Busan is good

News

• Busan tourism broke records in 2025. In 2026, they’re falling faster source: Busan Tourism ArchiveBusan has hit a major tourism milestone: 1,023,946 foreign visitors arrived in the first quarter of 2026, crossing the 1 million mark faster than ever before. While the city saw a record 3.64 million global visitors last year, this year’s million-visitor threshold was crossed in March, a full month earlier than in 2025, the quickest pace since official tracking began in 2014.The top four visitor groups by country were consistent with last year: Taiwan (208,984 visitors), China (197,958), Japan (130,217), the United States (81,437) and Vietnam (44,352). Visitor spending rose in step, reaching 235.5 billion won, a 26.4% increase year-on-year.City officials point to three key drivers behind the surge in global visitors: The expansion of marine leisure and cruise tourism, the Visit Busan Pass and targeted global marketing.First, efforts to boost cruise tourism have been fruitful. Extending terminal operating hours, upgrading port-of-call experiences with local festivals, food, and cultural programs, and attracting a wider range of vessels — including worldwide cruise ships and Korea's first Fly·Rail&Cruise homeport cruise — pushed both visitor numbers and spending sharply upward.With the number of tourists arriving via cruises from China reaching 180,388 in the first quarter alone — a significant increase from 57,964 during the same period last year — the city expects approximately 800,000 people to visit Busan by cruise this year, more than double the number from last year.Second, the Visit Busan Pass remains a popular option for travelers and boasts a 97% user satisfaction rating. The all-in-one tourist pass, available only to international visitors, grants users exclusive discounts on transportation, attractions, shopping and more.The Visit Busan Pass has been upgraded to enhance users’ convenience, including integration with digital payment services such as LINE and AliPay. It is also now available at major hubs around Seoul, including Incheon and Gimpo international airports. Sales rose roughly 65% compared to the same period last year.On the marketing side, Busan's recognition by Expedia as the “best-value overseas destination” for Japan's Golden Week gave the city a strong platform. Busan leveraged that moment through Japanese media and online and offline channels, targeting short-haul travelers drawn to affordability and quality. For the Chinese market, content tied to the spring flower season tapped into the rapidly growing appetite for outdoor and experiential travel, drawing visitors looking for something beyond standard sightseeing.Looking ahead, the BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’ IN BUSAN on June 12 and 13 is expected to drive another wave of international visitors and lift repeat visit numbers heading into the second half of the year. With sharper, market-specific campaigns, greater convenience and a growing global profile, Busan is proving its dedication to being a city good for travel—and the numbers clearly agree.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>consistent with: ~와 일치하는 surge: 급등 fruitful: 수확이 많이 난 attraction: 관광명소 integration: 통합 leverage: 유리하게 사용하다  affordability: 수용가능성 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   
• Busan rises, ranks 23rd on Global Financial Centres Index  The city recently completed Phase 3 of the Busan International Finance Center, a mixed-use complex in Munhyeon-dong, Nam-gu District. It houses over 170 businesses and organizations. 　Busan Metropolitan City ranks 23rd in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, marking its highest position to date and reflecting the city's solid foundation and financial competitiveness on the world stage. 　The GFCI, a collaboration between London-based consultancy Z/Yen and the China Development Institute, is a prominent ranking of 120 major financial centres worldwide. Published biannually in March and September, the GFCI serves as a key resource for policy and investment decision makers. 　Busan's 23rd-place ranking continues its upward ascent since it debuted at 46th place in 2018. When broken down by region, Busan ranks 8th in Asia/Pacific, just behind Beijing, but ahead of cities like Sydney, Osaka and Guangzhou.　According to the report, Busan "benefits from cutting-edge digital infrastructure and reliable utilities, [which creates] an environment that strongly supports financial services and global business operations."　A key driver of Busan's steady ascent up the GFCI rankings has been the city's expansion of financial infrastructure. The city recently completed Phase 3 of the Busan International Finance Center, a mixed-use complex in Munhyeon-dong, Nam-gu District. The new 45-story skyscraper houses over 170 businesses and organizations.　Other contributing factors include continued expansion of policy funds for corporate growth and industrial innovation, such as the Busan Future Growth Venture Fund, the Busan Innovation Scale-up Venture Fund and the Busan Future Industry Transition Fund; and the concentration of major institutions in Busan, including the global shipping broker Clarkson and the marine finance-specialized asset management firm Waterline, which have strengthened core infrastructure and financial market foundations.　Z/Yen also evaluates cities' financial technology offerings. Busan ranks 16th out of 116 cities on the FinTech index, climbing six spots since last year. The rise reflects Busan's potential as a tech-driven finance leader. Much of this success stems from securing new growth engines in digital finance, such as attracting Korea's first dedicated trading platform for fractional investment distribution, KDX Consortium, and leveraging Busan's status as the nation's only blockchain regulation-free zone.　A Busan City official stated, "With Busan's core strengths centered on maritime and digital finance, Busan will continue to implement distinctive, innovative strategies for even greater growth. Aiming to break into the global top 20 and Asia's top 5 by 2030, Busan is committed to solidifying its reputation as a premier international financial and commercial hub."
• Busan and Agoda partnership benefits digital nomads  Busan City and online travel platform Agoda have teamed up to promote the city as a “workation” destination for remote workers and digital nomads. The partnership aims to draw international visitors who want to keep working while taking in everything Busan has to offer.The campaign goes live on Agoda’s platform on May 6. A dedicated Busan Workation page and social media campaigns will highlight workation opportunities in the city.International remote workers and digital nomads can participate by registering on busaness.com, the official Busan Workation website. Verification requires a passport and proof of employment. Once complete, users will receive an exclusive Agoda promo code for discounts.◎ Busan Workation: Click ◎ Agoda: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>promote: 홍보하다 remote: 원격 verification: 확인 employment: 근로Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 

