The Largest Repository of Rare and Old Books Among University Libraries in KoreaThe Most Extensive Repository of Modern Libraries in KoreaThe Most Extensive Repository of Western Rare Books in KoreaPark Wansuh Archive to Be Established in the Second Half of 2025

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Main Collections

SNU People Archives

Various archival materials curated, studied, and preserved by the SNU Library

Newspapers

Various news related materials such as newspapers from late 19C to early 20C (e.g., Hanseong sunbo), the Korean Federal Register from 1895 to 1910, and newspaper clippings from the Keijō Imperial University Law School

Pictorial Collections

Photography and art books assorted by the SNU Library

Magazines

Magazines published in Korea and abroad from the Englitenment period to post-liberation

Ttakjibons

Commercial Korean fiction published in in the early 20th century using movable metal type, with vivid, colorful covers resembling ttakji(ddakji)

Cultural Heritage

A diverse collection of cultural heritage including state-designated heritage, state-registered cultural heritage and UNESCO Memory of the World

Rubbings

Rubbings of various inscriptions held by the SNU Library

Ilsa Collection

Collection donated by Bang, Jong-hyeon (1905–1952), who served as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at SNU, with over 4,500 highly valuable books for research in Korean language and literature

Maps

Collection of old and modern maps from Korea, China, and Japan

Garam Collection

Collection of Lee, Byeong-gi (1891–1967), once a professor of the College of Liberal Arts at SNU, with approximately 3,500 books of high academic value in Korean literature and bibliography

Western Rare Books

SNU Library offers the most extensive collection of Western rare books in Korea

Western Books on Korea

Western rare and old books on Korea held by the SNU Library

Simak Collection

Collection donated by Lee, Sung-nyong (1908-1994), once a professor of the College of Liberal Arts at SNU, with over 9,000 highly valuable books for research in Korean language

Ilseok Collection

Collection donated by Lee, Hui-seung (1896-1989), once a professor of the College of Liberal Arts at SNU, with over 6,400 highly valuable books for research in Korean language and literature

Sangbaek Collection

Collection of Lee, Sang-baek (1903-1966), once a professor of the College of Liberal Arts at SNU, with approximately 4,500 books of high academic value in sociology, history and bibliography

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SNU P. Archive

Rare Books

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Exhibitions

[Past Exhibit] An Invitation to Western Rare Books: From Plato to Goethe

Date: Feb 10, 2025 – Apr 11, 2025
Location: Kwanjeong Gallery, 1st Floor, Kwanjeong Building
Content: Special exhibition of Western Rare Books
Note: We will extend the exhibition until Tuesday, May 6

[Past Exhibit] Small Exhibition: Yi Sang as a Poet, Painter and Architect

Date: Dec 9, 2024 – Jan 31, 2025
Location: Rare and Old Book Collections (6F, Central Library)
Contents: Yi Sang special exhibition commemorating the 90th anniversary of Ogamdo's publication

Shabook Shabook

[Shabook Shabook] Into a Space for Communication and Empathy – Daishin Financial Group-SNU HERITAGE LOUNGE

Did you know that SNU Library is evolving from a solemn hall of knowledge into a vibrant community space in daily life?
The beloved Kwanjeong Building, cherished by SNU students, is being transformed with the creation of the 'HERITAGE LOUNGE'—a modern space for learning, open discussion, and cozy relaxation.
This renovation of the 2nd floor of the Kwanjeong Building is made possible by the generous donation from Daishin Financial Group and the beautiful challenge undertaken by the SNU Library.
Let’s explore this renovation with the explanation of the project’s architect, Cho Yoonhee!

[Shabook Shabook] A Space Embracing ‘VERITAS LUX MEA’ - SNU HERITAGE LIBRARY

Did you know that Seoul National University Library is creating 'Korea’s largest Oldbook Collection Visible Storage,‘ the ‘SNU People Archives,’ and the ‘Via Lucis’?
In response to the high demand with over 1.2 million cases per year for the use of rare and old book collections content, the library is establishing the ‘HERITAGE LIBRARY’ to ensure the safe preservation and public sharing of its recorded cultural heritage.
Join architect Kim Youngsoo, who led the design of this space, and explore how the 4th floor of the Main Building is being renovated!