Front view of National Library of Korea building in Seoul

Information Center On North Korea

Information Center On North Korea Seoul: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located within the National Library of Korea, the Information Center On North Korea (ICNK) is an unparalleled destination for those interested in exploring the complexities of North Korea—one of the world’s most secretive nations. With a collection of over 100,000 publications, audiovisual materials, and rare artifacts, the ICNK is a vital hub for researchers, students, and travelers seeking to understand the history, politics, society, and culture of the Korean Peninsula. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, admission, exhibitions, travel tips, accessibility, and nearby attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

For up-to-date details and official guidance, consult resources like the National Library of Korea, Visit Seoul, and NK News.

About the Information Center On North Korea

The ICNK, operated by South Korea’s Ministry of Unification, serves as both an archival resource and an educational platform. Its mission is to collect, curate, and disseminate credible information about North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK), supporting public education, academic research, and informed policy dialogue. The center’s holdings include newspapers such as Rodong Sinmun, political works, children’s literature, textbooks, propaganda materials, and defector testimonies. Positioned on the fifth floor of the National Library of Korea in Seoul, the ICNK is a cornerstone for North Korean studies and inter-Korean understanding.

Mission and Purpose

The ICNK’s primary objectives include:

Educational Outreach: Providing accessible materials and expert guidance to students, educators, and the public.
Research Support: Supplying a comprehensive archive for scholars and journalists.
Public Engagement: Hosting exhibitions, lectures, and seminars to foster informed discussion on North Korean society, human rights, and inter-Korean relations.
Policy Insight: Offering reliable data and analysis for policymakers and analysts, especially in the context of evolving regional security and reunification debates (NK News).

Location, Access, and Visiting Hours

Location: 5th Floor, National Library of Korea, 416 Hangang-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Transit: Easily accessible via Seoul Subway Line 1 or Line 4 (National Library Station); also near Seocho Station on Line 2 (Visit Seoul)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed weekends and public holidays
Admission: Free to all visitors
Requirements: Open to the public, but some materials may require prior permission or identification

Exhibitions and Collections

Permanent Exhibitions

Historical Timelines: Explore the peninsula’s division, the Korean War, and subsequent developments.
Leadership and Ideology: Insight into the Kim dynasty and Juche ideology.
Everyday Life: Multimedia presentations and reconstructions based on defector accounts.
Propaganda and Media: Authentic North Korean posters, periodicals, and broadcasts.

Rotating and Special Exhibitions

Art and Culture: North Korean art, music, and literature, including works by defectors.
Human Rights: Personal stories and international reports on human rights in North Korea.
Inter-Korean Relations: Updates on diplomacy and cross-border exchanges.

Archival Holdings

Print and Multimedia: Tens of thousands of books, periodicals, official documents, and audiovisual content.
Artifacts: Propaganda posters, currency, stamps, and personal items from defectors.
Research Resources: Academic materials and defector testimonies for in-depth study.

Digital Resources and Interactive Experiences

Online Catalog: Digitized archives accessible on-site and, in some cases, remotely.
Virtual Exhibitions: Online seminars and virtual tours.
Interactive Installations: Digital maps, AR experiences, and language tools.

Visitor Experience and Travel Tips

Plan Your Visit: Check the center’s website for current exhibitions, events, and language support availability.
Identification: Bring valid ID for entry and to access restricted materials.
Duration: Allocate 1–2 hours for your visit.
Photography: Restricted in many areas; always confirm with staff.
Combine Your Visit: Explore nearby sites like the National Museum of Korea, War Memorial of Korea, and Itaewon district for a richer experience.
Language Support: Materials are primarily in Korean, but there are resources and staff to assist in English, Chinese, and Japanese. Translation apps like Papago and Google Translate are helpful.
Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms.
Etiquette: Approach all exhibits and discussions respectfully due to the sensitive subject matter.

Facilities and Services

Reading Rooms and Research Spaces: Comfortable areas for browsing; private carrels bookable in advance.
Multimedia Stations: North Korean films, documentaries, and news broadcasts.
Reference Assistance: Staff available for research and translation support.
Digital Access: Some archives are available online via the National Library’s portal (National Library of Korea), with remote access limited in some cases.

Notable Collaborations and Events

The ICNK frequently partners with universities, NGOs, and international organizations to:

Host academic conferences, such as the IPSA World Congress
Organize public forums and panel discussions on Korean Peninsula developments
Present cultural programs, including film screenings and art exhibitions

Safety, Security, and Etiquette

Sensitive Topics: Treat all discussions with tact and respect.
Privacy: Respect the privacy of defectors, researchers, and staff.
Security: Standard bag checks may occur; follow all posted rules and staff instructions.
Prohibited Items: No food, drink, or loud conversations in reading and archival areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the ICNK visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed weekends and national holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free for all visitors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Staff assistance is available; group tours and educational programs can be booked in advance.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is generally not permitted in archival areas; always ask staff first.

Q: What languages are supported?
A: Primarily Korean, with some materials and assistance in English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Q: Is the center accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the center is fully accessible.

Q: How can I access digital resources remotely?
A: Some digital archives are available via the National Library’s portal, with limitations for non-residents.

Nearby Attractions

Practical Tips and Final Advice

Plan Ahead: Email or call the center to confirm the availability of specific materials or to book group visits.
Combine Attractions: Enhance your understanding of Korean history by visiting related museums and cultural sites.
Respect Local Sensitivities: North Korea is a sensitive topic; approach with openness and respect.
Souvenirs: While the ICNK does not have a gift shop, nearby bookstores in Gwanghwamun and Insadong offer relevant materials.

Summary

The Information Center On North Korea in Seoul is a must-visit for anyone seeking nuanced, authoritative information on North Korea. With its extensive archives, expert staff, digital resources, and inclusive facilities, ICNK is a gateway to understanding the complexities of the Korean Peninsula. Pair your visit with nearby historical and cultural sites for a comprehensive exploration of Seoul’s past and present.

For the latest updates, check the National Library of Korea, Visit Seoul, and NK News. Enhance your trip with the Audiala app, and stay connected via social media for news on special events and exhibitions.

References and Official Sources

(Images of the ICNK and National Library are recommended to be included with descriptive alt text such as “Entrance of the Information Center On North Korea at the National Library of Korea” and “Reading room inside the ICNK”)