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News
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Busan wants international students to come and pursue their dreams!
Busan is now in a stronger position to attract international students who major in advanced industries. On April 3, the city announced its selection for the Regional Specialized Visa Pilot Program, an initiative led by the Ministry of Justice. The program allows local governments to flexibly adjust visa requirements according to their industrial landscape and workforce needs. The Ministry of Justice will decide on the proposed changes to visa issuance.Under the program, Busan can lay a firm groundwork for cultivating global talents while driving industrial growth. International students will be eligible for mid-semester internships, and visa requirements will be eased, especially for those studying in key fields like semiconductors, batteries and automotive manufacturing. To infuse future industries with the fresh perspective and skills of global talents, Busan aims to attract 1,000 international students within 2 years. This effort will be supported by close collaboration with local universities and businesses, creating an environment where international students can thrive and potentially settle in the city. It will also align with national initiatives such as the Ministry of Education’s Regional Innovation System & Education (RISE) Project and the GLOCAL University Project. At a time when local universities are facing declining enrollment, the initiative is expected to stabilize the student population and revitalize the regional economy by providing comprehensive support to international students living, studying, and working in Busan. <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>flexibly: 융통성있게 adjust: 조정하다 workforce: 노동력 groundwork: 기반 cultivate: 구축하다 infuse: 불어넣다 perspective: 관점 align with: ~에 맞춰 조정하다 declining: 감소하는 enrollment: 등록 stabilize: 안정시키다 revitalize: 재활성화시키다 comprehensive: 포괄적인 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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How Busan became a model city for raising children
In recent years, Busan Metropolitan City has taken decisive steps to ensure the health and happiness of its youngest citizens. Domestic and international organizations are taking notice.The 2024 Child Well-Being Index, a study by Save the Children and the Institute of Social Welfare of Seoul National University, found that Busan children had the highest quality of life overall compared to children in other cities.Busan outperformed national averages in eight categories, and recorded the highest scores in health, children's relationships and residential environment.The achievement came five years after Busan became the first metropolis in Korea to be officially recognized as a UNICEF Child-Friendly City. This certification is awarded to cities that protect and advance children's rights through policies and programs based on the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child.🍀Family-focused policiesSupport for children and their families is a top priority under the mayoral administration. Since 2022, City Hall has implemented several policies to ensure parents have the means and support to raise children.One flagship initiative is the "Aeji-jungji" program. Launched in January 2024 in partnership with the Busan Office of Education, Aeji-jungji is the nation's first integrated "edu-care" system, which expands and enhances public education and childcare.Services include specialized care for infants under 18 months, at-home part-time care and extended operating hours at daycare centers and kindergartens. Emergency childcare is also available during nights and holidays. In addition, when children are hospitalized, caregivers can be dispatched to treatment centers to provide support in place of guardians.Busan also has various programs to help ease the financial burden of raising children. The city provides up to 100,000 won per month to children at daycare facilities to help pay for extracurricular activities and field trips.Multi-child families can also receive 300,000 to 500,000 won to support education fees through the Dongbaek Jeon local payment system.In addition, City Hall is revising ordinances to include services for international residents to ensure all children are supported.🍀A space for kids to learn and playIn response to the growing trend of "no-kids zones," Busan has introduced "welcome kids zones" across the city. These thoughtfully designed, family-friendly spaces offer fun outings for all ages.Central to this response is Deullak Nallak, a network of children's complexes that offer cultural, digital and educational play-based learning opportunities.There are 79 Deullak Nallak centers operational citywide, with another 26 under construction. Busan expects to open 200 in total by 2026.A key pillar of Busan's 15-minute city project, the award-winning Deullak Nallak complexes are conveniently located in public spaces like libraries, cultural centers and community service facilities.Each complex features a mix of media exhibitions, digital experiences, reading areas and indoor playgrounds. Children can explore technology, engage with native-English speakers and enjoy active play in specially equipped areas.