Groundbreaking for Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library Confirmed for End of Next Year

Project Moves Forward After Passing Seoul Investment Review

The construction of the Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library (Seoul Representative Library) has received final approval from the Seoul Metropolitan Government's investment review, confirming that groundbreaking will take place at the end of next year. Dongdaemun District Office announced on the 29th that the library project, which had been put on hold last year, has now been approved upon reconsideration, paving the way for full-scale development.

Aerial view of Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library. Provided by Dongdaemun District Office.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government's Investment Review Committee had decided to defer the project last July, stating that the operational plan needed further improvement. In response, Dongdaemun District, led by Mayor Lee Pilhyeong, worked closely with the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Department of Cultural Facilities to expand the library’s functions into a complex cultural space that includes exhibition, performance, and family areas. At the same time, the district incorporated residents’ feedback into a revised project plan, meeting the committee’s requirements.

The Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library will be built on a site in Jeonnong-dong, with a total floor area of 25,531 square meters. The project will serve as a pilot for low-carbon, eco-friendly wooden architecture, featuring green elements such as solar panels, passive design, and a rooftop garden. Upon completion, it is expected to become a major cultural landmark in northeastern Seoul.

Inside the library, facilities such as Seoul 50+ Campus, Seoul Citizens’ University, and Seoul-style Kids’ Caf? will be included, creating an integrated cultural and educational space for all generations. The integrated management system for Seoul’s public libraries will also be introduced, allowing citizens to access Seoul Metropolitan Library services with a single registration.

Mayor Lee Pilhyeong stated, “The Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library is a long-awaited project for local residents and a joint achievement of the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Dongdaemun District. We will continue to work with the city to create an open, complex cultural space that citizens can truly experience.” Construction of the Seoul Metropolitan Dongdaemun Library is scheduled to begin at the end of 2026, with completion targeted for 2030.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.