Busan is good

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• Landmark projects spark Busan's cultural renaissance photo taken by Minjae LeeBusan is ushering in a new era of cultural development, marked by a wave of landmark projects to enhance the city's artistic landscape. Leading the transformation is the Busan Concert Hall, the city's first performance venue dedicated exclusively to classical music, which opens on June 20.Located near the North Gate of Busan Citizens Park in Busanjin-gu District, the three-story Busan Concert Hall boasts the largest auditorium outside the capital region. Designed to evoke the image of a ship gliding gracefully across the sea, the building has already received much acclaim. Like the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, the concert hall is considered a work of art in its own right and is expected to become a defining symbol of Busan's cultural identity.The Busan Opera House, a key component of the North Port Redevelopment Project, is scheduled to open in 2027. The five-story opera house will feature an 1,800-seat main  auditorium, a 300-seat theater, exhibition spaces and amenities. It was designed by the award-winning Norwegian architecture firm Snohetta. Now in its seventh year of construction, the project is 55% complete.Meanwhile, Igidae Park, already renowned for its stunning natural beauty, is undergoing a significant transformation into a global ecocultural destination. Since March 2024, the city has been developing plans to infuse the 1.25-million-square-meter park with artistic vibrancy. The initiative aims to position Busan as a leading nature-integrated arts hub. The project divides the park into three zones: Oryukdo Art Center, the Seaside Forest Gallery and the International Art Center.The International Art Center will serve as the centerpiece of this culture complex, anchored by the Art Pavilion. Designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, the pavilion will showcase various contemporary works, from installations to hybrid pieces that blur the lines between art and nature. The Seaside Forest Gallery will host six to seven private galleries exhibiting works by domestic and international artists. At the park's entrance, the Oryukdo Art Center will feature a wooden observation deck and an open-air display of traditional stone artifacts repatriated from Japan.Adding to this cultural resurgence, the construction of the long-anticipated Busan Literary Museum is scheduled to begin in 2027, with completion expected by 2028. Located in the Meeting Plaza of Geumjeong-gu District, the 4,000-square-meter museum will be a milestone achievement for the city's literary community.Busan is reaffirming its commitment to arts and culture through these ambitious projects. The city aims to provide spaces where residents can enrich their lives with cultural experiences while fostering an environment where local creators can flourish. With robust municipal support and an expanding infrastructure, Busan is steadily emerging as a dynamic center of artistic excellence.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>usher: ~을 시작하다, 도입하다 landscape: 풍경 evoke: 떠올리게 하다 glide: 항해하다 gracefully: 우아하게 identity: 정체성 component: 구성 요소 vibrancy: 활력 observation: 관찰 repatriated: ~에서 가져온 resurgence: 재유행 reaffirm: 재차 확인하다 ambitious: 야망있는 foster: 육성하다 municipal: 시 차원의Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Busan impresses `15-minute city ' pioneer  BusanTube, the official YouTube channel of Busan City, recently featured a significant discussion between the Busan mayor and Professor Carlos Moreno, the internationally recognized urbanist behind the "15-minute city" concept. The exchange highlighted Busan's commitment to sustainable urban living and its progress toward a more connected, community-oriented city.A professor at the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne, Mr. Moreno introduced the 15-minute city concept in 2015. He visited Busan in March to observe the city's implementation of the 15-minute city framework. He was especially impressed by the Deullak Nallak children's complexes and the Our Neighborhood ESG Centers. On March 24, the professor met with the Busan mayor at Domoheon to discuss the city's urban planning strategy. Despite the language barrier, their conversation flowed  thanks to expert interpretation by polyglot host Olivia Ih. The discussion focused on the importance of designing people-centered urban spaces and the need for cities to adapt the 15-minute model to local cultural and geographic contexts.Mr. Moreno commended the city's efforts and believes that Busan offers a compelling example of how global urban planning principles can be tailored to create sustainable, inclusive communities. The full conversation is available on BusanTube.