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• Last Korean Culture Experience of the Year Join Busan Hangul School for the last Korean Culture Experience Program of the year! Enjoy a full day of fun—from soaring over the coast on the Songdo Marine Cable Car and riding the Taejongdae Danubi Train to trying your hand at making fish cakes and exploring the immersive Arte Museum. You’ll also get to watch the Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop musical, meet the cast during a photo session on stage, and capture a group photo at the photo zone. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the year with unforgettable Korean cultural moments! ∑ Application for Busan Hangul School - Korean Culture Experience Program (Session 7)○ Program Title : Busan in One Perfect Day: From Sky & Sea to Light & Taste○ Date & Time : December 13, 2025 (Sat) | 09:00 - 16:00, 40 participants | Single-day program○ Meeting & Dismissal Location : Busan Station Exit 2 - Songdo / Taejongdae / Yeongdo○ Program Schedule : Songdo Marine Cable Car - Taejongdae Danubi Train - Fish Cake Making Experience - ARTE Museum○ Participation Fee : 30,000 KRW▶ Participate : https://forms.gle/xcQgeYC2w8iLnhjRA ∑ Application for Busan Hangul School - Korean Culture Experience Program (Session 8)○ Program Title : Experience a Heartwarming Year-End K-Musical: Welcome to Hoonam-dong Bookstore※ A bestselling production exported to 25 countries worldwide○ Program Details : Musical Hoonam-dong Bookstore Performance Viewing - Photo Time with Cast & Stage Background - Group Photo at the Photo Zone○ Participation Fee : Free of charge▶ Participate : https://forms.gle/WGbY3TK6TRuz8Y2p7
• BeFM Kids makes learning English fun Sam Hammington and his sons entertain and teach viewers.　Busan English Broadcasting has unveiled BeFM Kids, a new YouTube channel for teaching children English. Videos primarily target children under 10, aiming to provide natural exposure to English and foster an easy, fun learning experience. The various materials offered through the channel are strategically designed to elevate the quality of public English education services by thoroughly considering children's developmental levels and interests.　The programs include a maze-solving game featuring Boogi, Busan's mascot, and a video series teaching practical English phrases for various activities, such as taekwondo and K-pop dance. Popular entertainer Sam Hammington and his sons will also lead a storytelling-style segment with performances such as cooking and scientific experiments. Nancy, a beloved K-pop idol from the group Momoland, will deliver K-pop-related expressions, while children can also explore Korean folktales, including stories about Busan, told in English. 　For young learners encountering English for the first time, the channel will offer a phonics program designed to build strong foundation skills. A video series featuring English Waves, an original language-learning resource developed by Busan City, will provide short yet helpful recaps of textbook expressions. 　Since the full content slate will roll out gradually, viewers are encouraged to subscribe to stay updated on the channel's latest offerings.Go to BeFM Kids ▷ Click <한글로 읽기>어린이 영어공부 더 쉽고 재미있게 'BeFM Kids'부산영어방송(Busan English Broadcasting)이 어린이 영어교육을 위한 신규 유튜브 채널 ‘BeFM Kids’를 선보였다. 이 채널은 만 10세 미만 어린이를 주요 대상으로, 자연스러운 영어 노출을 돕고 쉽고 재미있게 배울 수 있는 환경을 제공하는 데 목표를 두고 있다. 아동의 발달 단계와 관심사를 반영한 다양한 교육 콘텐츠를 통해 공공 영어교육 서비스의 질을 높이겠다는 취지다.프로그램은 부산시 마스코트 부기가 등장하는 미로 찾기 게임, 태권도·K-팝 댄스 등 활동 상황별로 실용 영어표현을 배우는 영상 시리즈 등을 포함한다. 인기 방송인 샘 해밍턴과 그의 두 아들은 요리·과학 실험 등 퍼포먼스를 곁들인 스토리텔링 코너를 맡는다. 모모랜드 출신의 인기 K-팝 아이돌 낸시는 K-팝 관련 영어 표현을 소개하며, 부산 이야기를 포함한 한국의 전래동화를 영어로 들려주는 콘텐츠도 마련된다.영어를 처음 접하는 어린이를 위해서는 기초를 탄탄히 다질 수 있는 파닉스 프로그램을 운영한다. 또 부산시가 자체 개발한 영어교육 자료 ‘English Waves’를 활용한 짧고 유익한 교과 연계 표현 복습 영상도 제공한다.전체 콘텐츠는 순차적으로 공개될 예정이며, 최신 소식을 확인하고 싶다면 채널 구독을 권장한다. 
