Recently, independent publishing is becoming a trend in Korea and the number of small bookstores in the neighborhood is increasing. People have more opportunities to choose a variety of content, and also able to get a glimpse of other people's interest and thoughts. In this post, we will be introducing 2 independent bookstores in Seoul that you can visit.
#1 gaga77page(가가77페이지)
Gaga 77 page is an independent bookstore located between Sangsu and Hapjeong, and it is also a complex cultural space with exhibitions and performances. The bookstore started in 2016 in a space across the Far East Broadcasting Station but moved to Seogyo-dong last year.
At the bookstore entrance, you can also check various artists' exhibitions or the schedule for flea market at other places nearby.
There is also a cafe that is operating together with Gaga 77 page bookstore. It is slightly more spacious as compared to other bookstores. In general, bookstore is a quiet space, but at Gaga 77 page bookstore, it is ok if it gets a little noisy. So don't worry to speak softly with your friends here.
You can find hundreds of books in this bookstore. It is easy to find a genre of book that you want because the different genre is indicated by different colors. In most cases of independent publications, the genre is often not so precise because it is usually individual project. Therefore, to help the customers to grasp the genre of the book in advance, the owner has arrange the books in such a way.
Other than books, you can also buy notepads, stickers and merchandises made by writers themselves.
When you look at the different merchandises, you might start to feel respect to the individuals who made them.
Handmade book covers are also available for purchase here.
There are various styles of books so anyone can read them.
The cafe is connected to the terrace and seats are available on the terrace. Why not enjoy the sun while reading a book? Even if it's a busy trip, if you have some extra time, why not spend some time to stop by an independent bookstore and read some books?
[Information about Gaga 77 Page]
1. Getting here :At AREX Digital Media City Station, transfer to Subway Line 6 ▶ Get off at Sangsu Station Exit 1, Walk 3 mins
2. Address : 2F, 50, Wausan-ro 15-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
3. Opening hours : 14:00 - 22:00 daily
4. Contact number : +82-10-6689-1558
5. Website: http://77page.com/
#2 Ain Bookstore (아인서점)
Ain Bookstore is a new independent bookstore that shares the same place with a design company in Hapjeong, located on the way from Hapjeong Station to Mangridan-gil.
It is located on the third floor of a residential building. Do check out for this sign.
Walk up the rather steep staircase,
A small, pretty independent bookstore will appear.
Upon entering the bookstore, you will see a small but fully utilized space with different postcards and illustrations, tables, books, and eco-bags.
Wouldn't it be difficult to find a book inside a small bookstore? However, it is actually much easier to find books than a packed bookstore because they have more spacious shelves here.
Often, you can feel the writer's sincerity when reading the books published by independent publishing company.
There are many interesting books that might catch your attention.
When you visit an independent bookstore, it gives you a feeling that you are respecting individual taste and diversity.
Besides that, you will also find LIFE's goods in Ain Bookstore.
You can purchase other products such as albums, eco bags and others. Ain Bookstore is not just an independent bookstore but you can also shop for cute items and merchandise here.
[Information about Ain Bookstore]
1. Getting here :At AREX Hongik University Station, transfer to Subway Line 2 ▶ Get off at Hapjeong Station exit 8, Walk 4 mins
2. Address : 3F, 31-30, Woldeukeom-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
3. Opening hours : 13:00 - 19:00 daily
4. Contact number : 070-8667-0033
*Please wear a mask and practice social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Wash hands frequently and practice cough etiquette. Stay safe!