🍀Young journalists to cover BusanBusan also empowers children to share their perspectives through journalism. The "Busan City Children Reporters," a group of around 200 elementary students in grades 4 to 6, will begin field reporting in May.These young reporters will cover local events, festivals, performances and exhibitions, developing media literacy and writing skills along the way. Their work will be published on the city's kids website, and outstanding articles will appear in the print edition of Busan Children's Newspaper, launching in June.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>decisive: 결정적인 outperform: 능가하다 residential: 거주하기 좋은 achievement: 성과 right: 권리 implement: 시행하다 extended: 연장된 dispatch: 인력을 배치하다 extracurricular: 정규 교과 외 pillar: 기둥 literacy: 문해력 outstanding: 뛰어난Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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City Hall publishes AI-translated press releases
Busan City has launched an AI-translated English news service, aimed at global audiences, allowing them to stay updated on the city’s major initiatives and events. This initiative reflects on the city’s continuous efforts to create an English-friendly environment and its commitment to actively enhancing Busan’s global appeal.The English news service utilizes ChatGPT to translate Korean-written press materials into English. The translated news will be available on the city’s English website. Readers can compare the translation with the original texts, as each post provides both versions. The translations ensure content accuracy by adopting the official English names of attractions, figures, and organizations. Implementing this official English translation service marks a remarkable milestone for Busan in its journey to become an English-friendly city, as it helps build a repository of promotional materials in English and enhances press release methods for global audiences.Visit the city’s English website to access translated news and updates through the AI-translated Press Releases directory.◎ English Press Releases: https://www.busan.go.kr/eng/ai-translated-press-releases<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>launch: 출시하다 audience: 청중 initiative: 계획, 공약 continuous: 지속적인 translate: 번역하다 accuracy: 정확성 repository: 저장소Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Enjoy Busan
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Spend a spring day at Busan's urban parks
photo taken by Min Jae LeeThe warm sunshine and cool weather in May entice people of all ages to step out from the small confines of their homes, schools and offices. Thankfully, Busan has a wealth of natural resources where people can enjoy the great outdoors. From coastal walkways to mountain paths, the city has many places for citizens to commune with nature.At this time of year, locals flock to lush urban parks to enjoy picnics and cultural events in the fresh air. Two of the most popular are Busan Citizens Park and Haeundae Arboretum, two reclaimed spaces that have transformed from desolate areas into vibrant oases, offering greenery, history and culture. From urban wastelands to beloved urban playgrounds, Busan Citizens Park and Haeundae Arboretum are prime examples of how sustainable development benefits people and the land.🌲 Busan Citizens ParkLocated in Busanjin-gu District, this expansive park sits on the former site of the now-closed U.S. military base, Camp Hialeah. Opened in 2014, the park is divided into five themed zones: Memory, Culture, Pleasure, Nature and Participation.Highlights include the sprawling Hialeah Lawn Plaza, a vast green lawn over what used to be a landing strip; the Participation Forest, which features nearly 60,000 citizen-donated trees; and the 25-meter tall Haneulbit Waterfall fountain.Visitors are now permitted to set up small tents or sunshades between May and October (except on Mondays), provided they do not exceed 2.5 meters by 3 meters in size and remain open on two sides. However, stabilizing accessories, such as stakes, poles or ropes, are prohibited. Mats are permitted year-round.From May 2 to 6, Dasom Square will host the 5th Busan Spring Flower Exhibition, showcasing stunning floral displays and hands-on urban agriculture experiences. Visitors can also participate in a national flower tea competition, a floral design contest and a romantic proposal event.Finally, Citizens Park is home to the Busan Concert Hall, the city's first performance venue dedicated to classical music. It officially opens on June 20 and features a state-of-the-art auditorium and Busan's first pipe organ.＊Address: 73 Simingongwon-ro, Busanjin-gu＊Hours: Open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight.🌲 Haeundae ArboretumOnce a landfill, this now-thriving ecological park in Haeundae-gu District opened in May 2021. It spans about 415,000 square meters and is home to over 187,000 trees and 207,000 plants. The park will expand an additional 213,000 square meters by the end of this year.Visitors can enjoy a stroll in various themed sections, such as the Rose Garden, the Wall Garden, the Herb Garden and the Ecological Wetland.While the Mini Zoo is temporarily closed until June, sheep and goats freely roam the park grounds, grazing on grass and interacting with visitors. When the zoo reopens, donkeys and ostriches will be added to the arboretum's animal population.Parkgoers can also explore the grounds via shuttle, which runs from 10 a.m. to 5:10 p.m. between March and October. Each 14-passenger shuttle is free of charge and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.In addition, the arboretum has sports facilities available for use. Residents can reserve courts or fields to play badminton, pickleball, gateball, basketball, soccer, futsal, foot volleyball and tennis via Busan's integrated online booking system (reserve.busan.go.kr).Note: The park does not have food or beverage facilities, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own. Pets (except service dogs), bicycles, kickboards and scooters are not allowed in the park. Collecting plants, soil, insects or other flora and fauna is strictly prohibited. ＊Address: 77 Seokdae-dong, Haeundae-gu＊Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entry is at 4:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.＊Admission: Free <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>coastal: 해안의 commune: (자연을) 가까이하다 flock: 떼를 지어 가다 arboretum: 수목원 reclaimed: 재생의 expansive: 탁 트인 sprawling: 아주 넓은 lawn: 잔디 exceed: 초과하다 state-of-the-art: 최신의 landfill: 쓰레기 매립지 temporarily: 일시적으로 facility: 시설 prohibit: 금지하다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Exploring YOLO Galmaetgil ③ YOLO Route 5
photo taken by Min Jae LeeBusan'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 5Busan 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. <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>quaint: 예스러운 historical: 역사적인 rugged: 바위 투성이의 narrow: 좁은 steep: 가파른 trail: 길 jagged: 삐죽삐죽한 prominent: 유명한 resemblance: 유사함Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Celebrate Children’s Day at the 2025 Busan Wheat Festival
The 2025 Busan Wheat Festival will be held from May 5 to 6 at Hwamyeong Eco Park. This festival offers a chance to savor wheat-based dishes while celebrating the historic significance of the Gupo neighborhood in Buk-gu District, once a major hub for wheat collection and distribution after the Korean War.The event centers around two main concepts: The Wheat Lounge at Hwamyeong Auto Campground and the Picnic Lounge in the Lotus Pond Area.At the Wheat Lounge, festivalgoers can enjoy food from local restaurants and purveyors, such as pizza, pasta, ramyeon and Busan’s iconic milmyeon. Visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in live performances by the Buk-gu Children’s Choir, local musicians and a talk show.The Picnic Lounge offers interactive experiences. Highlights include Wheat Land, where visitors can participate in hands-on activities like pizza-making, soap-making and decorating straw hats; Wheat Academy, where visitors can gain insights into the fascinating world of wheat-based creations like sourdough bread and beer; and Wheat Fence, a marketplace, exhibition and busking zone.In addition, visitors with a sweet tooth can stop by Busan Eat Day, which will showcase popular local dessert shops. Cinephiles will enjoy the Cinema Food Terrace, where Michelin-starred chefs will lead culinary discussions inspired by food in famous movies.All food will be served in reusable containers to support the city's green campaign. For more details, please visit the official Busan Wheat Festival website.※ 2025 Busan Wheat Festival, May 5-6◎ Hwamyeong Eco Park (Auto Campground and Lotus Area): 1718-17 Hwamyeong-dong, Buk-gu◎ Website: festivalbusan.com/wheat<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>wheat: 밀 distribution: 유통 choir: 합창단 interactive: 상호적인 culinary: 요리의 reusable: 재 사용 가능한Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Food
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Where to eat: 'Taste of Busan 2025'
Busan Metropolitan City has released "Taste of Busan 2025," the definitive guide for gourmands seeking authentic dining experiences in the city. Now in its 23rd year, "Taste of Busan" highlights the city's most beloved restaurants and cafes. Selections are based on on-site evaluations and expert recommendations from industry professionals, food columnists and influencers, alongside data from local hygiene departments and online and offline reviews. The guide is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Notably, 20 of these establishments are also included in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025. "Taste of Busan" provides a comprehensive overview of dining options throughout the city, from casual barbecue spots to sophisticated French-inspired fine dining restaurants. Haeundae-gu and Suyeong-gu districts, which form the epicenter of Busan's tourism, boast the most selections, with 29 and 22 eateries, respectively. "Taste of Busan 2025" is available online via the city's official tourism portal Visit Busan, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, train stations, hotels and Gimhae International Airportlink : click