View more

Enjoy Busan

• Loop Lab Busan 2026: Digital art across 35 venues, from Haeundae to Busan Station source: Visit BusanThrough June 28, the Busan Museum of Art invites visitors to experience Loop Lab Busan 2026, a digital arts festival spanning 35 venues across the city.Now in its second year, Loop Lab Busan brings local and international artists together to transform the city into a media arts gallery. The works on display draw on artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and NFTs, placing tech-driven art in everyday spaces.One of the festival’s main exhibitions, “Digital Subculture: Narrative and Story in the Digital Era,” is divided among four sites: The Outdoor Sculpture Park at the Busan Museum of Art, the Busan City Hall Media Wall, the Eurasia Platform at Busan Station and the digital billboard at the Busan Yukaro Building in Haeundae. The exhibition examines how the ubiquity of short-form videos on social media has changed the nature of storytelling. Central to this is “Neo-Kinetoscope,” a concept drawing a parallel between today's fast-paced media environment and the peephole-viewing experience of Thomas Edison's original 1890s Kinetoscope.In addition, the exhibition “Moving on Asia” offers a glimpse into the social engagement of 16 young Asian artists, who share their sophisticated perspectives on a transforming society. This curated exhibition is available until June 18 at the Busan Cultural Center. As the festival spans numerous exhibitions across various venues, dates and programs may vary. For full details and schedules, visit the official website at the link below. ※ 2026 Loop Lab Busan, until June 28 Website: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>argument: 논쟁 parrarel: 평행  engagement: 참여 numerous: 수많은Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   
• What to do in May ② source: Busan Tourism Archive🍻 Centum Beer Festival 센텀맥주축제Date: May 22 to 31Location: Busan Cinema CenterEnjoy ice-cold, all-you-can-drink beer with a single admission ticket! This year, the festival has enhanced its appeal by expanding its food zone and participatory activities. While the core identity remains focused on high-quality beer, each day will feature new entertainment themes, ranging from costumes and tango to retro nights.source: Busan Tourism Archive🎊 Busan Global Citizen Festival 부산세계시민축제Date: May 23Location: North Port Waterfront Park (Chinsu Park)North Port will become a cultural hub where K-culture and global traditions converge. The Busan Global Citizen Festival invites you to experience cultures from around the world. While enjoying international delicacies, charming performances and engaging programs, you will find yourself feeling closer to the world and to our international neighbors.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>admission: 입장 appeal: 매력 participatory: 참여형의 converge: 모여들다 delicacy: 미식Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy  
• AKMU, Haechan and EVAN headline 2026 BOF with NOL  The Busan One Asia Festival with NOL returns in June! Now in its 10th year, BOF has grown into one of the city's premier cultural events.This year’s edition features a star-studded lineup for its Big Concert, scheduled for June 27 and 28 at Busan Asiad Main Stadium. Tickets will go on sale starting at 8 p.m. on May 12 via NOL Ticket and NOL World. On June 27, AKMU takes the stage with their emotionally resonant songwriting and signature sound. On the same day, NCT's Haechan will amplify the festive energy with his compelling vocals and refined choreography. On June 28, EVAN will grace the stage. Formerly known as Heeseung, the former ENHYPHEN member will perform as a solo artist, marking a new chapter in his career.This year, BOF will offer more than music as it tries to establish itself as the next great K-content platform. The area around the stadium will feature exhibition zones and pop-up stores tied to K-pop, food, beauty, games and webtoons.In addition to the Big Concert, BOF will hold the free Park Concert on Saturday, June 20, at Hwamyeong Ecological Park. Urban Zakapa and Lee Mujin headline this family-friendly, picnic-style event.Finally, the BIG Talk conference on June 9 is a must-visit for anyone interested in the K-culture industry. Held at the Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center, the conference brings together speakers from SM C&C, NOL Universe, The Founders, ESteem, and Delivered Korea to explore how K-pop fandom connects to Busan's local content scene.※ 2026 Busan One Asia Festival ◎ Website: Click ◎ Buy Tickets for Big Concert: Click ◎ Instagram: @bof_official_kr, @bof.en, @bof.tw, @bof.jp◎ Facebook: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>resonant: 깊이 울리는 amplify: 증폭시키다 compelling: 강렬한 tied to: ~와 관련있는Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   

