Free Beanbag Library in Central Seoul, Closing Nov. 1 (Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun, Cheonggyecheon)

Six days left

Seoul Outdoor Library opened on Apr. 23 and runs until Nov. 1 according to the city. It opens only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, so six days remain: Oct. 23-25 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1.

Daytime hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; evening hours are 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The official site says times can change with weather and events.

Three sites, three moods

Seoul Plaza is the city's living room: beanbags on the lawn in front of City Hall, with performance, play and pop-up zones next door, which makes it popular with families.

Gwanghwamun Book Yard puts you in a seat with Bukaksan behind you. Cheonggyecheon's Reading Clear Stream sets book baskets along the water between Mojeongyo and Gwangtonggyo and offers silent reading with wireless headsets.

First come, free of charge

All seats, beanbags included, are free and need no reservation. Just sit in an empty one; the organizers ask visitors not to leave seats empty for long or save them.

Pets are not allowed at Seoul Plaza or along the Cheonggyecheon stretch. At Gwanghwamun they can enter the square but not the beanbag and tent areas. Only light drinks and snacks are allowed.

How many books

Librarians at the Seoul Library picked more than 12,000 books spread over the three sites, the city said at the April opening. It is a read-on-site library, not a lending desk, and books borrowed from the Seoul Library cannot be returned here.

Before you go

Seoul Plaza is right outside Exit 5 of City Hall Station (Lines 1 and 2). Gwanghwamun Book Yard is above the stairs of Exit 9 at Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5). For Cheonggyecheon, take Exit 5 and head down into Cheonggye Plaza.

There is no dedicated parking, so the subway is easier. The lawn gets chilly after dark; bring a jacket. Inquiries: +82-2-2133-0300.