Small library in Gyeongbokgung Palace, welcoming spring

For those of you here in Seoul looking for a peaceful place to indulge in books the king's study at Gyeongbokgung Palace is open as a small public library.

Our Choi Soo-hyung tells us more.

Spring has arrived in Gyeongbokgung Palace.

This part of the palace.. is called 'Jibokjae', which means "Collecting precious jewels such as jade."

It is connected with Palujeong, an octagonal two-story pavilion, and Hyeopgildang Hall, showcasing a distinctive traditional architectural beauty.

Inside the buildings, over a thousand books fill the walls, and people look around and read.

From April 2nd, the 'Jibokjae' has been opened as a small library.

Here, visitors can read books, relax, and enjoy a moment of peace.

The low ceiling gives visitors a cozy feeling and lets them see the beautiful Dancheong, traditional Korean patterns, up close.

"I think it's yeah peaceful, quiet, so yeah, I feel lucky to be here actually. I choose other books like poem just to see how it's like writing."

"We came here to enjoy the nice weather and also to learn more about our culture. The atmosphere is very calm and peaceful and it feels like the perfect place to relax. We are having a really great time."

Since 2016, the Korea Heritage Service has opened this space for free to allow visitors to experience the palace more closely.

This building was built in 1881 and was used by King Gojong as a study and to receive foreign envoys.

It closed during the COVID-19 pandemic but reopened in 2022.

Currently, this place has over 1,700 books related to the history of the Joseon Dynasty and royal family.

"It also offers books for children, foreign language translations and, and rare resources such as the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, which are not easily found elsewhere."

The office plans to hold programs such as meet-the-author events and book talks at the library.

The Jibokjae small library will be open until October 31, except in July and August.

Choi Soo-hyung, Arirang News.