Gangseo Miracle Library is the first Miracle Library in Busan and a children’s public library established in cooperation with the Book Culture Foundation.
The library holds a unique story: a 300-year-old hackberry tree, once at risk due to urban development, was relocated to the site and incorporated into the library’s design so that children can grow alongside the wisdom it has preserved over time. Visible from every angle—including the Book Café and traditional Korean Toetmaru—the tree offers a distinctive reading experience.
The library is designed for young visitors to explore the “Path of Wisdom”, featuring Ondol-style wooden flooring throughout. With imaginative spaces, including tiered stacks, attic rooms, and cave-inspired areas, every corner is designed to spark their curiosity and encourage exploration.
Blending nature, architecture, and people in harmony, the library was honored with the 2019 Busan Architecture Award and offers a space for inspiration and reflection.
Library Overview
- Library Name: Busan Gangseo Miracle Library
- Address: 80, Myeongji ocean city 10-ro, Gangseo-gu, Busan
- Facilities: Site Area 2,438㎡ / Gross Floor Area 1,289.18㎡ (B1–2F)
Floor | Spaces | Remarks | |
2F | Collections | – Kkum-namu Collection (Children & Young Adults) – Areumdeuri Collection (Adults) – Parenting Collection | 400.73 m² |
Cultural Space | – Deullak Nallak Digital Experience Hall | ||
1F | Collections | – Saessak Collection (Infants & Toddlers) – New Arrivals Corner – Luka the Reading Owl Corner | 809.95 m² |
Cultural Space | – Nuribom Space (Multipurpose Room) – Book Café – Kkumoreum Stairs (1F–2F) | ||
Other Facilities | – Nursing Room – Restrooms (Adults / Children) | ||
B1 | Facility Management | – Communication Server Room, Mechanical Room | 78.5 m² |
- Parking: Myeongji-dong Neighborhood Park (Myeongji-dong 3247)
- Free parking (approx. 400 spaces, open year-round)
- Staff: 7 (including 6 librarians)
- Opened: October 23, 2018 / Reopened: May 17, 2023 (following Deullak-Nallak remodelling)
Main Features
- Busan’s first and the 13th Miracle Library in Korea, part of a nationwide children’s library initiative, established in partnership with the Reading Society & Culture Foundation and built with a donated architectural design
- A children’s library designed around a relocated 300-year-old hackberry tree, visible from various spaces, including the Book Café and traditional Korean Toetmaru (Korean traditional wooden veranda), allowing children to experience its history and wisdom.
- A uniquely designed building with Ondol-style wooden floors (Korean underfloor heating) across the 1st and 2nd floors, featuring multi-level stacks, cave-like spaces, attic rooms, and nook spaces that stimulate children’s curiosity; recipient of the 2019 Busan Architecture Award
- Given one of the highest proportions of young residents in the country, the library is a popular hub for families and children, from infants to elementary school students.
Nearby Attractions: Cultural Venues, Parks, Temples, and Local Dining
- Myeongji Migratory Bird Observatory, Myeongji Neighborhood Park, Daejeo Eco Park, Maekdo Ecological Park
- Daehang Port East Breakwater Lighthouse, Daehang Saebaji artificial cave
- Nakdong Art Center
- LetsRun Park (horse-themed park)
- Local Dining: Galmi(Hen Clams) Shabu-shabu, grilled hen clams and pork belly