• Busan takes top honors at LivCom Awards for people-first urban planning Busan won two major prizes at the 2025 LivCom Awards, a UN－backed organization that promotes sustainable urban development.　Busan's signature 15-Minute City initiative continues to elevate the city's global standing, earning top honors at the 2025 LivCom Awards.　On Nov. 21 in Istanbul, Turkiye, Busan received the Gold Award in the Whole City category and a Criteria Award for Sustainable Planning and Management Policies.　Founded in 1997, the United Nations-backed LivCom Awards recognize excellence in local environmental management and urban development aimed at improving quality of life. Now in its 23rd year, the awards received 281 submissions from 52 countries, with 30 cities and 37 projects advancing to the finals.　Busan delivered its final presentation on Nov. 20, highlighting the core pillars of its 15-Minute City initiative, which adapts the global concept to the city's distinct geography. The initiative focuses on strengthening neighborhood connectivity, enhancing walkability and fostering resident-centered development. Officials emphasized Busan's shift from a development-driven model to a people-first urban culture that prioritizes pedestrians over cars.The F1963 culture complex has a cafe and bookstore.　Key examples include the Happy Challenge Project, which promotes vibrant, walkable communities; Busan Citizens Park, transformed from a former U.S. military base into a major public space; F1963, a repurposed factory turned cultural hub; and the Our Neighborhood ESG Centers, which combine senior employment with environmental programs.　Competing in Group E, cities with populations exceeding one million, Busan stood alongside global peers such as Vienna, Sao Paulo and Baoding, China, before ultimately claiming the Gold Award. It also earned the highest score among all finalists for its sustainable planning and management practices.　Judges praised Busan's innovative integration of sustainability into everyday life and noted that its 15-Minute City initiative offers a compelling model for cities seeking more livable, human-centered environments.<한글로 읽기>부산, ‘사람 중심 도시계획’으로 리브컴 어워즈 수상부산시의 대표 정책인 ‘15분 도시’가 국제적 위상을 다시 한번 입증했다. 부산시는 2025년 리브컴 어워즈에서 도시 전체 부문 금상(Gold Award)과 지속가능한 계획·관리 정책 분야 우수상(Criteria Award)을 동시에 수상했다. 시상식은 지난 11월 21일 튀르키예 이스탄불에서 열렸다.1997년 창설된 리브컴 어워즈는 유엔이 후원하는 국제상으로, 지역 환경관리와 도시개발의 우수 사례를 선정해 시민 삶의 질 향상을 도모하는 데 목적이 있다. 23회를 맞은 올해에는 52개국 281건이 접수됐으며, 이 중 30개 도시와 37개 프로젝트가 본선에 진출했다.부산시는 11월 20일 본선 발표에서 부산만의 지형적 특성을 반영한 ‘15분 도시’ 전략의 핵심 내용을 소개했다. 특히 생활권 간 연결성 강화, 보행환경 개선, 주민 중심 개발 등 ‘사람 중심 도시문화’로의 전환을 강조했다. 자동차보다 보행자를 우선하는 도시로 나아가겠다는 방향성도 분명히 제시됐다.대표 사례로는 걷기 좋은 생활권을 조성하는 ‘해피챌린지 프로젝트’, 미군 기지 부지를 대규모 공원으로 재탄생시킨 ‘부산시민공원’, 산업시설을 복합문화공간으로 탈바꿈한 ‘F1963’, 시니어 일자리와 환경 프로그램을 결합한 ‘우리동네 ESG 센터’ 등이 소개됐다.인구 100만 명 이상 도시가 속한 E그룹에서 비엔나, 상파울루, 중국 바오딩 등 세계 주요 도시들과 경쟁한 부산은 결국 최고상인 금상을 거머쥐었다. 지속가능한 정책·관리 분야에서는 전체 본선 진출 도시 가운데 가장 높은 평가를 받았다.심사위원들은 “부산은 지속가능성을 일상 속에 자연스럽게 통합한 점이 돋보이며, 15분 도시 전략은 보다 살기 좋고 사람 중심적인 도시를 추구하는 세계 도시들에 모범을 제시한다”고 평가했다. 

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Enjoy Busan

• The lights are brightly shining When winter settles over Busan, the city doesn't dim －it shines. Neighborhood by neighborhood, brilliant light displays transform coastal parks, bustling streets and sandy beaches into glowing nighttime escapes. From whimsical installations to immersive media art, Busan's winter festivals offer the perfect reason to step outside, bundle up and explore the city after dark.The Millac Luce FestaThe Millac Luce Festa lights up Millak Waterside Park.The Millac Luce Festa lights up Millak Waterside Park.■ Millac Luce Festa＊Until Jan. 31　＊ Lights on 6 to 11:30 p.m. daily　Returning with more vibrant displays and a richer lineup, the Millac Luce Festa once again lights up Millak Waterside Park. Introduced just last year, it quickly became a beloved winter attraction thanks to its warm, fairy-tale atmosphere.　This year's edition follows Muse, a wandering cat searching for musical notes scattered across the park. Visitors follow Muse's journey along a bright, immersive path that connects a media gallery, Luminaria displays and photo areas. New features include LED Gobo projections that cast a constellation across the ground and garden-in-winter installations. 　Every weekend, the festival buzzes with performances, filling the park with lively energy. It also introduces a midnight camping zone and the nearby Suyeong Winter Market offers handcrafted goods, warm treats, and local specialties.There is always something new to amaze Haeundae Light Festival visitors. The Haeundae Light Festival has been drawing large crowds for over a decade.■ Haeundae Light Festival＊Until Jan. 18　＊Lights on 6 to 11 p.m. daily　Haeundae may be famous for its summer sunshine, but in winter the warmth returns in the form of glowing lights. The 12th Haeundae Light Festival transforms Gunam-ro and Haeundae Beach into a starry coastal walkway inspired by this year's theme, "Stellar Haeundae." Imagined as starlight drifting in like gentle waves, the design brings soft, luminous charm to the district's lively streets.　Visitors are welcomed by Starlight Gate, a glowing entrance on Gunam-ro that sets the tone for the experience ahead. The Stellar Wave Zone leads toward the beach, guiding visitors with atmospheric light arrangements. At the center of Gunam-ro, a striking star-shaped installation becomes a seasonal highlight, its four-meter structure capturing the shimmering moment a star bursts into light. Trees of varying heights add a festive, classic holiday mood and warm year-end charm.　Down by the sea, Haeundae Square hosts daily programs from 6 to 10 p.m., including sand art, line art, pedal-powered bicycles and a winter photo booth. Around Christmas, visitors can take playful four-cut photos complete with fun seasonal props.　The beach itself turns into a dreamy galaxy. The Haeundae Universe Zone features a 10-meter earth-shaped media art piece and a 180-meter illuminated path dotted with planets, stars and even a glowing spaceship. It's a whimsical, walk-through universe set against Haeundae's pale sand, perfect for couples, families and anyone who loves nighttime strolls.The Seomyeon Light Festival amps up the holiday spirit downtown.■ Seomyeon Light Festival＊Until Feb. 24　＊Lights on 6 to 11 p.m. daily　Right in the heart of Busan, Seomyeon glows with urban charm as the Seomyeon Light Festival returns for its sixth year. Under the theme "Light Station," it brings rest, romance and excitement to the city's busiest streets.　Across Seomyeon 1-beon-ga, five themed zones offer colorful displays and engaging photo spots. The main attraction, Light Station, symbolizes Seomyeon's role as a bustling transit hub and serves as the festival's lively starting point. Golden lights sweep across the streets, adding sparkle and warmth to the district's nightlife.　Fireworks-inspired displays, glowing trees and festive backdrops create an irresistible evening atmosphere for friends, couples and families. The Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival is a staple of Busan winters.■ Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival＊Until Feb. 22　＊Lights on 5:30 to 10 p.m. daily　A cornerstone of Busan's holiday season, the Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival invites visitors into a world filled with brilliant, vivid light. This year's theme, "K-Nuri," blends "K" for Korea with "nuri," meaning "world," symbolizing a bright, imaginative journey through Korean culture.　More than 100 illuminated displays turn the streets into a radiant corridor. Media trees, shimmering arches and a fountain of light set a festive scene, while installations infused with Korean humor and tradition add delightful surprises. Keep an eye out for a tiger wearing a traditional "gat," or a figure sporting the iconic "hahoe" mask. Abundant photo spots and cheerful street gardens create an inviting atmosphere for anyone hoping to experience Busan's vibrant winter spirit.
