The Seoul Outdoor Library (서울야외도서관) turns open spaces in the middle of the city into places where anyone can sit down and read freely. The Seoul Metropolitan Library runs it for the city, and it was first launched in 2022.
The easiest way in is simply to come and read. At Gwanghwamun Square the reading space is around the Gwanghwamun Lounge and Yukjo Madang, and along Cheonggyecheon it follows the upper stream from Mojeongyo to Gwangtonggyo. Look out for the Travel Library with books from 14 countries, shelves curated by citizens, and Chaek-meong sessions for quiet, focused reading.
For international visitors there is the Seoul Outdoor Library Tour, an English-guided walk across Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon. A dedicated guide explains what the library is for and talks about Seoul's history and culture along the way.
The programme also has author talks, including the French writer Bernard Werber, and performances. Opening week brought live music, open-air films and a mini outdoor library from DDP to Seoul Plaza, and local districts run pop-up booths and smaller outdoor libraries of their own.
Whether a given day runs in daytime or evening hours depends on temperature and conditions, so check the link before you set out.