View more

Food

• A new star joins the show 　Busan is now home to four Michelin-starred restaurants, marking a new era for local gastronomy. Le DORER, a contemporary Korean fine-dining establishment, recently earned one star in the 2026 Michelin Guide Seoul and Busan, released on March 5. The restaurant joins one-starred restaurants Mori, Palate and Fiotto atop the dining landscape.　Furthermore, Busan welcomed a diverse array of eateries officially selected for the Michelin Guide. The latest restaurants to join the prestigious list are introduced below. ■ Le DORER 르도헤 (Michelin One Star)　A young yet remarkably accomplished head chef showcases an astonishing interpretation of Korean cuisine through sophisticated techniques. This chef from Busan offers a delightful exploration of the region's seasonal ingredients, filtered through a modern perspective. While starting its journey as a Korean restaurant, Le DORER has evolved to redefine the genre's essence with contemporary flair. Infused with French and Japanese techniques, each course offers an expansive, exciting experience, presenting familiar ingredients with bold and unexpected twists. *Address: 2F, 37 Marine city 3-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 12-2:30 p.m. / Dinner 5-10 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.*Menu: Lunch Course 120,000 won / Dinner Course 210,000 won ■ Moemiljip 뫼밀집 (　 Bib Gourmand)　Its signature noodles, made in-house entirely from Korean buckwheat, instantly awaken your senses to what authentic texture and taste truly feel like. The unique chewiness, combined with buckwheat's deep, earthy flavor, is remarkably distinctive. These noodles pair perfectly with Moemiljip's slices of boiled pork - bouncy, collagen-rich and deeply satisfying.*Address: 2F, Orange Plaza, 23 Marine City 3-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Dinner 5-8:30 p.m. (Last orders 3, 8 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.*Menu: Buckwheat Noodles with Perilla Oil 17,000 won. ■ Jin Dweji Gomtang 진돼지곰탕 　Established in 2024, this eatery went viral almost immediately, drawing a younger crowd with its clear, savory pork broth. Dishes are made with Berkshire K black pigs from Jirisan; the prized breed is renowned for producing high-quality, heavily marbled and tender meat.　Although Busan is traditionally known for Dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice), Jin Dweji Gomtang carves out its own lane with a different approach to similar ingredients: The broth is made with meat rather than bones, resulting in a clean, light soup that keeps diners craving another spoonful.　The restaurant's main location is near Gwangalli Beach, and another branch recently opened near Busan Station.*Address: 2F, 4 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Last order 8:40 p.m.)*Menu: Dweji Gomtang 13,000 won  ■ Unaju 우나쥬　Following the original recipes of Shirakawa, a grilled-eel-specialist restaurant in Nagoya founded in 1948, Unaju's grilled eel is nothing short of artistry. With meticulous technique and patience, each fresh eel is double-grilled to perfection, yielding a crispy exterior that gives way to a delightfully springy, succulent interior.*Address: 39 Cheongsapo-ro 67beon-gil, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner 5-10 p.m. (Last order 8:30 p.m.)*Signature: Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel) 39,000 won ■ Iwa 이와　Holding a patent for its specialized fish-ageing technique, Iwa's chef is a true master of the unique characteristics and conditions of every catch. By bringing out the absolute best qualities in each fish, the chef presents meticulously aged sashimi that reveals a next-level texture and profound depth of flavor. At Iwa, guests can indulge in exquisite omakase courses at remarkably reasonable prices. *Address: 2F, 13 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 209 beon-gil, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open from 12 to 10 p.m. Closed on Sundays.