• The lights are brightly shining source: visitbusanWhen winter settles over Busan, the city doesn't dim －it shines. Neighborhood by neighborhood, brilliant light displays transform coastal parks, bustling streets and sandy beaches into glowing nighttime escapes. From whimsical installations to immersive media art, Busan's winter festivals offer the perfect reason to step outside, bundle up and explore the city after dark.🌟 Haeundae Light Festival＊Until Jan. 18　＊Lights on 6 to 11 p.m. dailyHaeundae may be famous for its summer sunshine, but in winter the warmth returns in the form of glowing lights. The 12th Haeundae Light Festival transforms Gunam-ro and Haeundae Beach into a starry coastal walkway inspired by this year's theme, "Stellar Haeundae." Imagined as starlight drifting in like gentle waves, the design brings soft, luminous charm to the district's lively streets.Visitors are welcomed by Starlight Gate, a glowing entrance on Gunam-ro that sets the tone for the experience ahead. The Stellar Wave Zone leads toward the beach, guiding visitors with atmospheric light arrangements. At the center of Gunam-ro, a striking star-shaped installation becomes a seasonal highlight, its four-meter structure capturing the shimmering moment a star bursts into light. Trees of varying heights add a festive, classic holiday mood and warm year-end charm.Down by the sea, Haeundae Square hosts daily programs from 6 to 10 p.m., including sand art, line art, pedal-powered bicycles and a winter photo booth. Around Christmas, visitors can take playful four-cut photos complete with fun seasonal props.The beach itself turns into a dreamy galaxy. The Haeundae Universe Zone features a 10-meter earth-shaped media art piece and a 180-meter illuminated path dotted with planets, stars and even a glowing spaceship. It's a whimsical, walk-through universe set against Haeundae's pale sand, perfect for couples, families and anyone who loves nighttime strolls.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>dim: 흐릿해지다 bustling: 북적거리는 luminous: 빛나는 charm: 매력 atmospheric: 분위기 있는Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Exploring YOLO Galmaetgil ⑨ YOLO Route 8 source: visitbusanThe YOLO Galmaetgil Trails invite visitors to experience scenic hikes along the city's natural and cultural resources."YOLO" reflects both "you only live once" and the local dialect for "come here," blending global and regional meaning. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.🏃🏻‍♂️ YOLO Route 8The Nakdong Jeongmaek Trail spans 6.7 kilometers along the ridge east of the Nakdonggang River. The journey begins at Flower Village, so named for its abundance of wild blooms, and quickly leads into the wooded serenity of Gudeok Culture Park.From there, the trail climbs Gudeoksan Mountain and reaches Jaeneomi Maruteo, a key junction that guides hikers toward Seunghaksan Mountain. Along this ridge, vast fields of silver grass stretch across the slopes, creating a shimmering autumn landscape. The Eoksae Noeul Observatory rewards hikers with views of the Nakdonggang River and Dadaepo Beach.A gentle descent leads to Dangri Jeseokgol, where tree-lined paths fill the air with a refreshing scent of cedar. This route captures the harmony of Busan's mountain ridges, seasonal colors and river views in a single hike.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>reflect: 반영하다 regional: 지역적인 abundance: 풍요 serenity: 고요함  vast: 거대한 shimmering: 반짝이는 descent: 내리막 ridge: 산등성이Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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Food

• Local ingredients with global ambitions 　For its final installment, "Bite Into Busan" highlights two standout restaurants that blend artistry, innovation and local flavor. Each stop appears in both the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, and is known for signature dishes that showcase the city's evolving culinary identity.　This finale explores contemporary cuisine, a style that reinvents tradition through creative technique. Chefs build on familiar flavors while pushing boundaries with bold ideas, inventive pairings and elegant, often dramatic plating. The result is a multisensory experience that honors heritage while embracing modern expression.The lobster at Palate is grilled over charcoal and served with a lobster bisque sauce.Hanwoo steak at Palate.　Spanish mackerel at Palate.　■Palate (팔레트)　At Palate, a one-Michelin-starred restaurant atop Dalmaji-gil, Chef Jae-hoon Kim applies his classic French training and global perspective to local ingredients.　Kim's menu showcases the abundance of Busan's high-quality ingredients; local kelp flavors his butter and ice cream, the seafood is from the ocean outside Palate's windows and his signature duck is sourced from a farm in nearby Gimhae.* Address: 3F, 154 Dalmaji-gil 65beon-gil, Haeundae-gu* Hours: Open for lunch, noon to 3 p.m. Open for dinner, 6 to 10 p.m. Last order at 7 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.* Menu: Lunch Course 88,000 won; Dinner Course 200,000 wonBlack pig pasta served in a rich pork broth at Le Dorer. Duck noodles from Le Dorer.　Cucumber sorbet from Le Dorer.　The dessert course at Le Dorer includes chocolate walnuts, fig bonbons and cookie sandwiches.■Le Dorer (르도헤)　Le Dorer presents a modern take on Korean contemporary cuisine, using Busan's local ingredients as the foundation for its distinctive courses. Each dish reflects the city's flavors through an inventive, chef-driven perspective.* Address: 2F, 37 Marine City 3-ro, Haeundae-gu* Hours: Open for lunch, noon to 2:30 p.m. Open for dinner, 6 to 10 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.* Menu: Lunch Course 120,000 won; Dinner Course 210,000 won
• Bite Into Busan ⑤ French & Italian source: Taste of 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. In this edition, we turn our focus to two timeless rivals that have long defined Europe's culinary landscape: French and Italian cuisines. In Busan, you can skip the flights and still savor the essence of both. Discover the meticulous artistry and refined sophistication of French cuisine and the elegant simplicity of Italian dishes that celebrate the pure flavors of each ingredient. 🍝 Delibong 델리봉Delibong, run by owner-chef Jeong-bong Park, offers French cuisine with a focus on charcuterie. Upon the first visit, guests may be a little confused by the lack of a signboard, but a feast is underway inside.*Address: 3F, 4 Millak-ro 27beon-gil, Suyeong-gu🍝 Ramsey 램지At Ramsey, Chef Gyu-jin Lee highlights local ingredients in his innovative approach to classic French cuisine. Every beautiful dish has a French sensibility but a Korean soul. The restaurant is situated in a warm, spacious area with windows overlooking the Gwangandaegyo Bridge.*Address: 3F, 38 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu🍝 Outro by Vito 아웃트로 바이 비토After studying at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners, Chef Sang-jin Kim, also known as Vito, returned home to serve his fellow Busanites fresh pasta. For over 14 years, diners have flocked to Outro, drawn by the delicious pastas and the genius-level seasoning on display in Vito's expertly crafted protein and seafood dishes. Each table is illuminated by a spotlight, forcing diners to keep their attention on the food - as it should be.*Address: 1F, 18 Millakbondong-ro 19beon-gil, Suyeong-gu🍝 Cor Pasta bar 코르 파스타 바Honored as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, Cor Pasta Bar is located in a quiet building in the Jeonpo-dong neighborhood. This restaurant is run by a chef who puts his heart and soul into housemade pastas, sauces and bread. Try the bottarga pasta with sea urchin and fish roe. The wine menu is great, with pairings done by the chef.*Address: 2F, 13 Dongseong-ro 25beon-gil, Busanjin-gu🍝 Osteria Aboo 오스테리어 어부Osteria Aboo in Jeonpo-dong shines a spotlight on Southern Italian flavors, offering a menu rich in seafood-driven dishes. Known for standouts like its sweet shrimp bisque pasta and fried calamari, the restaurant highlights fresh ocean ingredients in true coastal Italian style. Paired with wines selected by the chef, each dish offers a satisfying taste of Southern Italy.Osteria Aboo is only open to reservations, which can be made through the CatchTable dining app.*Address: 1F, 58 Dongcheon-ro, Busanjin-gu※Restaurant information may be subject to change.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어> timeless: 세월이 흘러도 변치않는 savor: 풍미 essence: 본질 artistry: 예술적인 기교 simplicity: 단순함 ingredient: 재료 innovative: 혁신적인 spacious: 넓은 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• European fine dining in the City by the Sea 　"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. 　In this edition, we turn our focus to two timeless rivals that have long defined Europe's culinary landscape: French and Italian cuisines. In Busan, you can skip the flights and still savor the essence of both. 　Discover the meticulous artistry and refined sophistication of French cuisine and the elegant simplicity of Italian dishes that celebrate the pure flavors of each ingredient. ■Delibong 델리봉　Delibong, run by owner-chef Jeong-bong Park, offers French cuisine with a focus on charcuterie. Upon the first visit, guests may be a little confused by the lack of signboard, but there is a feast going on inside.*Address: 3F, 4 Millak-ro 27beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*google map: Click ■Ramsey 램지　At Ramsey, Chef Gyu-jin Lee highlights local ingredients in his innovative approach to classic French cuisine. Every beautiful dish has a French sensibility but a Korean soul. The restaurant is in a warm space with windows overlooking Gwangandaegyo Bridge.*Address: 3F, 38 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Google map: Click ■Outro by Vito 아웃트로 바이 비토　After studying at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners, Chef Sang-jin Kim, also known as Vito, returned home to serve his fellow Busanites fresh pasta. For over 14 years, diners have flocked to Outro, drawn by delicious pastas and the genius-level seasoning on display in Vito's protein and seafood cookery. Each table is illuminated by a spotlight, forcing diners to keep their attention on the food - as it should be.*Address: 1F, 18 Millakbondong-ro 19beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Google map: Click ■Cor Pasta bar 코르 파스타 바　Honored as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, Cor Pasta Bar is located in a quiet building in the Jeonpo-dong neighborhood. This restaurant is run by a chef who puts his heart and soul into housemade pastas, sauces and bread. Try the bottarga pasta with sea urchin and fish roe. The wine menu is great with pairing done by the chef.*Address: 2F, 13 Dongseong-ro 25beon-gil, Busanjin-gu*Google map: Click ■Osteria Aboo 오스테리어 어부　Osteria Aboo in Jeonpo-dong puts the spotlight on Southern Italian flavors, with a menu rich in seafood-driven dishes. Known for standouts like its sweet shrimp bisque pasta and fried calamari, the restaurant highlights fresh ocean ingredients in true coastal Italian style. Paired with wines selected by the chef, each dish offers a satisfying taste of Southern Italy.　Osteria Aboo is only open to reservations, which can be made through the dining app, CatchTable.*Address: 1F, 58 Dongcheon-ro, Busanjin-gu*Google map: Click※Restaurant information may be subject to change.

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Life

• [INTERVIEW] "The goal is to … have some elite players come out of Busan" Former tennis pro Sergio Rojas lives and coaches in Busan.　"If I Were Reborn, I Would Live in Busan Too," a web series on BusanTube, the city's official YouTube channel, has released its fifth episode. The series features people from various backgrounds as they share their personal experiences of living in Busan. The videos offer a glimpse of life in Busan through the eyes of non-Koreans, highlighting the city's distinctive charms from a fresh perspective. 　The latest episode features Sergio Rojas, an enthusiastic tennis coach from Peru. Busan is Good spoke to Coach Rojas about the life and career he has built in the city.　The full episodes of "If I Were Reborn, I Would Live in Busan Too" are now available on BusanTube(Click). Q. Could you please introduce yourself?A.　Hello. I'm Sergio Rojas from Peru. I'm a tennis coach and former professional tennis player. I played in some good tournaments, like the Davis Cup and junior grand slams, and coached at pro tournaments like the U.S. Open. I have traveled all over the world as a player, coach and backpacker. 　I came to Korea for the first time almost 14 years ago, just for travel and out of curiosity. I ended up working with the great coach Hyung-Taik Lee in Chuncheon Song-am Sports Town. Six years ago, my wife and I decided to move from Seoul to Busan because of the beach and the weather. I really missed the beach, since I've lived by it most of my life. I love the beach so much that I can spend the whole day there. Q. How did you first start playing tennis?A.　I started playing tennis in Peru when I was 5 years old. It wasn't very easy to play tennis in Peru at that time because you had to be a member of one of the few big private clubs. Luckily for me, the tennis federation club was near my house; it was one of the very few places where you could join the academy or rent a court. They had a program for little kids to start playing, and my dad signed me up. I liked it, and as soon as I started playing tournaments, I got hooked. Q. Could you briefly share your personal coaching philosophy?A.　To me, the most important thing is to create a strong base. When you learn the basics really well and have a strong base, you feel confident and can solve any technique-related problem. That, and to try to relate your sport to other areas of your life. The discipline and strength you develop to reach a high level in tennis stay with you forever and can be applied to other areas of your life. That's a great source of motivation.Q. Do you have proud coaching moments in Busan?A.　I have some good tennis memories here in Busan. One of them is starting a tennis program at Busan Foreign School. They really opened the doors for me, and within a few weeks, I had 20 students playing tennis inside the school every Saturday. 　My second good memory is helping a junior player, Junseo Jang, in his training and seeing him a year later win the highest international tournaments in his category in the U.S.A and other countries. 　