War Memorial Archive Library

A history outing with your child, War Memorial Archive Library

What is the War Memorial Archive Library?

Located on the 2nd floor of the War Memorial of Korea at 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, the Archive Library is an open cultural space where you can freely browse a wide range of materials and books about the War Memorial's own history, war, and peace all in one place. It opened in 2023 to mark the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, and features Korean War materials collected from around the world, along with various war history books, general interest books, and children's books, making it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Features of the space

• The full glass front fills the space with sunlight and creates a pleasant atmosphere, with a great view of N Seoul Tower and the War Memorial plaza at a glance.
• The spacious, bright window seats, reading areas with power outlets, and comfortable reading environment stand out.
• Unlike a typical library, the collection is organized by themes such as the Korean War, world wars, domestic wars, general interest, and children's books.
• The children's area is charmingly designed, with a separate corner where kids can read comfortably.
• In addition to the library, there is also a special archives room where you can browse rare photos, documents, and video records related to the Korean War.

Why it is great to enjoy with your child

• It offers a wide selection of books, from war history and history books that help kids naturally engage with the past to storybooks, general interest books, and novels.
• You can combine reading with hands-on experiences through linked exhibitions, history education programs, and various displays.
• While parents explore the exhibitions, children can wait comfortably in the children's corner with a book, making it a pleasant outing for the whole family.
• Even on weekends, it tends to be calm and comfortable, so you can enjoy books at a relaxed pace.

Visitor information

• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 09:30 to 18:00 (last entry 17:00 / closed every Monday)
• How to use: Open to everyone for free entry and on-site browsing of materials only (book lending is not available)
• Parking: Parking lot inside the War Memorial of Korea, 4,000 won for 2 hours, 1,500 won for each additional 30 minutes, daily maximum 30,000 won
• Getting there: 3 minutes on foot from Exit 12 of Samgakji Station on Subway Lines 4 and 6

Things to know before you visit

• It is located on the 2nd floor of the War Memorial of Korea and is a free library open to everyone.
• Food and drinks are not allowed inside.
• Books cannot be borrowed, so reading is available on-site only.
• Since many families visit, the children's corner can get busy on weekends.
• Nearby attractions such as the War Memorial, Children's Museum, and other hands-on facilities make it a great choice for a full-day outing.
• The children's book corner is designed so kids can sit comfortably and read. Shoes can be removed before use. The children's book corner has step-style seating, so please watch young children carefully to help prevent falls.

MomMom recommended points

• In this bright and comfortable space, your child can enjoy a variety of books and build historical imagination.
• It is a cultural space where the whole family can relax comfortably, and a worthwhile destination for a Yongsan outing.
• Highly recommended for families looking for a multi-experience space that brings together exhibitions, activities, and reading.

Available amenities

• Nursing room
• Diaper changing station
• Parking

Unavailable amenities

• High chair
• Stroller rental
• Reservation

Parking fees

• Parking is paid. The basic fee is 4,000 won for 120 minutes, with an additional 1,500 won charged for every extra 30 minutes.