UPDATE: A new Starfield Library opened in January 2024, this time in Suwon. And, of course, we made our way there ourselves to see what it was all about. Check out our post on the Suwon Starfield Library.
If you’ve been on TikTok or Instagram, I’m sure you’ve seen pictures and videos of the COEX Starfield Library. A huge glass skylight letting in rays of natural light while rows of books aesthetically adorn winding, curvy shelves. But there are somethings every traveler needs to know about this photo hot spot before they plan their visit.
Here’s everything you need to know before you visit the COEX Starfield Library.
What is the COEX Starfield Library?
Like the name implies, it’s an actual library. The first floor is filled with books, magazines, and ereaders for anyone to use. The second floor also features books on easily accesible shelves lining the outer walls of the library. Contrary to popular belief, not all the books on the shelves are real. Many are decorative boxes that appear like books. There are plenty of places to sit down and rest including study desks with outlets to charge your phones. Unlike most libraries, you can’t check out books from the COEX Starfield Library. So patrons are expected to leave their books and magazines back where they got them or on book carts placed throughout the area.
The library looks amazing in photos thanks to its unique design. There are always tourists and travelers posing for photos and taking videos at all hours of the day.
Where is the COEX Starfield Library?
The COEX Starfield Library is located in the COEX Starfield mall by Samsung Station on subway line no. 2 in Seoul. Once you arrive at Samsung Station, follow the signs towards COEX mall (towards exit 5 and 6). Follow the blue track, cross through the open courtyard and into COEX mall. From there, keep following the track to the Starfield Library. You can’t miss it.
If you find yourself in the Hyundai mall, you’ve made a wrong turn, but the malls are all connected so follow the signs and you’ll get there.
Address
- Yeongdong-daero 513, Starfield COEX Mall B1 (영동대로 513 B1)
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Is the COEX Starfield Library worth visiting?
Yes and no. For most travelers, the COEX Starfield Library is a photo op and nothing more. If you’re exploring the mall, it’s a great place to rest your feet and take in the view. For visitors who go to the library expecting an experience all its own, disappointment abounds. So, do some shopping at the COEX mall or the Hyundai mall next door. Better yet, catch a movie at the MEGABOX theater or head to one of my favorite sundae gukbap restaurants nearby for lunch.
What Events are at the COEX Starfield Library?
The Starfield Library has a monthly schedule of lectures, concerts and other events. The schedule can be found on the Starfield Events page (Korean only).
Christmas Event at the COEX Starfield Library
Every December, the Starfield library hosts a holiday-themed light show. For 2023, the show can be seen from 6 PM to 10 PM (7 PM to 8:30 PM on Wednesdays, Fridays) until early-February. The show itself is only a few minutes long and plays every 15 minutes so if you miss it, you won’t have to wait long to see it again.
Tips for visiting the COEX Starfield Library
It’s a Library, Use It
If you have a minute, actually browse through the library. There are magazines in multiple languages on the first floor while the second floor houses specialty books. I tend to spend a lot of time in the art section thanks to their collection of cartoon and animated film books. A trip to Seoul involves a lot of walking and the COEX Starfield Library is one of the best places to take a break at.
Seasonal Art Installation
Depending on the season, there’s a huge art installation in the center of the library. In the winter, it’s usually a Christmas tree, but it’s also been an artificial garden and a sprawing tree made of reclaimed wood. It’s well-curated so take a moment to breathe it all in.
Kyoto Latte, a Hidden Gem
Stop by the café on the second floor and try the Kyoto latte from %Arabica. It’s popular with local office workers and tends to have a line around lunch time. Stop by again after 2 PM and the wait will be considerably shorter. If nothing else, it’ll give you a place to sit if the library seats are all taken.
Know When It’s Time to Leave
Don’t dawdle. The Starfield Library isn’t an attraction, it’s a short stop on your way somewhere else. The COEX mall and Hyundai Malls are well worth checking out with plenty of shops to browse. If you have more time, then Boutique M at Megabox is an upscale movie viewing experience. They have couch and recliner seating along with craft beer and smaller theaters.
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