◎ BusanTube: https://youtu.be/MJkBE2fLBYc?si=ClVYqmzz0lPqxIwF<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>significant: 중요한 discussion: 논의 urbanist: 도시 계획 전문가 commitment: 노력, 헌신 sustainable: 지속가능한 implementation: 시행 strategy: 전략 interpretation: 통역Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Free outdoor movies at the BCC Last year's movie nights drew large crowds.　Watching a movie under the stars is an essential experience in Busan, the City of Film. Luckily, the Busan Cinema Center offers free outdoor movie nights on select Tuesdays through Aug. 5. Screenings begin at 8 p.m. at the center's Outdoor Theater.　Since 2012, this beloved program has invited Busan residents to experience popular and award-winning films in an open-air setting. The movie showings are held rain or shine, thanks to the theater's iconic cantilevered roof keeping moviegoers nice and dry.　No tickets or reservations are required; just drop by and enjoy the show! Visitors also receive up to four hours of free parking. For more information, visit the Busan Cinema Center homepage.※ June Schedule- 6/10: "Sorry We Missed You"- 6/17: "Every Day a Good Day"- 6/24: "Green Book"Film Schedule : Click

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Enjoy Busan

• Get a jump on the competition and register for the 2025 Night Race in Busan source: www.nightracebusan.krLet the warm breeze and city lights lead the way during one of Busan’s most anticipated summer events. The 2025 Night Race in Busan returns on Aug. 2, lighting up the city with energy, excitement, and thousands of runners moving through the night.Participants will gather at Gwangalli Beach starting at 4 p.m., with the race beginning at 9:30 p.m. The 8.15-kilometer course begins at Gwangalli Beach and finishes at BEXCO, crossing the stunning upper deck of the Gwangandaegyo Bridge.This year’s race is limited to 20,000 participants, open to anyone aged 16 and older on a first-come, first-served basis. Runners will be organized into groups from S to F, each assigned to a designated waiting zone.For an upgraded experience, choose the S Group during registration. S Group runners receive an exclusive kit featuring items like an LED bracelet, themed hairband, and more, plus priority access to the starting line. Registration fees are 50,000 won for Groups A to F and 80,000 won for the S Group.Registration opens at 2 p.m. on June 26 via the YES24 website. Please note that strollers and pets are not permitted on the course. Unlike a traditional race, this is a non-timed event, allowing participants to fully soak in the festival atmosphere and the scenic beauty of Busan by night.The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line. Live entertainment and surprise events will keep the celebration going well into the evening.2025 Night Race in Busan, Aug. 2◎ Website: www.nightracebusan.kr<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>anticipate: 기대하다 assign: 배정하다 exclusive: 독점적인 bracelet: 팔찌 priority: 우선순위 permit: 허가하다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Busan and Olive Young team up in new campaign  Busan City has partnered with Olive Young, Korea’s leading health and beauty retailer, to launch “YOUNG Busan,” a campaign aimed at amplifying the voices of young people and showcasing life in the city from their perspective.The initiative invites residents aged 18 to 39, including international residents, to share personal stories and reflections about living in Busan. Submissions may focus on meaningful experiences, the advantages of life in the city as a young person or reasons for choosing to stay. These stories will contribute to promotional content highlighting Busan’s unique appeal through the lens of its youth.Submissions are open until June 27 and can be made through the Naver Form linked below. Each submission must be at least 300 characters and include a personal story along with at least one photo that illustrates life in Busan. International participants may submit their entries in English.A total of 100 participants will be randomly selected to receive a “BIG Bag,” a surprise gift package valued at 70,000 won. The bag includes items such as local snacks, vitamins, sunscreen and other lifestyle products.In addition, five outstanding entries will be selected by the city to be adapted into visual content as part of Busan’s broader effort to support and promote youth life. These winners will be notified individually in the first week of July. Results of the BIG Bag giveaway will be announced on July 25.