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South Korea is a fascinating destination known worldwide for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and incredible entertainment. While Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island often dominate the spotlight, Gimpo, a charming city in Gyeonggi Province, has quietly transformed itself into a paradise for book lovers and cultural explorers alike. Officially named South Korea City of Books for 2025, Gimpo offers visitors an exciting blend of literary experiences, making it a must-see destination on your Korean itinerary.
Gimpo: The 2025 City Where Books Come Alive in South Korea
If your idea of travel includes cozy cafés where you can dive into a great book or discovering local cultural gems tucked away in quaint neighborhoods, Gimpo is your next perfect stop.
Located conveniently close to Seoul, Gimpo combines modern comforts with the warmth of community-driven cultural events, showcasing why it’s now officially recognized as the 2025 City of Books of South Korea.
The city has steadily cultivated its identity around literature, boasting seven expansive municipal libraries as well as several intimate community reading spaces known as “small libraries.” Each venue welcomes visitors with open arms, offering inviting atmospheres ideal for unwinding, exploring new genres, or even striking up conversations with fellow book enthusiasts.
Why Gimpo? A Literary Haven with Deep Roots
Now, you may be wondering: why Gimpo? Well, South Korea doesn’t just randomly choose Gimpo as City of Books in 2025. In fact, you should know that just like its predecessor, Paju, Gimpo has been quietly building a strong foundation for literary culture for years. With seven municipal libraries, four small community libraries, newly-opened bookstores, and a variety of book-sharing programs, the city has established itself as a hub for readers and writers alike.
One of the standout events that has put Gimpo on the map is its annual Library Book Festival, which has been running since 2018. The city also hosts monthly humanities lectures, inviting leading scholars, writers, and intellectuals to engage with the public on literature, history, and philosophy.
Yet, it is this year—2025—that Gimpo has truly taken center stage.
2025: A Year of Books, Stories, and Cultural Connection
With the theme “Refresh with Books,” Gimpo will transform into a paradise for book lovers throughout 2025. The city will be hosting the Korea Reading Festival in September, the country’s largest annual event dedicated to promoting reading and literature.
During the festival, you can enjoy an immersive experience that brings together publishers, bookstores, libraries, and literary figures from across the country. This event will be extremely appealing, especially if you’re a dedicated reader, a casual book browser, or someone looking to discover new authors.
Still, you don’t need to worry because the magic of Gimpo as South Korea City of Books isn’t limited to September 2025.
Book-Related Activities to Experience in Gimpo
If you’re planning a visit to Gimpo in 2025 (or beyond), here are some must-experience literary events and destinations:
Evening Reading Sessions at Taesan Family Park (June)
Imagine a warm summer night, an open park, and a good book. These family-friendly outdoor reading sessions create the perfect setting for winding down with literature.
“Refresh” Lecture Series at Gimpo’s Libraries (May – August)
Featuring renowned figures like author-comedian Go Myung-hwan and humanities scholar Kim Heon, this series brings literature and deep conversations to life.
Community Book-Sharing Initiatives
Gimpo is all about making books accessible. Visitors can participate in book exchange programs and explore the city’s cozy library spaces for a relaxing reading experience.
Independent Bookstores & Cafés
For those who love hunting for unique reads, Gimpo has several charming independent bookstores and book cafés where you can sip on traditional Korean tea while flipping through a great novel.
Beyond the Books: A Complete Cultural Experience
While Gimpo’s literary scene is a major draw, there’s still more to explore in this historically rich and scenically beautiful city.
Aegibong Peace Ecological Park
A tranquil retreat that offers stunning views of North Korea, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Hangang (Han River) Waterfront Areas
Perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and biking, adding to the peaceful, bookish charm of the city.
Traditional Korean Food
No visit is complete without sampling authentic Korean dishes at local restaurants. From homemade kimchi to savory jeon (pancakes), Gimpo offers a taste of Korea’s culinary heritage.
Why Book Lovers Should Visit Gimpo Now
Even if you’re not planning a visit during the 2025 Korea Reading Festival, Gimpo’s literary spirit will remain as ongoing cultural movement. Whether it’s through small book gatherings, open-air readings, or local bookstores brimming with stories, Gimpo has now turned into a city that celebrates books every day.
However, it doesn’t mean that Gimpo is merely all about books. If you’re seeking something beyond its literary appeal, Gimpo also offers a calm, intellectual escape from the fast-paced city life. It’s a place where stories live, books connect people, and reading turns into a profound a way of life.
So, if you’re planning your next trip to South Korea, consider taking a short detour from Seoul and discovering the magic of Gimpo, the City of Books. Then, come and uncover what makes this delightful city a haven for book lovers and culture seekers from around the globe.
Finally, a world of stories and warm hospitality awaits you in Gimpo. And they are ready to turn your visit into an unforgettable chapter.
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