My little coffee shop-14

How many book stores are there in your country?

 In South Korea, one of the most digitalized countries in the world, bookstores have been steadily disappearing since 2000. This isn’t just because people are reading on their mobile devices, but also because many prefer watching videos over reading. However, those who still favor physical books have created their own independent bookstores, carefully curating selections that reflect their personal tastes. Despite this, increasing revenue remains challenging. As a result, many of these bookstores have evolved into cultural spaces, often including cafés or hosting special events like guest author talks. 

Space

Moire Bookstore is located in the ‘JangAn-SaengHwal’ building. JangAn is the name of the neighborhood where the building stands, while SaengHwal means “life.” This unique building was developed by Ibooky, a public rental housing agency. Ibooky is not only focused on real estate but also on fostering social connections by linking spaces with people. As a result, most of the book collections at Moire revolve around the theme of space—covering topics like houses, neighborhoods, and cities. 

Creativity

As I mentioned before, most bookstores today operate two or three businesses simultaneously. While many bookstores host typical events like author signings or book clubs, Moire Bookstore offers unique programs such as scriptwriting for theater, local archiving, and learning how to write exhibition critiques. These programs are led by active artists and professionals in their fields. Participants are often asked to purchase specific books recommended by the instructors. Some programs require a tuition fee, but many are free, supported by Seoul City or various foundations.

I participated in a local archiving project called ‘The Usual Discovery.’ Three recommended books helped me understand the perspectives needed for the project. Although the manuscript still needs proofreading, it was a creatively refreshing experience over the course of a month. 

Socializing

 The entrance to Moire Bookstore can be a bit tricky to find. You need to enter the café on the first floor, turn right, and pass by the tables to find the stairs leading to the second floor. But once you slide open the door, a different world unfolds. People are engaged in various activities at the central table, and the books on the shelves are organized by theme.

As you turn the corner, you’ll find unique books published by independent publishers that don’t have ISBNs. You can browse, sit down to read, or engage in small talk with other visitors or the manager. I often order a 1-liter coffee from the café and bring it up to the bookstore to quench my thirst. Time flies whenever I’m here.  

Information

Moire(Muare) Book store

Official SNS

https://www.instagram.com/moire_books

Theme

space, socializing

Opening Hours(Closed on Monday)

12:00~19:00(Tuesday to Sunday)
*it will be closed on September. 02 to September 18 due to renovation.

Address

Seoul Dongdaemun-gu Jangan-dong 459-5, 2nd floor.

JangAn-SaengHwal cafe’

Official SNS

https://www.instagram.com/jangan_life_cafe

Opening Hours

10:00~20:00(Monday to Sunday)
* it’s schedule will be changed on national holiday, thus recommend to check it’s instagram. 

Price range

coffee : 1,800~4,500
Other beverages : 3,500~4,600

Bakery
Scone or Cookie : 3,000~4,000

Address

Seoul Dongdaemun-gu Jangan-dong 459-5, 1st floor.

Creative commons link

EZsPEDIA © 2024 by YUNMI LEE is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND