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- Busan invites you to write emails with an ocean view The workspace at Cheongsapo.The workspace at Holi Lounge. Do you want to work in a quiet, cozy office with an ocean view? If so, Busan invites you to work remotely from the Wave Workation Centers in Haeundae-gu District, which opened on April 29. "Workation," a portmanteau of "work" and "vacation," refers to the trend of doing remote work while enjoying leisure time. While the benefits for workers are plain - taking a break from the daily grind, keeping momentum at work without taking time off - more and more employers are using workations to prevent burnout, increase productivity and manage the overall well-being of their employees. Given its oceanside location, perpetual "on vacation" vibe and digital infrastructure, Busan is the perfect place for "workationers." There are two Wave Workation Centers ready to help people crush their KPIs and sand beneath their feet. The first is at the Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory Information Center. The center has a video conference room, private workspaces and individual lockers. Workers can take a break by strolling along the coastal walking trail behind the building and gazing at the deep blue ocean. The second is at the Holi Lounge at Songjeong Beach. Selected as the city's private sector partner, Holi Lounge is a casual restaurant with ocean views. The upper floors of the building are open to remote workers, and the workspace is equipped with group and individual seating. Since May, the Haeundae-gu District Office has been recruiting remote workers to use the work centers free of charge. Selected workers will also be given 120,000 won vouchers to be used at one of eight designated accommodation places citywide. The package also provides a 30,000 won voucher for tourism activities or food and beverage around the Songjeong area. Any Korean working for a nationally registered company outside Busan is eligible to use the Wave Workation Centers.Wave Workation Centers Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory Information Center: 167 Cheongsapo-ro, 2nd Floor, Haeundae-guHoli Lounge: 143 Songjeongjungang-ro, 6beon-gil, Haeundae-guHours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Website: waveinhaeundae.com<Vocab Spotlight>cozy: 아늑한portmanteau: 혼성어(두 단어의 뜻과 소리를 결합한 단어)daily grind: 일상 업무perpetual: 영구적인KPI: 핵심성과지표(Key Performance Indicator)stroll: 산책be eligible to: ~을 할 자격이 있다
- Coffee beans and barista battles at BEXCO The World of Coffee festival, which took place from May 1 to 4 at BEXCO, brought professionals and enthusiasts together to celebrate all things coffee. Busan is now a top location for global coffee culture since it successfully hosted the World of Coffee trade show and the World Barista Championship 2024. The events took place at BEXCO from May 1 to 4 and captured the attention of local and global coffee lovers. World of Coffee is the world's number one specialty coffee trade show. The annual conference brings thousands of industry professionals and enthusiasts together to celebrate specialty coffee. Thanks to Busan's status as the nation's coffee trade hub and mecca of cafe culture, it became the first Asian city to host the WOC trade show. The weekend in May proved Busan has the infrastructure, capability and passion to count itself among the world's top coffee destinations. Around 15,000 coffee professionals and 281 coffee companies from 72 countries participated in the events. Thanks to the presence of coffee bean-producing nations in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, the conference was a perfect place to learn the latest trends in all things coffee. Citizens and visitors enjoyed the Roaster Village, where domestic and international roasteries showcased their flavors to discerning palates. The World Barista Championship, organized by the Specialty Coffee Association, is an annual competition of national champion baristas pitted against one another in a showcase of technical skill and brewing precision. Long seen as the crown jewel of the global coffee competition circuit, the WBC is the culmination of local and regional events worldwide. Past winners include Jeon Joo-yeon, co-head of Busan-based Momos Coffee, and Paul Bassett, the barista behind the international coffeehouse chain that bears his name. This year, over 50 baristas from all over the world prepared four espressos, four milk beverages and four original signature drinks during a 15-minute performance. A panel of sensory judges evaluated each performance based on the taste and balance of each beverage, the presentation, the technique, and the cleanliness displayed by the barista. After fierce competition, Mikael Jasin of So So Good Coffee Company in Indonesia was crowned the best barista in the world. He captured the title with a routine focused on mindfulness and meditation. Jasin's performance began with him explaining how burnout caused him to leave the competition circuit. He then took judges on the journey that led him to reignite his passion for coffee and propel him to the highest heights of coffee culture. Jasin showed that the practices of meditation and mindfulness that helped him rediscover his passion can elevate the coffee-drinking experience and one's life more broadly. Jasin succeeds Boram Um of Brazil as the reigning World Barista Champion. Korea's representative, Junghwan Lim of Busan, placed 5th. Citizens and visitors enjoyed the World of Coffee trade show and the World Barista Championship. A local coffee professional said, "I'm so proud of the event because I can enjoy the world's biggest and best coffee event in my city without a long flight to Europe or the U.S. I believe the event is such a great opportunity to boost the coffee industry in Busan."<Vocab Spotlight>enthusiast: 열성팬, 매니아annual: 연간, 매년discerning palate: 안목 있는 미각, 까다로운 입맛culmination: 절정, 최고점reignite: 재점화하다 (*ignite: 점화하다)
