As a special feature for WLIC 2026, the June 2026 edition of IFLA Journal opens with a deep exploration of Korean libraries, past and present.
Written by Vice President of the Korean Library Association Jee Yeon Lee, “Knowledge for life: The evolution of Korea’s library ecosystem” takes us on a journey from pre-modern documentary culture to contemporary frameworks.
Korean libraries, in line with national history and values, are rooted in a profound reverence for knowledge and a solid commitment to its preservation. They are widely recognized as fundamental social institutions that facilitate access to knowledge and promote information equity for all citizens.
Recently, the Korean library ecosystem has reached a critical inflection point, driven by digital transformations and evolving global standards. The core values of digital literacy and information accessibility have been systematically integrated into Korea’s Fourth Comprehensive Library Development Plan and expanding technology-integrated services and fostering digital citizenship have been made a priority.
Nevertheless, Korean libraries are facing challenges brought forward by populations decline and the narrowing of the digital divide. As efforts to establish libraries as “social operating systems” to empower citizens and revitalize communities are ongoing, the Busan World Library and Information Congress will be a significant milestone for sharing Korea’s innovative library models with the international community and exploring avenues for global cooperation.
Download and read the full article ahead of WLIC 2026 to better grasp the conference’s context and ecosystem.