If you were thinking of skipping Seoul’s Gangnam district and sticking to the historical charm of Bukchon Hanok Village, think again. Gangnam isn’t just flashy streets and K-pop references—it’s home to modern attractions like Starfield Library, a spot that will literally take your breath away.
Located inside COEX Mall, the largest underground shopping center in Asia, Starfield Library in Seoul, South Korea is more than just a library—it’s a full sensory experience. Now, I’ll admit it: I’m not the type to wander through giant malls while traveling. I’d rather explore boutique shops and hidden gems. But COEX Mall called me for one reason: Starfield Library. Quick facts to hook you:
- COEX Mall has over 40,000 sea creatures in its aquarium. Yes, an aquarium inside a mall.
- Starfield Library Seoul houses over 50,000 books, including a few in English.
- The library’s ceiling soars 13 meters (42 feet), with towering bookcases stretching from floor to sky.
How to Get to Starfield Library
The easiest way to reach Starfield Library is by subway:
- Take the Samseong Station line and exit 6.
- Follow signs toward Starfield COEX Mall.
- Look for the East entrance, marked by a giant statue of two hands performing the iconic Gangnam Style horse-riding dance move.
The mall is hard to miss. It's located in the heart of the Gangnam district. I'm sure you've all heard of the hit song Gangnam Style. For those who do not know what Gangnam is or why it is special, it is a district in Seoul that is considered the Beverly Hills of South Korea. It is where all the Korean celebrities live, it is rich in stores, dining, international business, clubs, and really nice cars. And let's not forget, some of the best plastic surgery institutions in Asia. Koreans are very big into plastic surgery and you'll see signs everywhere for it! But I digress.
Exploring the Starfield Library
Once inside, follow the signs to the main attraction. While 50,000 books might sound impressive, what really sets this library apart is the architecture and design. The perimeter bookcases tower two stories high.
The center of the library features triangle-shaped bookcases forming artistic images of animals, Santa, and seasonal motifs—made entirely of stacked books. Truly a Seoul modern attraction at its finest. Seating options are abundant: plush sofas, table seats, benches, and cafés inside the library where you can recharge while browsing.
Tips for Book Lovers
The majority of the books at Starfield Library are in Korean, but you can also find a few English books if you ask at one of the information kiosks. Unfortunately, you cannot check out any of the books, but you can read them within the area physically or from an iPad in one of the 200 seats available to people. From plush sofas, table seats, benches, and cafés, there is no shortage of space.
Beyond Starfield Library: Discover Gangnam
Gangnam isn’t just about luxury stores. It’s a playground for modern Seoul experiences. Once you’ve marveled at Starfield Library, keep the energy going with some of the district’s most Instagrammable and innovative cafés:
- Banana Tree Café serves desserts in flower pots, eaten with tiny shovels. Only in Korea—or Japan, depending on how you look at it.
- C. Through Café is another must-visit, especially for art and coffee lovers. After leaving the Korean National History Museum, my mom and I needed a joyous pick-me-up, and this café delivered. Known for creamart (think latte art on steroids), barista Lee Kangbin can transform cold creamy drinks into works of art—from simple designs to complex creations like Van Gogh’s The Starry Night. Some of these masterpieces take up to an hour to create, so plan ahead if you’re eyeing the super complex designs. It’s not just coffee—it’s a visual and culinary experience. You can read more about my visit here.
- Nearby Spa Lei offers the ultimate Korean body scrub experience—because, when in Seoul, why not treat yourself?
If you weren't planning on stopping by the Gangnam area, I highly recommend you do. Sure, I agree that the historical district of Bukchon Hanok Village has more charm to it. But if you want to live and breathe the true modern culture of Korea, a visit to COEX Mall to see Starfield Library is a must.
>> Next: Exploring the Work of Art That Is Ihwa Mural Village
@svadore If you were thinking of skipping the Gangnam district and sticking to the historical village of Bukchon in South Korea, think again. Gangnam’s modern and innovative experiences like Starfield Library will take your breath away… a must see! • • • • #seoul #starfieldlibrary #travelling #southkoreatravel #foryou #booklovers ♬ La belle vie - Sacha Distel
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