◎ Participate in YOUNG Busan Project: https://naver.me/GhSMmI5d<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>amplify: 확대시키다 perspective: 관점 meaningful: 의미있는 submission: 제출품Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Exploring YOLO Galmaetgil ④ YOLO Route 6 source: visitbusanYeongdo Island is fast becoming a must-visit for travelers exploring Busan. Located at the southern edge of the city, this scenic district is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The best way to take it all in? Follow YOLO Galmaetgil Route 6.This 10.9-kilometer trail begins at Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Korea's first drawbridge, built in 1934. Every Saturday at 2 p.m., the bridge lifts in a much-loved ritual that draws crowds.Crossing into Yeongdo, visitors will reach Kangkangee Arts Village, a ship-repair hub turned cultural enclave. The name comes from the "kang-kang" sound of hammers striking metal resonating from the repair docks. Today, murals and art installations mingle with gritty shipyards, giving the area a distinct industrial charm.Continuing south leads to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Once a shantytown, it's now a vibrant community of cafes, galleries and indie bookstores in refurbished homes. The area's colorful buildings, picturesque alleys and ocean vistas are popular shooting locations for K-dramas and films.Further along, 75 Square offers a quiet perch with panoramic views. Take the winding path to Jungri Beach to taste fresh seafood caught by "haenyeo," Korea's traditional women divers.Moving east, stop by the Dongsam-dong Shell Midden Museum, then explore the National Maritime Museum. Finish the hike at Amir Park among the colorful hydrangeas in full bloom.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>draw: 끌어들이다 crowd: 군중 enclave: 독립된 지역 mural: 벽화 shantytown: 판자촌 alley: 골목길 hydrangea: 수국Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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Food

• Seafood and smoke: Japanese fine dining finds a home in Busan 　"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Mori. (Instagram : Click) ■Kaiseki at Mori　Kaiseki is Japan's haute cuisine, a multicourse celebration of seasonal ingredients. Mori, one of Busan's standout kaiseki spots, is a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates local seafood and produce. With experience gained from training in Japan, Chef Wan-gyu Kim's menu is a masterclass in balance and taste.＊Address: 2F #2-4, Pale De Cz, 24 298beon-gil, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu＊Hours: 7 to 11 p.m., closed on Mondays.＊Price: Kaiseki course ￦210,000 per personA dish from the omakase menu at Zero Base.　(Catch Table : Click)■Omakase at Zero Base　Omakase, meaning "I'll leave it up to you," invites diners to entrust their meals to the chef, who creates a personalized experience based on available ingredients.　At Zero Base, diners are in the expert hands of Chef Byeong-chan Yu. Chef Yu's refined techniques and creativity turn local seafood into dishes with a certain "je ne sais quoi" that will have you thinking of them long after your last bite.＊Address: 202, 17 Millak-ro 33beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., closed on Sundays. ＊Price: Omakase ￦150,000 per personSpanish mackerel with pesto from Eutteum Iroribata.　(Instagram : Click) ■Iroribata at Eutteum Iroribata　Iroribata is the art of open-fire grilling over a sunken hearth, which imbues fish, meat and vegetables with mouth-watering, smoky flavor. Chef Eutteum Jung shows off his mastery of this cooking style at his cozy restaurant in Namcheon-dong.　The restaurant bears the imprint of Chef Jung's passion; dark stains on the walls reflect the years spent managing smoke and fire to perfect every dish. His signature dish is a grilled seaperch, a type of fatty white fish prized for its rich, buttery flavor. The row of whole fish roasting in front of the hearth makes an indelible image.＊Address: 1F, 20 Suyeong-ro 408beong-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open Monday to Thursday, 7 to 10 p.m.; Open at 5:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month.＊Price: Omakase ￦100,000 per personVarious skewers at Yakitori Haegong.  (Instagram : Click) ■Yakitori at Yakitori Haegong　There are distinct pleasures one experiences when eating yakitori. The first is visual; watching the chef, fan in hand, labor over glowing embers of charcoal, moving and rotating skewers like a conductor leading an orchestra. The second is gustatory; perfectly cooked meat and vegetables, seasoned with smoke, salt and tare, a sweetned soy sauce.　At Yakitori Haegong, the conductor is Chef Seunghyun Kim. Under his deft hands, all parts of a chicken sing; tender thigh meat, crispy wings, chewy hearts and the crunch of neck cartilage form a symphony of textures and flavors that merits an encore.＊Address: 1F, 30-5 Millakbondong-ro 19beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Closed on Sundays.＊Price: Omakase ￦59,000 per person　※ Note that restaurant information may be subject to change.
• Bite Into Busan ① Meat Lovers  Is Busan good for gourmet explorations? Absolutely! "Bite Into Busan," a new monthly column from Busan is Good, celebrates the city's culinary gems, from beloved local eateries to fine dining establishments. Each featured spot is proudly listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes.This edition highlights three standout destinations, from comforting gukbap and smoky bulgogi to elegant fine dining that captures the essence of Korean cuisine.🍖 Hapcheon Gukbapjip 합천국밥집For a proper introduction to Busan's iconic dish, "dwaeji gukbap," or pork soup with rice, Hapcheon Gukbapjip in the Yongho-dong neighborhood is the place to start. This spot is famous for its clear broth, which neutralizes the strong smell often associated with pork, while delivering deep, savory flavor. Thick slices of tender pork accompany every spoonful.Crafting such a clean-tasting broth requires careful timing. The chefs simmer pork bones just long enough to draw out flavor, then remove them to maintain the soup's clarity. The restaurant also uses the "toryeom" method, where hot broth is poured repeatedly over meat and rice to warm them before serving. Another standout is the "suyuk," boiled pork, served in thick, juicy slices. It's a popular item, so come early as quantities are limited. Note: solo diners are not accommodated during lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.＊Address: 235 Yongho-ro, Nam-gu＊Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 8 p.m. Closed on public holidays.＊Prices: Dwaeji gukbap ￦12,000; suyuk ￦40,000.＊Available: Takeout, foreign language menus.🍖 Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip  광안리 언양불고기 부산집Eonyang bulgogi is a specialty from the Ulsan region, made by finely chopping beef and grilling it over charcoal to create a smoky, rich flavor. What started as a local favorite became nationally known after construction workers building the Gyeongbu Expressway spread the word.Thankfully, Busanites don't need to leave town to enjoy this beloved dish. Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip, affectionately known as "Busanjip," has been serving the Ulsan specialty for over 30 years. The restaurant uses only premium Korean beef and serves organic produce from its farm. Once grilled, the lightly marinated bulgogi releases a mouthwatering aroma, and its tender texture and subtle seasoning let the beef's natural richness shine.The menu also includes sirloin, ribs and skirt steak. Diners also swear by the "yuk sashimi," a Korean beef tartare.＊Address: 32 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ＊Prices: Bulgogi (200g) ￦39,000.＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.🍖 Sogonggan 소공간Sogonggan, which can mean "small space" or "beef space," offers a refined, intimate dining experience centered around Hanwoo, Korean beef. This fine-dining restaurant reinterprets traditional Korean flavors with elegant presentation and seasonal flair.The restaurant offers multicourse prix fixe lunch and dinner menus that showcase the highest-grade, premium Korean beef. Diners can enjoy a rib eye or tenderloin steak and a bowl of "gomtang," a hearty beef-bone broth. Seasonal appetizers and desserts celebrate the best local ingredients, ensuring each visit feels fresh and new.Guests can bring their preferred wine, whisky or sake to pair with their meals and pay a corkage fee. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly menu, tableware, and high chairs. To personalize the experience, the restaurant encourages guests to share dietary restrictions or allergies when booking.＊Address: 4F, 47 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 298beon-gil, Haeundae-gu ＊Hours: Noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.＊Menu: Dinner 11 Course ￦182,000 per person. Lunch 8 Course ￦92,000 per person＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.※ Please note that information, such as a restaurant's address, hours of operation, menu, and contact details, may be subject to change.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>exploration: 탐험 culinary: 미식의 gem: 보석 iconic: 대표적인 broth: 육수 neutralize: 중화하다 savory: 풍미 있는 clarity: 맑음 accommodate: 수용하다 specialty: 특별 요리 charcoal: 숯 tender: 부드러운 subtle: 옅은 intimate: 친밀한 reinterpret: 재해석하다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• Busan on a plate: 3 must-try restaurants 　Is Busan good for gourmet explorations? Absolutely! 　"Bite Into Busan," a new monthly column from Busan is Good, celebrates the city's culinary gems, from beloved local eateries to fine dining establishments. Each featured spot is proudly listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes.　This edition highlights three standout destinations, from comforting gukbap and smoky bulgogi to elegant fine dining that captures the essence of Korean cuisine. Try the suyuk, thick slices of boiled pork, at Hapcheon Gukbapjip■ Hapcheon Gukbapjip 합천국밥집　For a proper introduction to Busan's iconic dish, "dwaeji gukbap," or pork soup with rice, Hapcheon Gukbapjip in the Yongho-dong neighborhood is the place to start. This spot is famous for its clear broth, which neutralizes the strong smell often associated with pork, while delivering deep, savory flavor. Thick slices of tender pork accompany every spoonful.　Crafting such a clean-tasting broth requires careful timing. The chefs simmer pork bones just long enough to draw out flavor, then remove them to maintain the soup's clarity. The restaurant also uses the "toryeom" method, where hot broth is poured repeatedly over meat and rice to warm them before serving. 　Another standout is the "suyuk," boiled pork, served in thick, juicy slices. It's a popular item, so come early as quantities are limited. Note: solo diners are not accommodated during lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.＊Address: 235 Yongho-ro, Nam-gu＊Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 8 p.m. Closed on public holidays.＊Prices: Dwaeji gukbap ￦12,000; suyuk ￦40,000.＊Available: Takeout, foreign language menus.The finely chopped meat at Eonyang Bulgogi captures the smoky flavors from a charcoal grill■ Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip  광안리 언양불고기 부산집　Eonyang bulgogi is a specialty from the Ulsan region, made by finely chopping beef and grilling it over charcoal to create a smoky, rich flavor. What started as a local favorite became nationally known after construction workers building the Gyeongbu Expressway spread the word.　Thankfully, Busanites don't need to leave town to enjoy this beloved dish. Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip, affectionately known as "Busanjip," has been serving the Ulsan specialty for over 30 years. The restaurant uses only premium Korean beef and serves organic produce from its farm. Once grilled, the lightly marinated bulgogi releases a mouthwatering aroma, and its tender texture and subtle seasoning let the beef's natural richness shine.　The menu also includes sirloin, ribs and skirt steak. Diners also swear by the "yuk sashimi," a Korean beef tartare.＊Address: 32 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ＊Prices: Bulgogi (200g) ￦39,000.＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.Sogonggan's buckwheat noodles and hanwoo steak are perfect dinner companions■ Sogonggan 소공간　Sogonggan, which can mean "small space" or "beef space," offers a refined, intimate dining experience centered around Hanwoo, Korean beef. This fine-dining restaurant reinterprets traditional Korean flavors with elegant presentation and seasonal flair.　The restaurant offers multicourse prix fixe lunch and dinner menus that showcase the highest-grade, premium Korean beef. Diners can enjoy a rib eye or tenderloin steak and a bowl of "gomtang," a hearty beef-bone broth. Seasonal appetizers and desserts celebrate the best local ingredients, ensuring each visit feels fresh and new.　Guests can bring their preferred wine, whisky or sake to pair with their meals and pay a corkage fee. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly menu, tableware, and high chairs. To personalize the experience, the restaurant encourages guests to share dietary restrictions or allergies when booking.＊Address: 4F, 47 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 298beon-gil, Haeundae-gu ＊Hours: Noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.＊Menu: Dinner 11 Course ￦182,000 per person. Lunch 8 Course ￦92,000 per person＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.※ Please note that information, such as a restaurant's address, hours of operation, menu, and contact details, may be subject to change.

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Life

• Busan offers up to 500,00 won in education support for multi-child families  To help ease the financial burden of education, Busan City and the Busan Metropolitan Office of Education are providing a subsidy to families with two or more children. The program is open to all eligible residents, regardless of income or property holdings.To qualify, families must have at least one child born between 2007 and 2018 and must have been registered residents of Busan for at least three months. Households with two children will receive 300,000 won, while those with three or more children will receive 500,000 won. The subsidy is issued in the form of Dongbaek Jeon Points, Busan’s local currency.The points can be used for educational expenses at various child-related facilities, including local bookstores, study cafes, arts and sports academies, print shops and swimming pools that offer survival swimming lessons. In a special exception, online purchases are permitted at four designated retailers: Kyobo Bookstore, Aladin, Youngpoong Bookstore and Yes24.To support the value of public education, the subsidy cannot be used at private tutoring academies for core subjects such as Korean, English, or math.Applications are open until 6 p.m. on Dec. 12 and can be submitted through the Dongbaek Jeon mobile app. To apply, navigate to: Dongbaek Jeon App > Policy Fund Application > Multi-Child Education Support Points.Subsidies are paid immediately upon approval if all children are registered under the same household. If children are registered separately, additional verification of family relationship is required, which may result in a processing delay.Applicants without a mobile device under their name or using a basic cell phone can call the Busan Multi-Child Education Support Points Call Center at 1660-2206 for assistance.