*Menu: Omakase (Prices may vary) ■ Pyeongsanok 평산옥　Pyeongsanok, a local institution operated by the same family over four generations, specializes in "suyuk," tender slices of boiled pork, and noodles. The restaurant has been serving guests for over a century, proving that simple food done well is always in demand.*Address: 26, Choryangjung-ro, Dong-gu*Hours: Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Sundays.*Menu: Suyuk 10,000 won
• A new star joins the show  Busan’s gourmet scene is blooming like a meticulously curated garden. The city is now home to four Michelin-starred restaurants, marking a new era for local gastronomy. Le DORER, a contemporary Korean fine-dining establishment, recently earned one star in the 2026 Michelin Guide Seoul and Busan, released on March 5. The restaurant joins Mori, Palate and Fiotto – all boasting one star – atop Busan’s dining landscape.Furthermore, Busan welcomed a diverse array of eateries officially selected for the Michelin Guide. The list features Jin Dweji Gomtang, renowned for its deep, savory pork broth, and Moemiljip, which showcases the unique texture of 100% Korean buckwheat noodles. Other notable entries include Pyeongsanok, boasting a century of heritage with its signature slices of boiled pork; Unaju, famous for its grilled eel served over rice; and Iwa, acclaimed for its distinctive fish-ageing techniques. source: Michelin Guide⭐ Le DORER 르도헤 (Michelin One Star)A young yet remarkably accomplished head chef showcases an astonishing interpretation of Korean cuisine through sophisticated techniques. This chef from Busan offers a delightful exploration of the region’s seasonal ingredients, filtered through a modern perspective. While starting its journey as a Korean restaurant, Le DORER has evolved to redefine the genre’s essence with contemporary flair. Infused with French and Japanese techniques, each course offers an expansive, exciting experience, presenting familiar ingredients with bold and unexpected twists. Address: 2F, 37 Marine city 3-ro, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 12-2:30 p.m. / Dinner 5-10 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.Menu: Lunch Course 120,000 won / Dinner Course 210,000 wonsource: Michelin Guide🍜 Moemiljip 뫼밀집 (Bib Gourmand)Its signature noodles, made in-house entirely from Korean buckwheat, instantly awaken your senses to what authentic texture and taste truly feel like. The unique chewiness, combined with buckwheat’s deep, earthy flavor, is remarkably distinctive. These noodles pair perfectly with Moemiljip’s slices of boiled pork—bouncy, collagen-rich and deeply satisfying.Address: 2F, Orange Plaza, 23 Marine City 3-ro, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Dinner 5-8:30 p.m. (Last orders 3, 8 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.Menu: Buckwheat Noodles with Perilla Oil 17,000 won.source: Michelin Guide🥣 Jin Dweji Gomtang 진돼지곰탕 Established in 2024, this eatery went viral almost immediately, drawing a younger crowd with its clear, savory pork broth. Dishes are made with Berkshire K black pigs from Jirisan; the prized breed is renowned for producing high-quality, heavily marbled and tender meat.Although Busan is traditionally known for Dwaeji-gukbap (Pork soup with rice), Jin Dweji Gomtang carves out its own lane with a different approach to similar ingredients: The broth is built around meat rather than bones, resulting in a clean, light soup that keeps diners craving