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Find your next favorite restaurant with ‘Taste of Busan 2025’
source: Taste of Busan 2025Busan City has released the 23rd edition of “Taste of Busan,” an annual showcase of the city’s favorite restaurants, bakeries and cafes. The free guidebook is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese.The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Each entry includes photos, menu highlights and other essential information. The guidebook also contains interviews with renowned local chefs, who share their insights on the local food scene and their culinary philosophies. More than just a list of restaurants, “Taste of Busan” introduces the origins and unique aspects of 13 local dishes, such as Dongnae pajeon (seafood and green onion pancake), milmyeon (cold wheat noodles), and dwaeji gukbap (pork soup and rice). It also highlights the best restaurants serving these traditional dishes, inviting readers to explore the rich world of local gourmet experiences. Notably, this edition introduces QR codes that link to multilingual menus at 50 restaurants. Since last year, Busan City has initiated the Multilingual Digital Menu Project to help local restaurants provide menus in multiple languages, thereby enhancing the convenience of international visitors. The menus are available in English, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Japanese, Vietnamese, Russian and Arabic. “Taste of Busan 2025” is available online via the Visit Busan tourism portal, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, select restaurants, consulates, the Busan Tourism Organization and relevant district offices. Additionally, starting in mid-April, Busan City will distribute pocket-sized maps indicating the location of the restaurants featured in “Taste of Busan” at tourist information centers.◎ View “2025 Taste of Busan”: click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>contain: 포함하다 renowned: 유명한 culinary: 요리의 philosophy: 철학 unique: 독특한 aspect: 모습 notably: 주목할만하게 initiate: 계획하다 enhance: 향상시키다 convenience: 편리함 relevant: 관련있는 district: 구(군)Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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New Busan restaurants featured in Michelin Guide 2025
Busan's reputation as a gourmet destination remains as strong as ever, with 48 Busan restaurants earning a spot in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025, announced on Feb. 27. This marks an increase from the 43 selections in 2024, Busan돴s first year as a Michelin Guide destination. The city now boasts 19 Bib Gourmand and 26 Selected eateries to go along with its three one-star restaurants. Six new establishments have joined the list: naengmyeon specialist 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, bibimbap restaurant Bibijae, pork soup eatery Jeongjitgan, ox-bone soup shop Hanwolgwan, and beef barbecue spots Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant. Of these, 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, Bibijae, Jeongjitgan and Hanwolgwan received the prestigious Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes high-quality cuisine priced under 45,000 won per person. Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant were included as "Selected" restaurants, a Michelin distinction for noteworthy establishments. Busan's three Michelin-starred restaurants － Mori, Palette, and Fiotto － retained their one-star status, reaffirming their excellence and consistency. Fiotto also continues to hold the Michelin Green Star, an accolade for sustainable gastronomy. A full list of the Michelin Guide 2025 Busan selections, including restaurant details, photos, and inspector reviews, is available on the Michelin Guide website(click) and mobile app.100.1.Pyeongnaeng●Address: 29 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.●Main Dish: Naengmyeon●Price level: ￦ Bib GourmandBibijae●Address: 45 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Thursdays.●Main Dish: Bibimbap●Price level: ￦ Bib GourmandJeongjitgan●Address: 6 Bibong-ro, Saha-gu●Hours: Open 24 hours a day●Main Dish: Dwaeji gukbap●Price level: ￦ Bib GourmandHanwolgwan●Address: 10 Gwangan-ro 62 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Mon to Fri, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (break 3 to 4:30 p.m.) Weekends open until 10 p.m.●Main Dish: Gomtang●Price level: ￦ Bib GourmandBorn and Bred●Address: B1F Paradise Hotel, 296 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily, noon to 10 p.m. (break 3 to 5:30 p.m.)●Main Dish: Steak●Price level: ￦￦￦￦Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant●Address: 333 Haeun daehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (break 3 to 5 p.m.)●Main Dish: Barbecue●Price level: ￦￦
Life
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A spark of inspiration, delivered directly to you every Monday