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>ease: 완화시키다 financial: 재정적인 burden: 부담 subsidy: 보조금 eligible: 자격이 있는 income: 소득 property: 자산 value: 가치 immediately: 즉시 approval: 승인 seperately: 각각Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Discount toll period on the Gwangandaegyo Bridge extended by one hour source: visitbusan Drivers crossing the Gwangandaegyo Bridge during the morning rush hour can now enjoy extended toll discount hours. Since May 26, the discount period has been extended an hour earlier, and now runs from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.The discount also applies during the evening rush hour, from 6 to 8 p.m.No pre-registration is needed, as the toll discount is automatically applied to all vehicles crossing the bridge. The discounted toll is 500 won for standard vehicles and 800 won for large and special-purpose vehicles. The toll for compact vehicles (under 1,000cc) is always 500 won.Last February, the Busan Infrastructure Corporation launched the Smart Tolling System on the Gwangandaegyo Bridge. It uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition to identify a vehicle by its license plate and automatically charges tolls. For vehicles already equipped with Hi-Pass, the system will continue to operate as usual. Those without Hi-Pass can still use the Smart Tolling System by registering their payment information on the Gwangandaegyo Bridge website. ◎ Gwangandaegyo Bridge website: https://www.bisco.or.kr/gwanganbridge/<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>extend: 연장하다 toll: 요금 automatically: 자동적으로 vehicle: 차량 license plate: 차량 번호판 equipped with: ~가 장착된Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Busan offers free pet insurance for adopted dogs  Busan is providing one year of free pet insurance for dogs adopted in 2025.The insurance covers 70% of expenses for surgery, hospitalization or medical treatment, with an annual limit of 10 million won. It also includes liability coverage of up to 10 million won in cases where the dog causes harm to a person or another pet. While the standard annual premium is typically around 150,000 won, adopters will receive full coverage at no cost for the first year. After the initial year, they may choose to renew the insurance at their own expense. To qualify, adopters must meet the following conditions:-Adopt a stray dog in 2025 from one of Busan’s six participating animal protection centers or two dedicated adoption centers.-Ensure the dog is microchipped for identification.[Participating Animal Protection Centers]-부산동물보호센터/ Busan Animal Protection Center-(사)유기동물 및 동물보호관리협회/ Association for Stray Animal and Animal Protection Management-(사)동부유기동물보호협회/ Dongbu Stray Animal Protection Association-청조동물병원/ Cheongjo Animal Hospital-(사)하얀비둘기/ White Dove Association-동구종합동물병원/ Dong-gu General Animal Hospital[Dedicated Stray Animal Adoption Centers]-부산시 반려동물 복지문화센터/ Busan Companion Animal Welfare and Culture Center-해운대구 유기동물입양센터/ Haeundae-gu Stray Animal Adoption CenterTo apply for the program, pet owners must visit the center where they adopted their dog. More details can be found at (https://www.busan.go.kr/nhot/1681250).<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>insurance: 보험 adopt: 입양하다 surgery: 수술 hospitalization: 입원 annual: 연간의 expense: 비용Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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• Yeongdo: Shipyards and street art 　Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources and cultural offerings, featuring scenic beachside walks and gentle mountain climbs.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Vessels entering and departing Busan Port add to Yeongdo's unique vibe.  　Yeongdo Island is fast becoming a must-visit for travelers exploring Busan. Located at the southern edge of the city, this scenic district is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The best way to take it all in? Follow YOLO Galmaetgil Route 6.The weekly lifting of Yeongdodaegyo Bridge never gets old. 　This 10.9-kilometer trail begins at Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Korea's first drawbridge, built in 1934. Every Saturday at 2 p.m., the bridge lifts in a much-loved ritual that draws crowds.　Crossing into Yeongdo, visitors will reach Kangkangee Arts Village, a ship-repair hub turned cultural enclave. The name comes from the "kang-kang" sound of hammers striking metal resonating from the repair docks. Today, murals and art installations mingle with gritty shipyards, giving the area a distinct industrial charm.The Jeoryeong Coastal Walk leads to Taejongdae, another beloved area on Busan's southern coast. 　Continuing south leads to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Once a shantytown, it's now a vibrant community of cafes, galleries and indie bookstores in refurbished homes. The area's colorful buildings, picturesque alleys and ocean vistas are popular shooting locations for K-dramas and films.The observatory at 75 Square is a great place to catch your breath and enjoy the view.　Further along, 75 Square offers a quiet perch with panoramic views. Take the winding path to Jungri Beach to taste fresh seafood caught by "haenyeo," Korea's traditional women divers.　Moving east, stop by the Dongsam-dong Shell Midden Museum, then explore the National Maritime Museum. Finish the hike at Amir Park among the colorful hydrangeas in full bloom.YOLO Guide : Click