another spoonful.The restaurant’s main location is near Gwangalli Beach, and another branch recently opened near Busan Station.Address: 2F, 4 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-guNaver Map (Suyeong): Click Naver Map (Busan Station): Click Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Last order 8:40 p.m.)Menu: Dweji Gomtang 13,000 won source: Michelin Guide🍱 Unaju 우나쥬Following the original recipes of Shirakawa, a grilled-eel-specialist restaurant in Nagoya founded in 1948, Unaju’s grilled eel is nothing short of artistry. With meticulous technique and patience, each fresh eel is double-grilled to perfection, yielding a crispy exterior that gives way to a delightfully springy, succulent interior.Address: 39 Cheongsapo-ro 67beon-gil, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner 5-10 p.m. (Last order 8:30 p.m.)Signature: Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel) 39,000 wonsource: Michelin Guide🦐 Iwa 이와Holding a patent for its specialized fish-ageing technique, Iwa’s chef is a true master of the unique characteristics and conditions of every catch. By bringing out the absolute best qualities in each fish, the chef presents meticulously aged sashimi that reveals a next-level texture and profound depth of flavor. At Iwa, guests can indulge in exquisite omakase-style courses at remarkably reasonable prices.  Address: 2F, 13 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 209 beon-gil, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Open from 12 to 10 p.m. Closed on Sundays.Menu: Omakase (Prices may vary)source: Busan City's official Naver Blog🥩 Pyeongsanok 평산옥Pyeongsanok, a local institution operated by the same family over four generations, specializes in “suyuk,” tender slices of boiled pork, and noodles. The restaurant has been serving guests for over a century, proving that simple food done well is always in demand. Address: 26, Choryangjung-ro, Dong-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Sundays.Menu: Suyuk 10,000 won※Restaurant information may be subject to change.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>astonishing: 놀라운 perspective: 관점 twists: 반전 buckwheat: 메밀 chewiness: 씹히는 맛 broth: 육수 branch: 지점 exquisite: 정교한 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• The street foods that define Busan winters source: getty imageIn any neighborhood and at any hour, people will stand around vinyl tents, warmed by steam emanating from cooktops. These food stalls, ubiquitous nationwide, specialize in Korean snacks and beckon peckish passersby with promises of soul-warming meals. Through that magic combination of flavor and nostalgia, these comfort foods have the power to cure whatever ails you.Broken heart? Tteokbokki. Job-related stress? Gimbap.　Existential crisis? Ramyeon.When what ails you is the weather, specifically biting winds and freezing temperatures, healing comes in two forms: "Eomuk," fish cakes, or "multteok," rice cakes in broth. These cold-weather staples warm the body and the mind.🍥 MultteokEomuk's longtime partner is multteok, long, chewy rice cakes skewered and gently soaked in the same fish cake broth. The result is a tender, springy and subtly savory snack. Common at Busan snack stalls since at least the 1960s, multteok is rarely found outside the region.Sometimes used as a base for tteokbokki, multteok adds an extra layer of depth to the familiar sweet-spicy dish. For the most authentic experience, head to traditional markets in Jagalchi or Bujeon, where eomuk and multteok attract long lines at bustling street stalls.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>neighborhood: 지역 tender: 부드러운 springy: 탄력 있는 authentic: 정통의Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