- Green investments create jobs and boost industries Busan is campaigning to have the city's parks recognized as national urban parks (Photo: Eulsukdo Ecological Park would make up part of the Nakdong Estuary national urban park).Mayor Park with Tim Beatley of Biophilic Cities. On May 28, Busan became the first Korean city to join the Biophilic Cities Network. Launched in 2013 at the University of Virginia in the U.S., the Biophilic Cities Network is a coalition of cities, organizations and individuals committed to planning and designing cities where the natural world is an integral element of daily life. At the heart of Biophilic Cities is the concept of biophilia: That humans have co-evolved with the natural world and that we have an innate need for contact with nature and other forms of life. Busan joins a global community of 32 cities in 14 countries, including Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Toronto, Singapore, Barcelona, Spain, and Wellington, New Zealand. Partner cities work collectively to pursue the vision of a "natureful city" that harmonizes the environment and culture unique to each location. Biophilic Cities recognized Busan for its efforts and achievements in becoming a sustainable green city where nature and citizens coexist in natural and urban areas. The recognition is the latest development under City Hall's pursuit of a new, green future. Under the banner of "The First to the Future, Green Smart City, Busan," the city is investing in several eco-friendly initiatives in various industries. In addition to protecting nature, these green projects will create jobs and strengthen the economy.Testing LPG-fueled propulsion ships. This green revolution is making waves in the shipbuilding industry. On April 25, the Smart Repair Shipbuilding Support Center opened in Yeongdo-gu District. The center allows local businesses to test drive the latest eco-friendly ship repair and maintenance equipment. It also supports companies in upgrading their businesses to stay competitive in the global market. The resources available at the Smart Repair Shipbuilding Support Center will allow companies to better serve their customers in light of the environmental regulations the International Maritime Organization implemented in 2020. Then, on April 30, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups officially announced Busan's selection as a special zone for next-generation marine mobility. The designation eases regulations to support the development of new products and overseas expansion in future technology. Previously, regulations prevented companies from testing certain next-generation technologies. However, starting this month, those regulations have been lifted. As a result, Busan companies can further advance ship equipment and ship management technologies, such as eco-friendly and digital self-driving vessels and carbon capture systems on small and medium-sized ships. In addition, the city has signed Memorandums of Understanding with four leading data center companies; Busan Eco Delta Green Data Center PFV, Empyrion Digital, BEP & Mirae Asset, and Elice Group. The companies will invest 3.6 trillion won to create a green data center cluster within Eco Delta City in Gangseo-gu District. Data centers house the computing infrastructure that IT systems require and are necessary components of Fourth Industrial products and services, such as artificial intelligence, cloud technology, big data analytics and more. The four companies are leaders in constructing and operating data centers while minimizing carbon footprints through water and energy-efficient technologies. The green data center cluster will house around 100,000 servers and help establish a robust digital ecosystem in Busan to drive future growth. The project is expected to have a significant economic impact. The building and operation of the green data centers are expected to create over 1,000 jobs. Then, industries and companies that rely on data center infrastructure can expand. Officials believe the project can eventually create over 50,000 jobs, grow tax revenue and boost the local economy.My Town ESG Center in Dong-gu District. Finally, My Town ESG Centers have helped the city reduce carbon emissions while providing much-needed jobs for older people. Over the past two years, Busan's two ESG centers have collected 15,000 kilograms of plastic waste, reduced around 19,000 kilograms of carbon emissions, and provided 870 jobs to senior citizens. The city plans to open more centers this year.<Vocab Spotlight>Estuary: 강 하구, 강어귀coalition: 연합integral: 통합coexist: 공존propulsion: 추진, 추진력regulation: 규제Memorandums of Understanding: 양해각서
Enjoy Busan
- Fill your stomach and mind at the 2024 Busan Wheat Festival The 2024 Busan Wheat Festival will take place from June 22 to 23 at the auto campground and lotus field in Hwamyeong Ecological Park, Buk-gu District. Festivalgoers can enjoy food, lectures and activities centered around wheat, one of the most widely grown crops worldwide.Buk-gu was a major wheat distribution center after the Korean War. Busan Metropolitan Government planned the new wheat festival to commemorate this history and connect it to the city’s burgeoning gastronomic tourism.Visitors will find gourmet food at the auto campground. Participating restaurants include Michelin-rated Cor Pasta Bar (Bib Gourmand), Ramsey and Le Dorer. Beloved local eateries, such as Gome Milmyeon, Namcheon Myeonga and Dufftown Burger, will also offer their best wheat-based meals.Special discounted tickets to reserve meal sets are available online until 5 p.m. on June 19. A total of 2,000 tickets are available. Follow the link at the bottom of this article to learn more. Festivalgoers without special meal tickets can still purchase food on-site. However, they should anticipate long wait times and limited availability. In addition, the “Wheat & Wit Concert” will explore the world of wheat. Experts in history, science, art and food will share their ideas on wheat and its significance to society. Presenters include scientist and content creator Gue-do of the YouTube channel Unrealscience, historical storyteller Sun Kim, food columnist Park Sang-hyun, and celebrity chef Hong Shinae.Finally, The Picnic Lounge near the lotus field will offer food trucks, hands-on activities and live performances to enhance the festive atmosphere.For details, visit the Busan Culture and Tourism Organizing Committee website. Reservation information can also be found on the organization’s official Instagram account.※The 2024 Busan Wheat Festival, June 22 to 23 ◎ Hwamyeong Ecological Park: 1718-17 Hwamyeong-dong, Buk-gu◎ Website: http://www.bfo.or.kr/festival_Eng/info/01.asp?MENUDIV=1&Fcode=RAPEFLOWER◎ Reservations: https://linktr.ee/busan_festival ◎ Instagram: @busan_festival<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>wheat: 밀 crop: 작물 commemorate: 기념하다 anticipate: 예상하다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Kim Miyoung, Anton J. Mapoy
- A natural haven for wildlife and citizens Wide, floor-to-ceiling windows give panoramic views of the environment. The Nakdong Estuary Eco Center in Eulsukdo Ecological Park, Saha-gu District, reopened after a year of renovations. The newly revamped space has several exhibition halls, digital displays, various plant and animal collections, galleries and seating areas. The Nakdong Estuary Eco Center was established in June 2007 as an ecological education and experience center. The center has helped citizens learn about the history and environment of the Nakdonggang River Estuary. Designated as a National Treasure in 1966, the estuary is located where the river meets the Korea Strait. The area is protected as one of Asia's largest habitats for migratory birds. Over 150 species stop by during their travels between October and March, the most prominent being the whooper swan. In addition to birds, the estuary is home to crabs, shrimp, fish and other marine life that thrive in fresh, salt and brackish water. After 15 years, the center needed extensive repairs and renovations. Thus, in March 2023, the city invested 4 billion won into upgrading the facility. The Eco Center is integral to balancing urban development with ecological preservation and is a symbol of Busan's commitment to sustainable living with nature. The renovated exhibition hall in the Eco Center has been transformed under the theme of "Eulsukdo Zoom-In: Explore Nature's Paradise." Equipped with the latest digital technology, the new center promises exciting experiences. The center rents out automatic language guides, in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese, and powerful binoculars so that guests can get the most out of their visit. On the first floor, visitors can find two information kiosks, three large displays, a nursing room and a souvenir shop. Look up at the ceiling to find an artificial colony of lifelike hooded gulls, which mimics the dynamic environment just outside. On the second floor, eight media boards present different visual materials. One of the videos, "Four Seasons of Eulsukdo," uses stunning ink-and-wash painting to portray the dramatic landscape and wildlife changes occurring throughout the year on Eulsukdo Island. Visitors watching fish specimens.Exhibits teach visitors about the plants in the wetlands ecosystem.Exhibits showcasing the different animals living in the Nakdong Estuary.A display of insects inhabiting the area.A display of the various bird species that travel through the sanctuary.Visitors can enjoy a "Zoomed-In" view of local bird specimens. The permanent exhibition hall is also on the second floor and consists of four zones. In Zone 1, visitors learn about the source of the Nakdonggang River and the creation of the area's sandbars. Zone 2 introduces the variety of wildlife and plants inhabiting the area. Zone 3 contains a taxidermy collection of 146 birds, several of which died before or while receiving treatment at the nearby Busan Wildlife Treatment Center. Others are specimens donated by citizens. The collection gives visitors an up-close look at birds without disturbing the natural habitat outside.The Nakdong Estuary Eco Center is the best place to escape the daily grind of city life. Zone 4 contains the center's main attraction: The birding station. Wide, floor-to-ceiling windows and two telescopes help bird watchers easily find and enjoy birds in their natural habitat. On the opposite end, stadium-style seating invites guests to sit, relax and enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful Nakdong Estuary landscape. The new center also has kid-friendly spaces to keep young ones engaged. The interactive video board is a big hit, as children enjoy watching their drawings come to life on screen. Another exhibit invites kids to make music using the various sounds and calls of different birds. There is also the Eulsukdo Gallery, which showcases depictions of the estuary in literature, and an archive space with research materials and videos. Guided tours at 10 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 3 p.m. are available for groups of 10 to 30 people aged 8 and up. Reservations are required and can be made via the center's homepage. Finally, the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center runs various community engagement programs to raise awareness of nature and promote its preservation. The programs provide hands-on experiences, such as nature walks, providing medical care to wildlife, exploring the wetlands and welcoming migratory birds, and are offered year-round.Nakdong Estuary Eco CenterAddress: 1240 Nakdongnam-ro, Saha-guHours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last admission at 5 p.m. Closed every Monday (or on Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday).Admission: FreeWebsite: busan.go.kr/wetlandInquiry: 051-209-2000Note: No food or drink permitted inside. Pets, bicycles, inline skates and boards are also prohibited. ※Programs or events may be canceled or suspended due to inclement weather. Please check the website before going.<Vocab Spotlight>revamped: 개편된 (*revamp: 개편하다)Korea Strait: 대한해협migratory bird: 철새thrive: 번창하다, 번성하다, 번영하다brackish water: 기수(해수와 담수가 혼합되어 있는 곳의 물)specimen: 표본taxidermy: 박제
- Busan One Asia Festival kicks off this weekend The 2024 Busan One Asia Festival, the biggest K-Wave festival, will take place from June 8 to 9. The festival combines K-culture and K-pop content and has become Asia’s representative concert where cultural exchange happens beyond just one event.The “Big Concert” at 7 p.m. on June 8 will kick off the festival at Busan Asiad Main Stadium. Some of K-pop’s biggest stars will take the stage, including g.o.d, Super Junior-D&E, Zero Base One, Billie, H1-Key, BoyNextDoor, Lun8, n.SSign and Nowadays. They will present unforgettable moments to K-pop fans on early summer nights. Along with the concert, concertgoers from around the world will enjoy various programs and cultural pop-up booths where you can experience K-beauty, K-food and other K-content firsthand.The K-pop Playground, a series of events focusing on K-pop and Korean culture to celebrate the 2023-2024 Visit Korea Year, will take place at 2 p.m. on June 8 at the deck of Busan Asiad Main Stadium. K-Pop Playground, which began on May 31, takes place at nine locations nationwide in collaboration with regional festivals. One event highlight is the Random Play Dance Relay competition, featuring K-pop idols and professional dance teams. Finalists from each region will have a chance to compete in the final competition, scheduled for Sept. 28 at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul.The “Park Concert,” an outdoor music festival open for free to the public, will take place on June 9 at Hwamyeong Ecological Park in Buk-gu District.With the beautiful sunset of the Nakdonggang River as a backdrop, concertgoers will enjoy a romantic night with performances by K-pop singers MeloMance, Paul Kim, Jukjae, Lim Han-byul and local musicians. Bring a picnic mat and treat yourself to live music in early summer.As many citizens are expected to gather in the park to enjoy the concert, the city recommends that citizens take public transportation to avoid congestion. For details about the festival, visit the official website, Facebook or Instagram.※ 2024 Busan One Asia Festival, June 8 to 9◎Website: bof.or.kr/◎ Instagram: @bof_official_kr @bof.en @bof.tw @bof.jp◎ Facebook: facebook.com/BusanOneAsiaFestival/◎ Busan Asiad Main Stadium: 344 World cup-daero, Yeonje-gu◎ Hwamyeong Ecological Park: 1718-17 Hwamyeong-dong, Buk-gu<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>combine: 합치다 representative: 대표적인 nationwide: 전국적으로 congestion: 혼잡Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Kim Miyoung, Anton J. Mapoy
Food
- Naengmyeon beats the heat Mul-milmyeon and bibim-milmyeon at Gukje Milmyeon.Samsung milmyeon topped with thinly shredded fried eggs.The mul-naengmyeon at Buda Myeonak.The mul-naengmyeon at Damiok. As we head into summer, Koreans' all-time favorite summer dish is in high demand. Typically served in deep and wide brass or stainless steel bowls, naengmyeon consists of a dense nest of noodles immersed in an ice-cold, savory, slightly sweet, tangy beef broth and topped with various proteins and vegetables. Naengmyeon has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries. Cold noodles were a local specialty in the northern region dating back to the ancient state of Goryeo (918-1392). The expression "eating cold noodles in broth" is found in the collected literary works of Jang Yu, an important figure and scholar in the 16th century. Records from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897) show military officers rewarded with bowls of cold noodles after training. During this long history, naengmyeon has evolved in various ways depending on the type of noodle and accompanying toppings. Broadly speaking, naengmyeon is categorized as "mul-naengmyeon," with noodles served in broth, or "bibim-naengmyeon," with noodles served covered in a sweet and spicy hot pepper paste. However, regional styles may be an even more important distinction. Each region produces naengmyeon with distinct ingredients, textures and flavors. We will look at three: Pyongyang, Hamhung and Busan's "milmyeon." Traditional naengmyeon traces back to two cities in North Korea: Pyongyang, the capital, and Hamhung. Pyongyang naengmyeon is the standard and is considered the forefather of modern mul-naengmyeon. Since buckwheat was a staple crop in the region, this style uses buckwheat noodles served in "dongchimi" broth. Dongchimi is a type of "water kimchi" consisting of radishes, cabbage and other vegetables fermented in a sweet, tangy and refreshing brine. The buckwheat noodles and dongchimi broth are typically garnished with pickled radish, slices of beef, julienned cucumber and half of a hard-boiled egg. For many, Pyongyang naengmyeon's subtle, even bland, taste is the Platonic ideal for a cold noodle dish. Hamhung naengmyeon's signature noodles are made with starch flour, usually potato or sweet potato. The resulting noodles are thin, light-colored and very chewy. Typically, diners cut up the noodles to make them easier to eat. Hamhung naengmyeon is served with similar garnishes, but is traditionally enjoyed bibim-style. The chewy noodles covered in the sweet and spicy sauce are satisfying to a degree other dishes can't match. Milmyeon was born when people from the north fled to Busan to escape the Korean War. These refugees brought their local cuisines to the city. However, the war made obtaining certain ingredients difficult. Buckwheat was plentiful in the north but scarce down south. However, wheat flour was widely available from the food aid provided by the U.S. military. Thus, one of Busan's signature dishes was born. Keeping the basic outlines of the dish, the main difference between milmyeon and naengmyeon is the noodles. Milmyeon noodles consist primarily of wheat flour mixed with starch flour. The resulting noodles lie somewhere between the soft texture and nutty flavor of Pyeongyang-style noodles and thin, chewy Hamhung-style noodles. To get a true taste of Busan, opt for "mul bibim-myeon," and get the best of both worlds. A bowl of tangled noodles, covered in sauce, topped with shredded cucumbers, thin slices of beef, half a hard-boiled egg, maybe a slice of pear and covered with an icy slush of beef broth is the perfect hot-weather meal.■ Michelin Guide Picks◎ Buda Myeonoak (Bib Gourmand selection) Located near Haeundae Beach, this noodle haven offers Pyongyang cold buckwheat noodles made out of 100% buckwheat flour. The broth, made from Korean beef and mixed with vegetable broth, is savory, earthy and mild. Address: 2F, 36 Jungdong 1-ro, Haeundae-guHours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed on Mondays.Price: 12,000 won for naengmyeon.◎ Damiok (Bib Gourmand selection) Damiok specializes in Pyongyang-style cold buckwheat noodles that taste refreshingly light and clean. The pork, chicken and beef broth tastes pure and non-greasy. The noodles are housemade, and diners can select 100 percent buckwheat noodles, which have a pleasant, nutty flavor.Address: 103, 15 Bokji-ro, Busanjin-gu Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday (break time from 3 to 5 p.m.). Open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. Closed on Mondays.Price: 12,000 won for naengmyeon. 12,000 won for buckwheat noodles with perilla oil.■ Taste of Busan 2024 Picks◎ Samseong Milmyeon This milmyeon specialty restaurant has maintained its original taste for 60 years. It is also the only remaining milmyeon restaurant run by the first-generation owner. What more is there to say?Address: 47 World Cup-daero 449beon-gil, Busanjin-guHours: 10:30 a.m to 6 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.Price: 7,500 won for mul-milmyeon. 8,500 won for bibimyeon.◎ Gukje Milmyeon This place is widely recognized as one of the best spots for milmyeon, mainly for its exceptional taste. They present a distinct type of wheat noodles in beef bone broth. Elsewhere, the meat topping is usually cut by machines, but Gukje is known for hand-shredded, thin pieces of brisket.Address: 23-6 Jungang-daero 1235beon-gil, Yeonje-guHours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. from April to September, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from October to March. Closed on public holidays.Price: 9,000 won for milmyeon.<Vocab Spotlight>brass: 황동dense: 조밀한immersed: 잠긴tangy: 톡 쏘는texture: (음식)식감flavor: 풍미buckwheat: 메밀starch flour: 전분가루
- A bowl of soup that mirrors its hometown history Unique bowls of dwaeji gukbap are found citywide. (top to bottom, 1. Anmok's soup does not require extra seasoning. 2. Namakzip's soup is light and nourishing. 3. Hapcheon Gukbapjip serves generous portions of meat.)In February, the Michelin Guide rated Busan restaurants for the first time. The city's 43 Michelin-recommended restaurants range from homestyle eateries to luxurious fine dining. Three places achieved rarefied star status: French spot Palate, Italian bistro Fiotto, and Japanese restaurant Mori each earned one star.In addition, Michelin rated 15 Busan establishments as Bib Gourmand, meaning they offer good food at moderate prices. With so many dining options, deciding where to eat can be a Paradox of Choice. Luckily, Busan is Good is here to ease your restaurant anxiety. Follow our recommendations and every meal can be one to remember.Traditional dish, modern sensibilityDo not trust a Busan food guide if it doesn't include an ode to "dwaeji gukbap," generous bowls of pork soup and rice that power the city's denizens. Born from the privation of war, dwaeji gukbap is not merely a hearty soup; it is a culinary symbol of Korea's modern history, of refugees fleeing violence, of survival during a war that tore the country in two.Such lofty meaning granted to a humble meal of pork, soup and rice may seem excessive, but for many Busanites, dwaeji gukbap is a reminder that no matter how hard life gets, comfort is just a bowl away. Plus, it is really, really good.Traditionally, dwaeji gukbap features a milky-white, rich stock. However, the versions Michelin recommends are lighter and cleaner, reflecting Korea's current food culture. Just as Busan is undergoing modernization, so too is its representative dish.□ Clear soup at Hapcheon Gukbapjip (Bib Gourmand selection)Hapcheon Gukbapjip serves dwaeji gukbap rooted in tradition and full of time-tested flavors. However, its soup has evolved with changing times and dietary trends.Here, the pork is repeatedly covered with broth and drained before it is served. This technique eliminates impurities and unpleasant odors while preserving the meat's rich flavor. Instead of milky-white stock, the meat sits in a pool of clear broth. Diners dive right in, delighting in the clean and light soup. The umami created by the luscious pork, savory soup and tender rice grains reverberates in the mind long after empty bowls clang upon tables.Diners also enjoy Hapcheon Gukbapjip's signature slices of boiled pork. Portions are limited, so arrive early. Solo eaters should avoid lunch.•Address: 235 Yongho-ro, Nam-gu•Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Break time from 2 to 2:30 p.m. •Price: ₩10,000 for gukbap, ₩35,000 for boiled pork slices□Defying expectations at Anmok (安木) (Bib Gourmand selection)For many people, eating dwaeji gukbap is a Proustian experience, with each bowl evoking warm memories of post-drinking camaraderie. Not at Anmok, however.Anmok's unconventional take on dwaeji gukbap defies any memories one might have of the dish. Diners seeking the greasy, unctuous flavors traditionally desired in pork-centric meals will be happily disappointed. The chefs at Anmok have done the impossible by creating a rich soup full of pork flavor without any greasiness. This magic is also displayed in servings of sliced pork, as each piece has a nice layer of meat and fat without a hint of grease. Despite its status as a supporting character, the rice at Anmok is hardly an afterthought. Each grain stays al dente even when submerged in the soup, providing a pleasing chew to contrast the succulent meat.Anmok also offers servings of pork ramen reminiscent of Japanese tonkotsu ramen.•Address: 3 Gwangnam-ro 22 beon-gil, 101ho, Suyeong-gu•Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Break time from 3 to 5 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays.•Price: ₩9,000 for gukbap, ₩9,000 for ramen □Vegetable-forward soup at Namakzip (Selected Restaurant)Michelin rates some establishments as "selected," which denotes restaurants that serve high-quality meals but not at star or Bib level. Busan boasts 25 Selected Restaurants.One such restaurant is Namakzip, which serves a unique take on dwaeji gukbap, right down to the serving ware. Traditionally, dwaeji gukbap is served in dark, heavy earthenware bowls that jump straight from the fire to the table. In contrast, Namakzip serves its version in a delicate, white ceramic lidded bowl, a stark visual distinction that previews the soup inside.Under the lid lies sliced pork and handfuls of finely chopped chives mounted in a very light broth. Namakzip states its broth is 90% vegetable-based, which results in a soup that tastes light and clean rather than heavy and rich. While this version is clearly a derivative of the Busan staple, it is different enough that the restaurant calls it "dwaeji gomtang." In Korean cuisine, gomtang refers to soups made by boiling meat only, without bones.In addition, the menu includes "kalguksu," or soup and hand-cut noodles, and grilled pork belly. •Address: #1068 A, W Square, 145 Bunpo-ro, Nam-gu•Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Break time from 3 to 5 p.m. •Price: ₩9,000 for dwaeji gomtang, ₩8,000 for kalguksuVocab Spotlightnourishing: 영양가 있는moderate: 보통의, 적당한denizens: 거주자lofty: 고상한excessive: 과도한impurities: 불순물odor: 냄새umami: 감칠맛luscious: 감미로운reverberate: 울려 퍼지다Defy: 저항하다, 거역하다Proustian experience: 프루스트 경험(후각의 경험을 매개로 해서 마음 깊은 곳에서 웅크려 잠자고 있는 기억을 깨어나게 해서 지금 이 순간 떠오르게 만드는 현상)unctuous: 불쾌한submerged: 잠긴earthenware: 토기lidded bowl: 뚜껑이 있는 그릇