The last one is seeing my son playing tennis at the academy (Rojas Tennis Academy) since he was around 4 years old, and making good tennis friends. Q. When comparing life and people in Peru and Busan, what differences or similarities have you noticed?A.　I find similarities in the way we eat. Peruvians eat very similarly to Koreans in general. We eat rice every day, lots of seafood and spicy food. In terms of friendship, there is a big contrast; Latin Americans are very quick to make friends and don't have different circles of friends. But people here tend to have different circles of friends (work, sports, etc.). I respect the ability people here have to do things in large groups. I'm starting to like it as I find my way to fit into the Korean friendship style. Compared to other parts of Korea, I like the energy of the people in Busan. Q. What goals would you like to achieve in the tennis scene here in Busan or in Korea?A.　With the help of the Haeundae Tennis Association, I just started my tennis academy at the Songjeong Tennis Park this October. The goal is to make it a competitive academy, to have many players enjoy tennis, and, hopefully, in the future, have some elite players come out of Busan. Q. What advice would you give to young players or anyone who wants to start learning tennis?A.　To a young player or anyone starting tennis, my advice is to listen to your coach, learn the basics right, don't copy the pros and find your own style. 
• A newspaper for kids, by kids: Big Eye DoranDoran is recruiting students to write in 2026 Big Eye DoranDoran (Big 아이 도란도란), Busan’s official children’s newspaper, is recruiting young reporters for its 2026 cohort. The program invites curious kids to explore the city, attend events and share what they discover through their own unique voices. Applications are open until Dec. 31.The young reporters will be active from March 2026 to February 2027 and will write various stories, including:• Articles that capture firsthand experiences at different events.• Special features on Busan’s hot issues.• Monthly mission journals based on special assignments.• Open-topic articles that allow students to explore subjects of their choice.• Interviews with people they are excited to meet.During school breaks, students can also join journalism classes to boost their writing skills.To help kids fully step into the role, every reporter receives a media pass, a reporter’s notebook and even a classic reporter’s cap. At the kick-off ceremony, a professional journalist will teach the basics of gathering news, writing articles and editing stories. Each month, an outstanding piece will be named Report of the Month, and winners will receive a small monetary prize. Top stories of the year will also be honored at the closing ceremony.Any enthusiastic writer in 4th, 5th, or 6th grade may apply. Applicants must submit a 100 to 300-character article (in Korean) on the theme: “Busan, a charming city of cultural tourism.”Applications should be submitted through the Naver form linked below.Big Eye DoranDoran will accept 300 students, including an additional 30 from multicultural or foreign-national backgrounds, for a total of 330 young reporters. The final selection will be made by lottery, with consideration for sincerity expressed in the application and even representation across Busan’s districts.Kids and parents can find the written work of the 2025 reporters and complete program details on the official Busan Eye Dorandoran website.※ Recruitment for Busan Children’s Newspaper, until Dec. 31◎ Announcement: https://buly.kr/9XMLI6H◎ Application Form: naver.me/G8hHubfJ◎ Inquiries: 051-888-1298<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>cohort: 집단 assignment: 과제 outstanding: 뛰어난 enthusiastic: 열정적인 sincerity: 진정성 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Busan Winter Light Festivals: Reader Photos & One-line Stories Wanted! source: getty image✨ Share Your Bright Winter Moments with Busan is Good! ✨This winter, Busan shines with four unique light festivals — from beaches to downtown streets — and we want to see them through your lens!Send us your best photos from any of the Busan Winter Light Festivals and a short one-line story about your experience.<Eligible Festivals>🌟Haeundae Light Festival — Haeundae Beach (until Jan. 18)🌟Milac Luce Festa — Millak Waterside Park (until Jan. 31)🌟Gwangbok-ro Winter Light Tree Festival — Gwangbok-ro (until Feb. 22)🌟Seomyeon Light Festival — Seomyeon 1-beon-ga (until Feb. 24)Selected entries will be featured on the Busan is Good website or other online platform, and a small contributor’s fee will be provided.📅 Submission Deadline: December 21, 2025 (Sun)💰 Reward: Selected participants will receive a small contributor’s fee.※Participation: Click

