Seoul Open Library 'Chaek Ilneun Seoul Gwangjang' Opens... Outdoor Library 'Chaek Ilneun Seoul Gwangjang'

Outdoor Bean Bag Installation, 3,000-Volume Book Curation Available
Book Talk with Architect Professor Yoo Hyun-jun, Picture Book Exhibition by Andersen Award-Winning Author Lee Su-ji

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] After outdoor events at Seoul Plaza were suspended for over two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, events at Seoul Plaza are set to resume. The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on the 19th that it will create a "Reading Seoul Plaza" to welcome citizens on the 23rd in celebration of "World Book Day."

"Reading Seoul Plaza" is the nation's first-ever "open outdoor library." It will operate from World Book Day on the 23rd until the end of October. After a break during the hot and rainy months of July and August, it will reopen in September when the cool breeze returns.

"Reading Seoul Plaza" consists of a bookshelf zone, a reading zone, and an event zone. On the 23rd, a commemorative event will be held to mark the opening of "Reading Seoul Plaza," featuring acoustic performances and book talks. The first exhibition in the "Author of the Month" corner at "Reading Seoul Plaza" will showcase picture books by Lee Su-ji, the first Korean picture book author to receive the Andersen Award, known as the "Nobel Prize of Children's Literature," running until May.

Joo Yong-tae, Head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Culture Headquarters, said, "'Reading Seoul Plaza' is a happy and enjoyable space where citizens, who have felt constrained due to COVID-19, can fully enjoy books and relaxation in the open plaza." He added, "We hope all citizens will experience the 'joy of reading' and 'leisure in daily life' at 'Reading Seoul Plaza,' where books, performances, and culture come together."