- Busan's culinary coming out party has three stars Earlier this year, Busan debuted on the international culinary scene when it appeared as a Michelin Guide city for the first time. Of the 43 restaurants listed by Michelin, three received the coveted star status. Busan's three starred restaurants matches or exceeds the number in other cities, namely Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Izmir, Turkey, and Penang, Malaysia. The Michelin Guide began in 1889 when brothers Andrew and Edouard Michelin founded their eponymous tire company and were looking for a way to help motorists develop their trips; thereby boosting car sales and in turn, tire sales. The brothers developed a small guide filled with handy information for travelers, including how to change a tire and places where a weary driver could rest. Since then, the Michelin Guide has become one of the most reliable sources of information on restaurants around the world, and inclusion on its various lists confers unmatched prestige on an establishment. Each restaurant is assessed using the Michelin Guide's traditional and universal methodology, based on five criteria: The quality of the ingredients; the mastery of cooking; the harmony of flavors; the personality of the chef through the cuisine; and the consistency both over time and across the entire menu. Inspectors who have at least 10 years of experience in the industry evaluate restaurants by the Michelin Star rating system: One Star for a very good restaurant in its category; Two Stars for restaurants with excellent cooking and worth a detour; Three Stars for restaurants that offer exceptional cuisine and are worth a special journey. Busan is proud of its three One-Star restaurants: Palate, Mori and Fiotto.Busan's Michelin StarsPalate's Sea Bream Caper, served with a kelp puree and lemon coulis, is one of the restaurant's most popular dishes.■Palate (팔레트) Palate offers diners avant-garde French cuisine that reflects Chef Kim Jae-hoon's innovative approach. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Australia, Chef Kim enjoys an epicurean challenge that incorporates culinary experimentation and traditional techniques. The result is Palate's free-spirited and adventurous meals. Palate's views include Yonghoman Bay Wharf and Gwangandaegyo Bridge, creating an alluring vibe that serves as a fine companion during the meal. The restaurant offers a five-course lunch menu and a seven-course dinner menu.•Address: 66-30 Bunpo-ro, 3rd floor, Nam-gu•Hours: Open Wednesday to Sun-day, noon to 11 p.m. Break time from 3 to 6 p.m. •Price: 66,000 won for lunch course and 150,000 won for dinner course•Instagram: @palate.busan Ravioli filled with flounder meat, watermelon radish sprinkled with chamomile kombucha, and kale oil with a fresh scent are all handmade by the chefs at Fiotto.■Fiotto (피오또) Located on Dalmaji Hill, Fiotto is a cozy Italian pasta bistro that opened in 2021. It is run and owned by a chef couple. The restaurant's pasta-only courses feature homemade or directly sourced ingredients from the owners' family farm. When the chefs aren't serving fresh pasta dishes, they are on the farm actively growing and cultivating the ingredients they use in the kitchen. This farm-to-table ethos also earned Fiotto a Michelin Green Star, an annual award highlighting restaurants at the forefront of the industry regarding sustainable practices. •Address: 432 Jwadongsunhwan-ro, 2nd floor, Haeundae-gu•Hours: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 5 to 10 p.m.•Price: 75,000 won per person •Note: The restaurant will close from April 1 to 15. •instagram: @fiotto_busan Mori uses a charcoal grill to give dishes rich flavor and tender texture.■Mori (모리) Opened in 2020, Mori is a Japanese kaiseki restaurant co-owned by a Korean chef trained in Japan and his Japanese wife, whom the restaurant is named after. Chef Kim Wan-gyu crafts delicate and delightful dishes that perfectly harmonize Busan's bounty of fresh seafood and seasonal produce. The seafood in every dish comes from the local market every morning.•Address: 2-4 Pale de Cz, 24 Haeun-daehaebyeon-ro 298beon-gil, 2nd floor, Haeundae-gu•Hours: Open 7 to 11 p.m. on Tues-days, 6 to 11 p.m. from Wednesday to Friday, and 5:30 to 11 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.•Price: 180,000 won per person •Instagram: @haeundae_mori ※ Menus, prices and/or hours may vary <Voca Spotlight>culinary: 요리exceed: 초과하다eponymous: 이름의 시조가 된inclusion: 포함, 포용methodology: 방법론Sea Bream: 도미(생선)kelp: 해조류, 다시마coulis: 쿨리(음식을 으깬 뒤 체에 걸러 만든 소스)avant-garde: 전위적인epicurean: 미식가, 식도락wharf: 부두alluring: 매혹적인Ravioli: 라비올리(얇은 반죽에 속을 채운 파스타의 일종)flounder: 가자미watermelon radish: 수박무kombucha: 콤부차(차를 우린 물을 발효시킨 음료)bistro: 비스트로(규모가 작은 식당)charcoal: 숯kaiseki: 가이세키(일본식 코스 요리)
Life
- June Cultural Calendar June, the start of summer, has arrived. Why don’t you enjoy the romantic summer with various cultural events across the city?Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Kim Miyoung, Anton J. Mapoy
- [Big Quiz] Busan travelers will now be able to fly directly to these cities! Busan travelers will now be able to fly directly to more Asian destinations!On May 24, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport distributed transportation rights for 30 routes to 11 domestic airlines.As a result, passengers traveling through Gimhae International Airport can fly directly to these cities in Indonesia.This is welcome news for locals, as Indonesia is a popular leisure and business travel destinations. Can you tell me the names of these cities?We will give a gift card to 5 people who answered the quiz correctly through a lottery.■ Quiz Period: June 10 to 19■ Winner Announcement: June 21Click "here" to participate!