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• The pleasures of life by a riverside YOLO Galmaetgil Route 9 runs through Samnak Eco Park, which best exemplifies Busan's desire to build a city where humans and nature coexist.Samnak Eco Park boasts several fields for various sports.The park's wide open fields offer plenty of space for dogs and their owners to run around.Busan citizens are among the happiest in the nation thanks to ample green spaces that allow families to spend time outdoors.The park is also a wildlife refuge for migratory birds.■ YOLO Route 9　YOLO Galmaetgil Route 9, known as "Samnakgil Pleasures of Life," offers a refreshing look at western Busan as it traces the peaceful Nakdonggang River through Samnak Eco Park. Starting at Gwaebeop Renecite Station on the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit, the 8.7-kilometer trail heads south toward the lotus fields before looping north through the park's spacious riverside grounds.　Even in late autumn, the park stays lively with locals exercising, cycling or enjoying a stroll. The cool air and gentle sunlight create an inviting atmosphere, and the landscape feels open and generous. Covering nearly five square kilometers, Samnak Eco Park features extensive outdoor sports facilities, from soccer and baseball fields to tennis courts and park golf courses, as well as areas for archery, rugby and inline skating.　Near Samnak Riverside Sports Park, the Lawn Square spreads out in a sweeping patch of green － soft, wide, and perfect for dogs to run freely. To the north, golden reed fields line the riverbank, swaying like a quiet forest and drawing couples in search of cinematic wedding photos.　The route also offers regular encounters with migratory birds resting in ponds and marshes. Each winter, species such as spot-billed ducks, bean geese, swans and slender-billed gulls return to nest, adding a peaceful rhythm to the walk. Visitors are encouraged to admire the birds from a respectful distance.YOLO Guide: Click
• Where silver grass shimmers and cedar scents linger 　The YOLO Galmaetgil Trails invite visitors to experience scenic hikes along the city's natural and cultural resources.　"YOLO" reflects both "you only live once" and the local dialect for "come here," blending global and regional meaning. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.The beloved silver grass fields on Seonghaksan Mountain.　The Nakdong Jeongmaek Trail spans 6.7 kilometers along the ridge east of the Nakdonggang River. The journey begins at Flower Village, so named for its abundance of wild blooms, and quickly leads into the wooded serenity of Gudeok Culture Park.　From there, the trail climbs Gudeoksan Mountain and reaches Jaeneomi Maruteo, a key junction that guides hikers toward Seunghaksan Mountain. Along this ridge, vast fields of silver grass stretch across the slopes, creating a shimmering autumn landscape. The Eoksae Noeul Observatory  rewards hikers with views of the Nakdonggang River and Dadaepo Beach.　A gentle descent leads to Dangri Jeseokgol, where tree-lined paths fill the air with a refreshing cedar scent. This route captures the harmony of Busan's mountain ridges, seasonal colors and river views in a single hike.Gudeok Culture ParkEoksae Noeul ObservatoryPeople enjoying the autumn silver grass.A forest filled with the healing scent of cedarwood.
• An inviting fortress atop Busan's tallest mountain 　The YOLO Galmaetgil Trails invite visitors to experience scenic hikes along the city's natural and cultural resources.　"YOLO" reflects both "you only live once" and the local dialect for "come here," blending global and regional meaning. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Geumjeongsanseong Fortress■ YOLO Route 10　Route 10, fondly known as "Picnic at Geumjeongsanseong Fortress," is a scenic 10-kilometer trail stretching from Gupo Station to Geumjeongsanseong Village. Geumbit Noeul Bridge　The first highlight is Geumbit Noeul Bridge, where fiery skies dip over the Nakdonggang River. By day, it links bustling Gupo Market to tranquil Hwamyeong Eco Park; by night, colorful lights create a romantic backdrop for evening strolls.Hwamyeong Eco ParkThe glasshouse at Hwamyeong Arboretum　Hwamyeong Eco Park shines in autumn, with rows of golden-brown metasequoias, and swaying silver grass. Nearby, Hwamyeong Arboretum － Busan's first public arboretum － displays themed gardens and seasonal wildflowers.Geumjeongsanseong Village　The route continues to the western gate of Geumjeongsanseong Fortress, Korea's largest mountain stronghold, before ending at Geumjeongsanseong Village. Here, visitors savor local delicacies like black goat bulgogi and Sanseong Makgeolli.YOLO Guide : Click

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