• Walking to the end of the world Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources, featuring long walks along beaches and gentle climbs up mountain slopes. 　The routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil are especially popular. These routes let hikers experience quaint villages, historical sites and more.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. 　Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.■ YOLO Route 5　Busan is where the mountains meet the sea, but few places show off that beauty like YOLO Galmaetgil Route 5. This stunning 4.5-kilometer trail, also known as the Igidae Coastal Walkway, winds along rocky cliffs and offers uninterrupted views of the ocean.　Starting from Oryukdo Ferry Dock and ending at Dongsaengmal Trail, the path is carved into ancient volcanic rock, formed by lava over 80 million years ago. It's rugged, narrow and often steep - so leave the sandals at home and lace up those hiking boots.　Before you hit the trail, explore nearby attractions like the Oryukdo Skywalk, where glass flooring creates the illusion of walking on water. Oryukdo Sunrise Park is just uphill, offering fresh breezes and gorgeous views to get you in the hiking mood.　The trail itself is full of drama: Jagged cliffs, sea-sculpted rock formations and glimpses of wildlife. The most prominent rock formations are Nongbawi, named for its resemblance to a stack of Korean chest drawers known as "nong," and Chimabawi, so named because of its similarity to the elegant lines of a Hanbok skirt, or "chima."　Midway, you'll reach Eoul Madang, a scenic rest stop with views of Gwangandaegyo Bridge and Haeundae. From there, the path flattens out and leads to Igidae Gureumdari Bridge, "Cloud Bridge," a gently swaying footbridge that feels like floating in the sky.　Finish at Dongsaengmal Observatory, where modern skyscrapers and wild nature meet. Grab a seat, catch your breath and enjoy the view.  One of the rewards of hiking YOLO Route 5 is the ocean vista from Oryukdo Sunrise Park.Igidae's famous Nongbawi rocks, resembling a stack of dressers.Natural stairs made out of volcanic rock.YOLO Route 5 is the best way to enjoy Busan's ocean views.A photozone at Dongsaengmal Observatory.YOLO Guide : Click 
• No pain, no gain on the 'Secret Coffee Road' 　Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources, featuring long walks along beaches and gentle climbs up mountain slopes. 　The routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil are especially popular. These routes let hikers experience quaint villages, historical sites and more.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. 　Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.The coastal walking trail from Orangdae Park to Ananti at Busan Cove is an ideal place for a spring outing. The smooth path, endless blue sea and the sound of crashing waves make for a perfect stroll.■ YOLO Route 2　In Korean, the expression "go jin gam rae (고진감래)" can be translated as "sweetness after bitterness." Like the adage "no pain, no gain," "go jin gam rae" expresses the wisdom that one must endure a bitter hardship before a sweet reward.　The notion of "sweetness after bitterness" applies to many aspects of life and perfectly describes YOLO Route 2. Also known as the "Secret Coffee Road," YOLO Route 2 is a 16-kilometer, physically demanding course with a cumulative elevation of 580 meters. Hikers who brave the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and charming coffee houses.　The course starts at Gijang-gun County Office, a 10-minute walk from Gijang Station on the Donghae Line (exit 2). Following the Galmaetgil signs through Woosin Neoville Apartment Complex, trekkers encounter the first "bitter" challenge, a steep 230-meter climb up Bongdaesan Mountain. At the summit, visitors are greeted by views of the Gijang coastline and the East Sea.　Descending from Bongdaesan, the trail leads to Woljeon Village, home to the picturesque Jukseong Catholic Church. Though it looks like a place of worship, this iconic landmark and popular tourist attraction was originally built as a set for the television series "Dream" (2009).　Another hike up Bongdaesan leads to Daebyeonhang Port, where the "sweet" part of the route begins. From here, the route transforms into a scenic coastal walk and earns its "Secret Coffee Road" moniker. The course is dotted with an array of coffee shops. From luxurious cafes to cozy breweries, trekkers can find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee.Cafes along YOLO Route 2 feature great ocean views.Take a rest at the Songiljeong Pavilion at Songjeong Beach.YOLO Guide : Click

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