Lots of park benches

The main library building and grounds

A Korean map detailing the library, its facilities and grounds.

For details on the library's history and autumn scenes, read more here at the Marmot's Hole.