Tune in: Hyundai Card Music Library opens in Seoul

View of the Hyundai Music Library at night - a glass front building with a geometric design, outdoor seating area and wall in front with images of people
The Moongyu Choi-designed Hyundai Music Library has opened in the heart of Seoul
(Image credit: press)

Music lovers have reason to celebrate, as the Hyundai Card Music Library in Seoul is now officially open. Set on the main street of Itaewon, one of the South Korean capital's most booming and international neighbourhoods, it aims to break the boundaries of the region's existing realm of musical culture. Conceived as a space for up-and-coming talent to practice and perform, it is also home to an extraordinary collection: over 10,000 vinyls and some 3,000 music-related books - 2,600 of which are either extremely rare or out of print. 

Designed by architect Moongyu Choi - with interiors by Gensler - the project embraces the site's existing sloping topography. The architect uses the building's geometry to create different levels and a variety of spaces, which aid circulation and offer different views of the building and surrounding environment. The building frames Seoul's iconic views, such as the Namsan Mountain and the Han River. Additionally, the quiet library area provides a peaceful retreat from the megacity's hustle and bustle, allowing visitors a moment to breathe. 

The Music Library features artwork from international street artists like JR and Vhils in a bid to inspire the musicians who practice and perform in the Understage complex, a large stage setting created specifically for them.

The new vinyl treasure trove is exclusively available to Hyundai Card Holders, and can only be accessed by members and their guests a maximum of eight times per month. The aim is not quantity, but quality as Hyundai Card spokesperson Fiona Bae explains, 'by providing access to an enriched lifestyle, we build an emotional connection with our customers.' Their premise being that by offering their card members new experiences they enhance their lives, and therefore their company and brand.

Interior view of the Hyundai Music Library featuring shelving and display units filled with records, a workspace with Apple Mac computers, DJ decks, an 'ON' sign and glass windows. The upper level can also be seen which features colourful wall art on one wall and another wall that is filled with painted electrical items

The music library houses over 10,000 vinyls and over 3,000 music-related books, 2,600 of which are either extremely rare or out of print

(Image credit: press)

Alternative view of the Hyundai Music Library - a glass front building with a geometric design and outdoor seating area, all encased in a rectangular, metal archway like structure

Designed by Moongyu Choihe, the building is a slim-framed structure that co-exists with the surrounding sloping topography

(Image credit: press)

Interior view of the upper level at the Hyundai Music Library featuring a wall filled with painted electrical items. There is another wall with colourful wall art made up of a face and other elements

Artwork included in the building is designed by international street artists JR and Vhils

(Image credit: press)

Interior view of the Understage area at the Hyundai Music Library featuring a stage, floor space and multiple lights suspended from the ceiling

The Understage provides a space for up-and-coming indie bands in Korea to practice and perform

(Image credit: press)

Interior view of the Hyundai Music Library featuring shelving units filled with records, a workspace with Apple Mac computers, an illuminated 'ON' sign, glass windows and stairs leading to the upper level

The library offers a rich selection of vinyls from throughout the decades, but also a haven of calm from Seoul's busy streets

(Image credit: press)

Interior view of the reception and seating area at the Hyundai Music Library featuring grey flooring, patterned seating, a reception desk with Apple Mac computers, an illuminated 'Reception' sign and a patterned ceiling with black bar spotlights. There is also a bar area with seating

All of the Music Library's interiors and finishes were carried out by Gensler

(Image credit: press)