View more

Life

• Unlimited public transit for 27,000 won a month source: getty imageBusan residents can effectively enjoy unlimited public transportation for just 27,000 won per month. In response to rising oil prices linked to the Middle East conflict, the government has temporarily expanded the K-Pass refund program. The enhanced benefits cover six months of usage, from April through September, and apply retroactively from April.The expansion builds on Busan's April 1 integration of the Dongbaek Pass with the national K-Pass system. Users enrolled in both passes have their refunds automatically calculated and applied in the most advantageous way — no manual switching required.The general K-Pass, which refunds 20% of transit costs for users riding 15 or more times a month, now offers 50% back during staggered commute hours: 5:30 to 6:30 a.m., 9 to 10 a.m., 4 to 5 p.m., and 7 to 8 p.m. Youth, seniors, and two-child households receive 60% during those windows; households with three or more children get 80%; and low-income users get 83.3%.The K-Pass "Everyone's Card" — a flat-rate plan that refunds all transit costs above a monthly threshold — has also been upgraded. For general users in Busan, that threshold drops from 55,000 won to 27,000 won. Lower thresholds apply to youth, seniors, multi-child households, and low-income users as well.To access these benefits, registration in both the Dongbaek Pass and K-Pass is required. Existing Dongbaek Pass cardholders keep their current card but must complete K-Pass membership registration separately if they haven't already.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>effectively: 효율적으로 umlimited: 무제한의 temporarily: 일시적으로 expand: 확장하다 retroactively: 소급해서 automatically: 자동적으로 calculate: 계산하다 staggered: (근무 시간) 시차제 commute: 통근 seperately: 각각Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Busan’s ‘Carry Buses’ can take your check-in luggage  Busan’s transportation authority is conducting a pilot program for the “Carry Bus,” which allows passengers to board with large, check-in-sized luggage, up to 30 inches.The trial began on April 1 and will end on June 30. It runs exclusively on the No. 85 bus, with 12 designated vehicles connecting Yeongdo-gu District, Busan Station, Seomyeon and Jeonpo-dong.Outside this pilot program, city buses allow passengers to carry suitcases up to 20 inches, the standard carry-on size.Carry Buses are easy to spot thanks to their distinct exterior design that features Boogi, the city’s official mascot.To promote passenger safety, the service runs only during off-peak hours, excluding the morning (7 to 9 a.m.) and evening (5 to 7 p.m.) rush hours. Each passenger may carry one suitcase, which must be securely fastened at the designated structure in the priority seating area. However, if a wheelchair user boards the bus, luggage storage in the area is restricted.Drivers can also limit luggage boarding if the bus gets too crowded or safety becomes a concern.If the pilot goes well, the city plans to use the results to set official standards and consider expanding the program citywide.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>passenger: 승객 board: 탑승하다 pilot: 시범 restricted: 제한되다 concern: 우려Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Two-child households can now receive a 50% discount on tolls  Starting May 15, Busan City is expanding toll benefits on Gwangandaegyo Bridge to include families with two children. Households with three or more children will continue to enjoy a full toll exemption, while two-child families will now receive a 50% discount, bringing the toll from 1,000 won to 500 won. In addition, Hi-Pass users can receive an extra 100 won discount, bringing the total toll to 400 won. An estimated 120,000 families are expected to benefit.The discount applies to non-commercial vehicles: Standard passenger cars, vans with up to 12 seats and small trucks under 1 ton. Vehicles owned or leased by corporations, organizations or businesses are not eligible. Rental or leased vehicles qualify if the contract is under the name of any family member.How to Apply:1.Obtain a vehicle sticker: Visit your local Administrative Welfare Center wth your ID card, vehicle registration certificate and Family Love Card. Don’t have a Family Love Card yet? Apply for one through the Dongbaek Jeon app.2.Register online: Once you have the sticker, register your license plate number and Hi-Pass Card information on the Gwangandaegyo Bridge website.3.The discount will apply automatically the day after registration is completed.A few notes:1.If you cross the bridge without the sticker or registering online, standard tolls will apply. 2.Rechargeable Hi-Pass users should also register a refund account to ensure any missed discounts are refunded. 3.This benefit cannot be stacked with other discounts, such as light-vehicle or continuous-toll discounts.◎ Gwangandaegyo Bridge website: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>include: 포함하다 exemption: 면제 corporation: 기업 obtain: 얻다 automatically: 자동적으로 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   

