Hidden Gems of Korea: Bookstore Edition π
Korea never fails to surprise us with its hidden nooks and corners. From restaurants and cafes to noraebang places, Korea has it all! For all you book lovers out there looking for a place to escape, bookstores might just do the trick! Summer months leave many of us looking for some shade and these shops will take you in on a little adventure:
- Daeo Bookstore
Daeo Bookstore stands as one of the oldest bookstores in Korea. Its sixty-years-long history makes it unique. Run by Gwan O Nam, a grandmother who makes sure you feel just at home, this secondhand bookstore has been able to beat time itself.
Be sure to feel the nostalgia of old times safely stored between the pages of books at this small cafe cum bookstore.
Address:Β 55 Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- What the Book?
This one is especially for those looking for a good collection of English books. What the Book will give you not only the new releases, but allow you to exchange books!
If you were unable to find the book you were looking for, worry not, What the Book goes above and beyond to take care of your needs by ordering books in stock!
Address: 86 Bogwang-ro, Itaewon 1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Website: www.Whatthebook.com
- Your Mind
Trust us when we say that this bookstore looks like it is right out of a painting. Wooden furniture, stacks of art books, and two lovely cats to greet you while you explore the bookstore, can we ask for more?
This indie bookstore has a great collection of books by independent publishers. From photography and illustration books to handmade books and objects, the collection of this bookstore will leave your mind and soul happy!
Address: 10-6 Yeonhui-ro 11ra-gil, Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Website: http://your-mind.com/
- Paper Muse
Who doesnβt like flipping through pages of a magazine? Paper Muse will satisfy your craving for a good magazine without letting you pay a hefty price. Owner Won Sung-kyung, a magazine lover herself, opened this bookstore for anyone looking for affordable magazines in Korea.
Get your Vogue magazine and daydream through the day all you want!
Address: 685-11 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Website: http://papermuse.kr/
- Storage Book and Film
You might walk past this place without noticing it but if you are interested in both photography and books, we suggest you stop in front of this little shop and embark on the adventures it has ready for you.
Jam-packed with photo journals and art books, this might end up being your go-to bookstore. As if the books were not enough, they also provide you with photo walks around Seoul!
Address: 115-1 Sinheung-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
This short list of hidden bookstores in Korea will hopefully get you started on your Seoul adventures! As you treat yourself to books of all kinds, be sure to take a break from life and escape into a different world.
Happy summer! Let us know if you have stopped by these bookstores in the comments section!
Written by Sayantani Banerjee
