Most people in a reading relay

The most people in a reading relay is 3,532 and was achieved by Seoul Metropolitan Library and Seoul Outdoor Library (both Republic of Korea) in Seoul, Republic of Korea, on 27 September 2025.

The event was organized as part of a commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation. The title of the literature chosen for the reading relay is translated as ‘Sky, Wind, Stars, and Poetry’ and was written by Yun Dong-ju, one of Korea’s most cherished poets. The organizers wanted to introduce the collection of poems to the public, while bringing the citizens together at Gwanghwamun, a part of the district known as the ‘Heart of Seoul,’ which is not only a historic site but also a central space for civic life and public gatherings. The first participant began reading at 8:22 AM and the last participant finished reading at 6:27 PM. They have surpassed their initial goal of 3,180.

The organizers, Seoul Metropolitan Library and Seoul Outdoor Library, initially set the attempt goal at 3,180 participants, symbolizing the ‘March 1st Independence Movement’ that ignited Korea’s liberation, the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation, and the 80th death anniversary of the poet Yun Dong-ju (1917–1945). However, the pre-registered participants and ones who registered on site were over the goal number, and everyone really wanted to take part in the attempt, so they continued the relay after reaching their initial goal and ended the relay with a total count of 3,532, which is higher by 352.
Every participant and guest speaker who took part in the attempt have joined voluntarily. This event has brought citizens from different regions and of different ages together through a common goal, appreciating local and historical literature, and encouraging growing interest in books and reading activities in time for the ‘season of reading.’