Opening of Gangdong-gu Book Cafe Library Dadokdadok Gobundari Market Branch

Opening of the 2nd Branch of ‘Gangdong-style Complex Cultural Space’ Where People Meet Through Books (讀) and Tea (茶)

Library Exterior

[Asia Economy Reporter Jong-il Park] Gangdong-gu (Mayor Lee Jeong-hoon) is opening the Bukcafe Library Dadokdadok (多讀茶篤) Gobundari Market Branch (34-gil 16, Gucheonmyeon-ro).

Promoting itself as the "City of Books," Gangdong-gu will hold an opening ceremony at 3 p.m. on the 23rd to commemorate "World Book Day."

The Bukcafe Library "Dadokdadok (多讀茶篤)" is a Gangdong-style complex cultural space where people meet and communicate through books and tea, as its name suggests. Unlike the quiet atmosphere of a typical library, Dadokdadok allows visitors to enjoy tea, chat, and relax comfortably.

Starting with the first branch opened last September at Gildong Intersection (1419 Yangjae-daero, 2nd floor), Gangdong-gu aims to expand to 10 branches by the first half of 2022. The second branch is located within the Gobundari Traditional Market in Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu.

The Bukcafe Library Gobundari Market Branch covers approximately 228㎡ and includes reading tables, a seminar room for small group meetings, and a kids’ zone where children can read comfortably. The spacious and pleasant facilities are expected to attract children and young parents in their 30s and 40s to the market, becoming a resting place for residents visiting the market.

Additionally, the Bukcafe Library inside the market will serve as a knowledge recharge station for merchants who usually have limited access to libraries due to their busy daily lives. It is welcome news for market vendors as they can take a short break when tired.

About 2,000 books are available, including large-print books considering the elderly residents who mainly visit the market. There are also many pop-up books to attract the interest of children and younger generations.

Furthermore, book curation linked to market products and various cultural programs are expected to revitalize the stagnant traditional market.

Various club activities, including reading discussions, will be held to support residents in building relationships and sharing warmth with neighbors within the market.

Lee Jeong-hoon, Mayor of Gangdong-gu, stated, "We expect an increase in residents visiting the traditional market through the Bukcafe Library. We will thoroughly promote projects such as the Bukcafe Library, public libraries, and small library construction to establish a cultural enjoyment foundation for residents."

The operating hours of Gangdong-gu Bukcafe Library Dadokdadok Gobundari Market Branch are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Mondays and public holidays). However, until the social distancing level 2 due to COVID-19 is lifted, weekday hours are limited to 6 p.m.

For inquiries, contact the Culture and Arts Division of Gangdong-gu Office.