Enjoy Busan
Busan is preparing for BTS' return
In March, K-pop supergroup BTS returned after a nearly four-year hiatus, thrilling fans with their long-awaited tenth studio album, "Arirang."
The group is currently on the BTS WORLD TOUR `ARIRANG', which covers 85 dates in 34 cities across North America, Europe and Asia. The tour opened on April 9 at Goyang Stadium in Gyeonggi-do Province, where BTS performed in front of nearly 132,000 fans over three days. They then left for concerts in Tokyo and the United States.
The tour will return to Korea on June 12 and 13 with BTS WORLD TOUR `ARIRANG' IN BUSAN. Performances will be at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, the same venue where BTS held their final concert before fulfilling their military obligations. This return is significant: Busan is the hometown of members Jungkook and Jimin, and June 13 marks the group's 13th debut anniversary.
Global interest is already skyrocketing. According to Hotels.com, searches for accommodations in Busan surged by 3,855% domestically and 2,375% internationally within a week of the tour announcement on Jan. 14.
Ahead of the concerts, many fans are coming to Busan to see the neighborhoods Jungkook and Jimin spent time in as children. Fans are flocking to iconic spots associated with them, including Gamcheon Culture Village, Mandeok Lego Village and Seodong Miro Market.
Busan is busy preparing a world-class welcome. The BTS concert will serve as a significant opportunity to showcase Busan's appeal and strengthen its position as a global tourism hub by building international trust. To ensure visitors have a good time, the city is implementing several strategic initiatives.
Welcome centers will operate at major hubs and landmarks will be illuminated to greet international guests. From dazzling drone shows at Gwangalli Beach to romantic Candlelight concerts, Busan's nighttime attractions will prove there is plenty to do at any time of day. For foodies, Busan offers "Gourmet Selections," collaborations between Michelin-listed restaurants and beloved local eateries to showcase the city돴s excellent culinary scene. Visitors can also spend time at vibrant markets at the North Port's Port Village and the Starry Sea Busan Night Market.
To ensure a seamless transportation and accommodation experience, Busan is bolstering its support infrastructure. Information services at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, Busan Station and Gimhae International Airport will be enhanced, and subway services will be expanded to facilitate safe and efficient travel. The city will also conduct intensive inspections into unfair practices, such as price gouging or the unjust cancellation of existing reservations.
Institutions such as the Geumnyeonsan and Gudeok youth training centers, as well as the temple stay program at Naewonjeongsa Temple, will be used to accommodate approximately 400 international tourists. Adding these accommodation options makes it easier for visitors to secure lodging.
Additionally, Arpina, the youth hostel in Haeundae-gu District operated by the Busan City Corporation, will maintain its standard rates. Furthermore, the city is pursuing incentive programs for general lodging businesses to encourage price stability and service improvements. Busan is committed to meeting － and exceeding － global standards across hospitality, dining, entertainment, transportation, and safety.