- Have fun at the library Busan English Library is thrilled to present the Kids' Book Gallery for Character Building. The program aims to foster an English-friendly environment for kids while offering a range of engaging, book-related activities. Each month, the library introduces a different book and invites children to participate in hands-on activities. The program runs until October. Throughout June, the program will feature English books that delve into Korean history. In July, the program will focus on creativity and collaboration. Reservations are not re-quired. Anyone can participate after reading the books in the library.※ learn more: https://home.pen.go.kr/bellib/main.do<Vocab Spotlight>foster: 육성하다, 양육하다
Views
- Experience joy created by light and water June is just the beginning of summer, and it might be too cold to dive into the ocean. However, as it gets warmer and more humid, you might wonder about other options to cool down. Busan, the City of Water, has something different for you. Join citizens and visitors to watch sophisticated water jets dance synchronously to an array of music. Feel your spirits lift as you enjoy a day's performance at the Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dreams.Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dreams offers a spectacular night view with light and music in the early summer night's dream.Kids have fun playing in the fountain.Visit the fountain for a romantic summer night. The Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dreams, situated at the entrance of Dadaepo Beach in southern Busan, was the city's first music fountain. It runs from April to October every year. The fountain is huge. It measures 60 meters in diameter, 180 meters in circumference, and has a 2,519-square-meter fountain floor area, is situated in an area spanning 7,731 square meters. It received a certificate from the Korea Record Institute as Korea's and the world's largest fountain and was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2010. With refreshing streams of water, dazzling lights and music to dance along to, the fountain is a great way to beat the summer heat. Hundreds of people can be seen sitting around the fountain plaza or camped out under thre trees dotting the area. Visitors can play in the water daily for 20 minutes every hour from 2 to 5 p.m. In addition, a 20-minute nighttime musical fountain show is available during the operational period. The fountain offers a majestic view with over 1,000 jets of water dancing to a medley of classical music, jazz and K-pop. The streams of water soar as high as 50 meters into the air. The 20-minute fountain music show is available at 8 p.m. on weekdays and at 8 and 9 p.m. on weekends. In September and October, the shows begin 30 minutes earlier. After the last music show of the day, an additional 10-minute water play period is available. There are no shows on Mondays, and performances can be canceled due to inclement weather, such as gusty wind and heavy rain. For performance details and updates, visit the fountain's official Instagram account below.Address: 14 Morundae 1-gil, Saha-guInstagram: @sunsetfountain_of_dreamInquiry: 051-220-5897 <Vocab Spotlight>diameter: 지름circumference: 둘레dazzling: 눈부신gusty: 거센
- Festivals to cure your spring fever May is "Festival Month" in Busan. Commemorate Buddha's Birthday at temples adorned with lanterns. Celebrate multiculturalism at parks. Appreciate artistic creativity at the city's beaches. Every weekend offers a festive atmosphere for you to enjoy the spring air. Busan is Good offers this handy guide so you can join the fun.Beomeosa Temple■ Busan Lotus Lantern Festival, until May 12The Busan Buddhist Association hosts the Busan Lotus Lantern Festival until May 12 at Songsanghyeon Square in Busanjin-gu District. The must-see lantern parade starts at 7:30 p.m. on May 11. It features 4,000 participants marching a 2.2-kilometer route between Busan Citizens Park and Songsanghyeon Square while carrying colorful lanterns of all shapes and sizes.While Busan's major temples-Samgwangsa Temple, Beomeosa Temple and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple-will showcase stunning lantern displays, small temples citywide will also be illuminated to celebrate the Buddha. Lanterns traditionally come down on May 15, Buddha's Birthday.website: http://www.bba48.or.krGwangalli Eobang Festival■ Gwangalli Eobang Festival, May 10 to 12Starting May 10, the Gwangalli Eobang Festival will take place for three days at Gwangalli Beach. This is one of Busan's representative festivals, a spirited celebration of traditional fishing culture from the Joseon dynasty. "Eobang" refers to the fishing community in Suyeong-gu District, where fishing has been active since ancient times. Visitors can enjoy the Gyeongsang Jwasusa Parade, held in honor of an ancient naval commander from this area. Highlights include a musical based on Eobang folklore and hands-on activities like bare-handed fishing. website: https://www.suyeong.go.kr/festival/index.suyeongGlobal Gathering■ Global Gathering 2024, May 18Global Gathering is Busan's largest multicultural festival, held to commemorate Together Day on May 20. Designated in 2007, Together Day is a national commemorative day to promote a society where Korean nationals and foreign residents respect each other's cultures and traditions while living together in harmony. This year's Global Gathering will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 18 at the Busan Cinema Center in Centum City. Festivalgoers can enjoy traditional performances, cultural experiences and artwork from different countries. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about other cultures and global citizenship through special film screenings. Enjoy English Week booths and programs will provide fun ways for visitors to learn and use English in their daily lives. In addition, the festival will feature a small crafts market for guests to buy interesting cultural trinkets.Finally, BeFM, Busan's English broadcasting station, will record a live show of "All-Star English" to be streamed on its YouTube channel.website: http://globalgathering.co.kr/2024/Haeundae Sand Festival■ Haeundae Sand Festival 2024, May 24 to 27Every spring, Busan's most popular beach transforms into a gallery of amazing and unique sand sculptures. Walking decks help viewers take in each sculpture's incredible complexity and intricate detail.Other programs include a crafts market and various activities. The sculptures will remain on display until June 6 for those who miss the festival period.instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandfestival_haeundae/■ Geumjeongsanseong Festival, May 24 to 26For a consecutive year, the Busan City Festival Promotion Committee selected the Geumjeongsanseong Fortress Festival as one of the best events on the city's calendar. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism also lists it as a top attraction. The festival celebrates the cultural and historical heritage of Geumjeongsan Mountain and Geumjeongsanseong Fortress, the largest fortress in Korea.Festivalgoers can enjoy live performances, tours of the historic grounds, crafts making and cultural experiences. The area is also known for producing "Sanseong makgeolli," a milky and lightly sparkling Korean rice wine. Visitors will have ample opportunity to enjoy makgeolli and other local delicacies.website: http://www.gjfac.org/gjfac/template.php?midx=347&mode=view&intnum=104481 Vocab SpotlightCommemorate: 기념하다adorned: 장식된spirited: 활기찬Together Day: 세계인의 날sculpture: 조각ample: 충분한
- Take me out to the ball game New Lotte manager Kim Tae-hyoung has Giants fans rejoicing. Kim led his previous team, the Doosan Bears, to seven consecutive Korea Series appearances and three championships. Baseball is a BIG hit in Korea. In fact, it is Korea's most popular sport! From late March to early October, throngs of baseball fans fill stadiums to root for their favorite teams. In Busan, Sajik Baseball Stadium in Dongnae-gu District is ground zero for baseball fervor. Families, friends and couples enthusiastically fill the stands, cheering on the hometown Lotte Giants. The Lotte Giants were established in 1975 and were one of the original six founding franchises of the Korean Baseball Organization League in 1982. The Giants have called the 24,000-seat Sajik Baseball Stadium home since 1985. The stadium is, appropriately, located in the heart of Busan, accessed by metro line 3 via Sajik Station or Sports Complex Station. The Giants last won the Korean Series Championship in 1992 and have only made the playoffs once in the last decade. Despite the team regularly finishing at the bottom of the standings, Giants fans, affectionately called "Busan Seagulls," are arguably the most passionate fanbase on the peninsula. The Seagulls flock to Sajik on game days and create an atmosphere usually associated with college basketball in the United States or pro football in England. Giants fans cheer with a burning passion. For Busanites, there is no better place to shout or sing aloud than Sajik Stadium. It is a safe space to be rowdy and boisterous. Led by professional cheerleaders, the 24,000-strong fanbase scream with joy or groan in frustration with every pitch, hit, out or homerun. In between the action, fans encourage the team, with each player on the Giants roster showered with his own unique song or chant. For visitors and citizens, attending a game at Sajik Stadium is a worthwhile experience. Even if you do not enjoy sports, it is difficult not to get swept up in Giants fever. The energy, passion and camaraderie of the Seagulls is infectious. By the fourth inning, you will join the crowd as it screams, "Ma! Ma! Ma!" at opposing players. Plus, baseball is not the only offering at Sajik Stadium; an equally alluring draw is the food and drink. On game days, vendors inside and outside the stadium sell all manner of tasty treats, beyond peanuts and Cracker Jack. The crack of a bat and the pop of a mitt are just background music for a Korean soul food feast of fried chicken, gimbap, pizza and sweet and spicy tteokbokki. Stop by the Homeplus, a large retail market, near the stadium and stock up on snacks and plastic bottles of beer. KBO League games are played every day of the week except Monday, so there is a good chance the Giants will be home either during the week or on weekends through the beginning of October. Join the action and experience Busan's one-of-a-kind love for baseball. Warm sunshine. A cool breeze. Hot fried chicken. Ice-cold beer. Attending a Lotte Giants game at Sajik Stadium is a grand slam.■ Sajik Baseball Stadium• Address: 45 Sajik-ro, Dongnae-gu• Tickets: 3,000 won to 55,000 won• Website: giantsclub.com• Note: Glass bottles are not permitted inside the stadium. Up to 1L of plastic bottled beer is allowed per person.■ Upcoming games at Sajik Stadium <Voca Spotlight>rejoicing: 기뻐하다consecutive: 연속적인throngs: 군중affectionately: 애정 어린aloud: 큰 소리로rowdy: 소란스러운boisterous: 시끌벅적한groan: 신음소리