Daily Busan
[My Busan Story] Busan Is a Part of Me
"My Busan Story" is a special series by Busan's English-language newspaper, inviting foreign residents to share their unique perspectives on life in the city. From unforgettable experiences and travel episodes to small everyday joys, these stories highlight the diverse voices that make Busan feel like home. This month, we introduce the story of Yangshi Nembang
Busan Is a Part of Me
I came to Busan by bus, after an exhausting flight from Kathmandu to Incheon. I hoped Busan would greet me warmly—after all, this was my new home.
But reality was different.
Outside the bus window, I saw dry hills, leafless trees. I was shocked—in my country, it was hot.
Busan didn’t impress at first; all hills and abandoned houses, especially around Dong-Eui University, where I had a room. Honestly, I didn’t like it. Perhaps, I saw a reflection of myself in Busan. Like the city, I felt cold, lost, scared of this new place. There was no greenery in me; nothing to attract people.
But things changed.
When spring arrived, I saw Busan reborn. The cold passed. The parks where I walked started blooming, the trees filled with green. And I, too, began to change. I made friends with some ajummas while exercising in the park. It felt great to hear their broken English, and my heart swelled with pride that they knew about the Himalayas of Nepal.
I thought not speaking Korean would be hard. But I realized the real problem wasn’t language—it was my perception. The most important language to speak is love; kindness; patience.
Busan taught me that!
Since I live close to Haeundae Beach, I often go there to watch the ocean waves, kids building sandcastles—they remind me of my childhood.
If you love nature, you won’t regret visiting Busan. There are many beauty spots, and places to hike.
But I like the Children’s and Citizens’ Parks the most. When I first visited them, it was love at first sight—I keep going back.
I love walking, reading, and sitting quietly. When I feel adventurous, I go to the Children’s Park, hike to the temple, watch the birds, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy the trees. I sit by a hidden pond and watch the fish.
When I need to recharge, I go to the Citizen’s Park, lie on the grass, and read, or people watch.
I’ve accepted Busan into my heart. I realize it all depends on how you choose to see the world. If you expect perfection, you’ll be disappointed. If you appreciate what you have, despite its flaws, you see beauty everywhere.
I love Busan—whether it’s seeing a couple holding hands, someone enjoying a coffee, street vendors yelling, or ajummas hauling groceries.
And I found a “spirit tree;” an idea I got from a teacher who told me about his own. When I feel low, I visit my spirit tree—tall, green, and strong enough to lift me up.
Like Busan and its people.
Thank you.