To help book lovers kick off their week with a spark of inspiration, Busan Library offers a Weekly Book Talk (주간책톡) service. Every Monday morning at 8:30 a.m., personalized book summaries tailored to each subscriber’s interests are sent via KakaoTalk.Subscribers can receive up to six weekly book summaries from 12 topics ranging from finance and humanities to philosophy, parenting, health, and even Busan-themed books. Each summary, put together by professionals, condenses the key content of a book into just a few pages. It’s a smart pick for busy readers who want to stay informed.Anyone registered with the Busan Integrated Library System can sign up via the Busan Library website or the “주간책톡” KakaoTalk Channel. The service is available to 8,000 subscribers and will run until Dec. 22. Individuals without a subscription can still explore the entire archive of summaries through the library’s official website, by following these directions: Search (자료검색) - Online Contents (온라인 컨텐츠) – Reading (독서) – Book Zip (북집).◎ Busan Library: library.busan.go.kr◎ Subscription:(1) via website: click(2) via KakaoTalk: click◎ Inquiries: 051-310-5431<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>kick off: 시작하다 inspiration: 영감 personalized: 개인 맞춤형 summary: 요약 tailored to: ~에 맞춘 condense: 요약하다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Busan Concert Hall to open ticket sales on May 7
Busan Concert Hall’s grand opening festival will be held from June 21 to 28. A series of performances will delight audiences, beginning with concerts by the Asia Philharmonic Orchestra, led by artistic director Myung-whun Chung. The festival starts with performances of Beethoven's “Triple Concerto” and Symphony No. 9 by the APO. The performances continue with pianist Seong-jin Cho on June 22, presenting his interpretation of Beethoven’s “Emperor Concerto.” In addition, Jae-hyuck Cho will perform Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3 on the venue’s pipe organ.On June 23, pianist Yekwon Sunwoo will perform chamber music by Beethoven and Brahms alongside APO musicians. The next day, Mr. Chung will perform on the piano, offering classic music lovers an exceptional, intimate experience. The festival will conclude on June 27 and 28 with performances by the Busan Metropolitan Chorus and the National Chorus of Korea, once again conducted by Mr. Chung.Individuals can receive exclusive benefits by joining the concert hall’s Classicato Membership program. More information about the membership program can be found at the announcement linked below.Tickets for the opening festival will be available for purchase to Classicato Members starting at 2 p.m. on May 7 via the BCH website. Non-members can purchase tickets beginning at 4 p.m. on May 8 through various platforms, including the BCH website, Interpark, Ticketlink, and Yes24. Please note that for Pianist Seon-jin Cho’s performance, ticket sales for members will start at 2 p.m. on May 8, while general sales will open 24 hours later at 2 p.m. on May 9. Additionally, 10,000-won tickets will be set aside for middle school, high school and university students studying in Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do Province.◎ Busan Concert Hall: classicbusan.busan.go.kr◎ Classicato Membership: classicbusan.busan.go.kr/community/ko/notice/84129?q=null<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>audience: 청중 interpretation: 해설 exceptional: 특별한 intimate: 친밀한 exclusive: 독점적인 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Domoheon enters the Jazz Age
A new outdoor concert series, “Busan, Soaked in Jazz,” will take place on the last Saturday of each month at the Domoheon Sosopoong Garden.The concerts will run from 4 to 5 p.m. and feature live performances from notable jazz ensembles. Admission is free and done on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum capacity of 300 attendees.Guests are encouraged to bring refreshments and picnic mats or chairs to enjoy music in a relaxed, open-air setting.The concert series will end in October.From April 29 to June 29, Domoheon visitors can also experience a sculpture exhibition by world-renowned Korean artist Jung Hyun.Jung Hyun, a graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, has showcased his work globally, including at the 2024 Art Basel Miami Beach, where his solo booth was named one of the “7 Unmissable Projects.”※ “Busan, Soaked in Jazz” concert series, until Oct. 25◎ Domoheon: 60 Hwangnyeongsan-ro 7beon-gil, Suyeong-gu◎ Time: Last Saturday of each month, 4 to 5 p.m.◎ Admission: Free<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>outdoor: 야외의 soaked: 흠뻑 빠진 notable: 주목할만한 admission: 입장료 first-come, first-served basis: 선착순 sculpture: 조각품Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Views
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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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In Busan, 'YOLO' means long walks by the sea
Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are a collection of hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources. With long walks along beaches, gentle climbs up mountain slopes and invigorating dips in hot springs, the trails are beloved by citizens. The collection of routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil is especially popular. The 10 routes combine hiking with cultural assets like quaint villages, cafes and historic sites. 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 Galmaet-gil Route 1-1 YOLO Route 1, also known as "The Beginning," starts on the sandy shores in Gijang-gun County in eastern Busan. The trail stretches 9.1 kilometers from Imnang Beach to Ilgwang Beach. The walk takes approximately three hours, featuring flat terrain with expansive ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. The journey begins at Imnang Beach, a serene location on Busan's easternmost shore. Its pristine white sand stretches over a kilometer, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea. Sinpyeong Small Park is the perfect place to rest tired legs. The ocean view, traditional pavilion and well-grown pine trees heal your body and mind.Take in the ocean at an observatory in Sinpyeong Small Park.Get a view of unique lighthouses at Chilamhang Port. Heading south, walkers reach Chilamhang Port, known for its distinctive lighthouses. The port is famous for fresh conger eel sashimi, attracting visitors from across Korea. A notable stop is Chilamsagye, a bakery and cafe founded by Busan-born confectionery master Heung-yong Lee. Selected as a 2024 Taste of Busan establishment, it offers fresh pastries and coffee with stunning sea views. The journey concludes at Ilgwang Beach, one of Gijang-gun's eight scenic wonders. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it a popular destination for families. At the central observatory, shaped like a ship's bow, visitors can take in an uninterrupted view of the horizon, marking the perfect end to this scenic coastal walk.Learn more about YOLO Galmaet-gil Course 1 : Click
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Walking Along Busan: Eulsukdo Island
It is rare to find a space where nature and culture come together like they do on Eulsukdo Island, which boasts nature reserves, museums and performance centers. Eulsukdo Island, located at the western end of Busan, where the Nakdonggang River Estuary meets the sea, is an ideal destination for leisurely strolls. Its well-paved trails, refreshing river breeze and serene natural beauty are perfect for treating tired minds and bodies. Covering approximately 80,000 square meters, Eulsukdo Island is a haven for wildlife, teeming with diverse plants and animals. In the 1950s, it was renowned as one of Asia's largest bird migration sites and remains home to numerous birds, such as whooper swans and mallards. However, the island faced a dark period in the 1990s when it was used as a landfill, disrupting its delicate ecosystem and deterring migratory birds. In the 2000s, an extensive ecosystem restoration project was undertaken, and through continuous efforts, Eulsukdo Island has successfully recovered, welcoming the return of its feathered visitors. Beyond its ecological significance, Eulsukdo Island is also renowned for its cultural and artistic assets. The Nakdonggang Estuary Bank Bridge is a useful reference point for understanding the layout of the island. This bridge connects Saha-gu and Gangseo-gu districts and crosses over the island. Two main parks can be found west of the bridge, the Migratory Bird Park to the south and the Ecology Park to the north. The Migratory Bird Park provides a tranquil habitat for flora and fauna, while the Ecology Park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. East of the bridge lies the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in 2018. The museum's unique architecture blends seamlessly with the verdant landscape of Eulsukdo Island. The museum offers an immersive experience through cutting-edge art, utilizing various media such as video, sound, and light. Its exhibitions enthrall visitors by demonstrating contemporary art's vital role in modern society, from technological collaborations to sharp social commentaries. Northeast of Busan MoCA, visitors can find another iconic cultural hub with over two decades of history, the Eulsukdo Cultural Center. It houses a theater, an exhibition hall, an outdoor stage and a variety of cultural classes for the public. The surrounding sculpture park and the Water Exhibition Hall of the Korea Water Resources Corporation are popular with families. Eulsukdo Island offers numerous opportunities for visitors to learn about the environment, enjoy scenic views and improve their well-being. It features a multi-purpose indoor sports complex, the Nakdonggang River Cultural Center, the Nakdonggang River Observatory and the National Youth Ecology Center. On weekends, the island's outdoor sports fields become a hive of activity. These include artificial turf football fields, futsal courts and little league baseball fields.A walking trail in Eulsukdo Ecological Park.The Vertical Garden at Busan MoCA.Eulsukdo Cultural Center and Sculpture Park.
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