The Suryeon branch I visited this time felt less like a simple bookstore and more like a cultural space you’d want to spend a long time in.

The second floor is split into two areas: one where you can have a drink and talk, and a quiet space for reading. The inner section is good for reading or working. It’s a comfortable atmosphere whether you want to take a break with a coffee or quietly sit and think.

What stood out most was the way books from a range of different fields were curated. Books I wouldn’t normally pay attention to somehow caught my eye, and there was real enjoyment in flipping through pages and discovering new interests I didn’t know I had. Just being able to enjoy this kind of small pleasure in the neighborhood already feels like enough of a “sohwakhaeng” (small, certain happiness).

The bookshelves stretching across the wall feel like the symbol of Bulgwang Mungo.

The inner section also has two separate single-person rooms and a two-person room for more private time, though there’s a separate fee to use them.

Just looking at the wall of books lined up made me feel good without even meaning to — sometimes books have a way of lifting your mood just by looking at them, even without reading a page.

The antique lighting caught my eye too.

Overall, the furniture leans dark in color, but with antique patterns and a European touch worked in as accents, which stood out.

That rocking chair looked really comfortable.

There’s a notice at the entrance explaining that seating is available if you buy a book or order a drink.

It was hot out, so I had an iced latte — it had a nice nutty flavor, and since the cup was double-walled glass, it stayed cold for a long time, which was convenient.

Looking at the poster by the entrance, it seems like they’ll be holding various events going forward, like book talks and lectures.

That said, I did have one small complaint. I found myself wishing the drink area were completely separate from where the books are displayed. Since everything is arranged on a single floor, it seems drinks ended up being served right next to where the books are shelved — if that space were separated, I think it would’ve been easier to focus on the books. I liked being able to sit quietly with a cup of tea alongside the books, but I think satisfaction would’ve been even higher if the two areas had a clearer distinction.

Or maybe, since it’s still early days, the curation and category signage just isn’t developed enough yet, which is why the book topics and shelf locations didn’t stand out to me as much as I expected. (This part is just my personal opinion.)

Even so, the simple fact that Bulgwang Mungo has reopened is a genuinely welcome thing. Having a bookstore like this in the neighborhood is a bigger source of happiness than you’d expect. I hope it keeps growing into a space that’s loved by even more people, and one that helps lead Eunpyeong-gu’s local culture going forward.

Info

Bulgwang Mungo Suryeon Branch  

Address: Yeonseo-ro 71, 2F, Eunpyeong District, Seoul, South Korea  
Nearest station: Gusan Station

opening hours : 10 am - 9 pm