View more

Views

• What to do in May May is one of the best months to visit Busan. Festivals take over the city's most iconic settings - beaches, temples, and hillside neighborhoods - turning familiar landmarks into something worth seeing all over again. Lotus lanterns float above temple courtyards, sand sculptures rise along Haeundae's shore and the smell of fresh coffee drifts through the streets. Whether you're drawn by the food, the art or simply the energy of a city in full spring bloom, May is an exciting time to be in Busan.■ Busan Lotus Lantern Festival 부산연등회◎Date: May 1 to 17◎Location: Song Sanghyeon Square, Busan Citizens Park 　In celebration of Buddha's birthday on May 24, various lotus lanterns will color Song Sanghyeon Square with an enchanting display. Wishing for good fortune, citizens can enjoy a delightful stroll among delicate lights featuring unique designs that capture the eye. On May 16, a street parade will take place at Busan Citizens Park, inviting people to hold lanterns and march together. ■ Global Yeong-do Coffee Festival 영도 커피페스티벌◎Date: May 15 to 17◎Location: Amir Park　This vibrant festival has returned to brew Yeong-do into a hot spot! As the region rises as a home to numerous charming cafes, the event offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy unique coffees from around the world and experience themed activities such as roasting beans and making pour over coffee. ■ Haeundae Sand Festival 해운대모래축제◎Date: May 15 to 18◎Location: Haeundae Beach　Witness the magical transformation of sand at Haeundae Beach! Eleven professional sculptors from Korea, China and France will turn ordinary sand into massive, meticulous art pieces under the theme of "Time Travel in Busan." While the festival runs for three days, the majestic sand sculptures will remain on display until June 14 for all to enjoy. ■ Centum Beer Festival 센텀맥주축제◎Date: May 22 to 31◎Location: Busan Cinema Center　Enjoy ice-cold, all-you-can-drink beer with a single admission ticket! This year, the festival has enhanced its appeal by expanding its food zone and participatory activities. While the core identity remains focused on high-quality beer, each day will feature new entertainment themes, ranging from costumes and tango to retro nights.■ Busan Global Citizen Festival 부산세계시민축제◎Date: May 23◎Location: North Port Waterfront Park (Chinsu Park)　North Port will become a cultural hub where K-culture and global traditions converge. The Busan Global Citizen Festival invites you to experience cultures from around the world. While enjoying international delicacies, charming performances and engaging programs, you will find yourself feeling closer to the world and to our international neighbors. More events: Click
• [SNAPSHOT BUSAN] Busan's first night market, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market 　While Busan is a global hub of commerce, culture and technology, it is also a city where ordinary people live out their daily lives. Away from the glitz and glamour, people chase dreams, spend time with loved ones and experience the highs and lows of a life well lived. Snapshot Busan captures these quiet moments and shows the beauty in daily routines.　This edition covers Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, Busan's first permanent night market. Here, footsteps slow at the sight of tempting snacks, from familiar Korean staples to street food from around the world. As visitors taste the delicacies, delight spreads across their faces, offering a glimpse into an ordinary day in Busan, a city that every foodie has on their map.Every night from 7:30 p.m. to midnight, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market comes alive. Visitors crowd around food stalls to eat local delicacies and iconic street foods from around the world.A simple recipe for a fun night: Close friends and great street food.Grilled hagfish delivers a smoky aroma and sizziling visual that beckon passersby.
• [SNAPSHOT BUSAN] Busan springs to life after a long winter 　While Busan is a global hub of commerce, culture and technology, it is also a city where ordinary people live out their daily lives. Away from the glitz and glamour, people chase dreams, spend time with loved ones and experience the highs and lows of a life well lived. 　Snapshot Busan captures these quiet moments and shows the inherent beauty in daily routines. 　This edition features Busan citizens spending time outdoors and embracing the early spring. The promise of warmer weather and longer days imbues each scene with a revitalizing energy. All images were taken at Hwamyeong Eco Park in Buk-gu District by photographer Minjae Lee.Cherry blossoms don't just herald the arrival of spring; they are a sign that it's baseball season. In Busan, baseball is a family heirloom, a joy passed from one generation to the next.Busanites also love soccer, where a passion for the game pulls people onto the pitch.A familiar sight when the weather is nice; Fathers chasing after their energetic children.

View more