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The best is yet to come
Busan’s pursuit to
host World Expo 2030 has come to an end. Although the city will not host the
global event, the 10-year endeavor has transformed the city and established a
profound legacy that citizens can be proud of. Busan initiated its
plan to host the Expo back in 2014 and submitted a letter of candidature to the
BIE in 2021. Efforts intensified in 2022 when newly-elected Busan Mayor Park
Heong-joon and newly-elected Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol made hosting the World
Expo a top administration priority. President Yoon’s “One
Team” approach called for central and local government officials to work hand
in hand with the leaders of the nation’s largest conglomerates to secure
Busan’s bid. As a result, the nation’s most powerful and influential leaders
have spent the last two years traveling the world, promoting the city’s global
competitiveness and strengthening international relations. During the process,
which included four presentations, an on-site inspection by the BIE, diplomatic
missions, international summits and countless events, officials showcased
Busan’s multifaceted allure as a tier-one tourist destination, a gateway to the
Eurasian Continent, a trade and logistics powerhouse, a global financial hub, a
gourmand’s paradise, and the epicenter of Korean culture, film and gaming. That Busan is all of
this, and more, has resonated with people worldwide and drastically raised the
city’s global profile. Busan’s city brand is at an all-time high with unlimited
room for growth. Simultaneously,
officials have been actively enhancing Busan’s infrastructure to solidify its
position as a world-class city. The redevelopment of the Busan North Port,
which has a history spanning 150 years, is underway to transform it into a
vibrant space converging culture, industry, technological innovation and
international exchange. The Gadeokdo New Airport will open in 2029 and complete
the city’s “Tri-Port” system, which integrates air, rail and ship transit. The
move ensures that passengers and goods can seamlessly travel throughout the
region, cementing Busan’s status as a global logistics and transit hub. While many are
disappointed in the outcome, there is no question that Busan has laid the
groundwork for a promising future. Over the next decade, the city is poised for
transformation. It will emerge as a green, smart city where humans and nature
coexist; a technological powerhouse where cutting-edge innovation and progress
can flourish; and a welcoming community of diverse cultures. Above all, Busan will
be a haven of happiness, characterized by an exceptional quality of life where
people want to live generation after generation.
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Bistro Busan set to attract BIE voters
Representatives from each member state of the Bureau International des Expositions will gather in Paris on Nov. 28 to select the host city of World Expo 2030. Before voting begins, Busan will continue promoting its candidacy until the very last second.To that end, Busan Metropolitan City will operate the pop-up Bistro Busan at COMPTOIR D'ISSY, a bistro located near the BIE’s 173rd General Assembly venue. Bistro Busan will offer lunch boxes, snacks and beverages for a pay-as-you-wish donation. Guests can watch a live stream of each candidate city’s final presentation while enjoying delicious Korean treats.Furthermore, a section of the Korean Cultural Center in the French capital will be transformed into an Expo promotion zone on Nov. 27 and 28. An installation by Busan artist Im Jibin will delight visitors. Mr. Im, known for his collaboration with Gucci featuring giant teddy bears, will adorn the KCC’s courtyard with his trademark bears. Each bear will have expressions of hope for a World Expo 2030 Busan.In addition, the KCC offers Korean cultural experiences, such as wearing Hanbok and playing traditional games.On the 6th floor, an Expo cheering event will feature live coverage of the voting site in Paris and various performances.Finally, Busan will present its passion for hosting World Expo 2030 via digital billboards. Several large ads will be displayed on the outer walls of Palais des Sports Robert Charpentier starting Nov. 24. Furthermore, Busan will place digital ads on nine panels at the entrance of the BIE General Assembly venue.※ Bistro Busan, Nov. 28 ◎ Pop-up at COMPTOIR D'ISSY: 2 Av. Victor Cresson, 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux, Paris, France
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Number of TOPIK test dates to double in 2024
With global interest in Korea and the Korean language surging, the Ministry of Education will increase the number of TOPIK exams conducted overseas.TOPIK, or Test of Proficiency in Korean, evaluates the language proficiency of foreigners and overseas Koreans. Introduced in 1997, the test is taken by non-native speakers who wish to study in Korean universities or work for Korean companies in and out of the country. In 2023, a record-setting 417,800 people sat for the exam.Amid this rising demand, the Ministry of Education will double the amount of times the TOPIK is given overseas. Starting in 2024, the test will be conducted eight times. The paper-based exam, which requires going to an approved test center, will be held in over 90 countries. Additionally, the online version will be administered in 10 nations.This expansion is a follow-up measure to the Study Korea 300K Project announced in August amid criticism that the number of instances in which TOPIK is offered worldwide falls short of its rising demand.Next year, the paper-based test (PBT) will be held five times and the internet-based test (IBT) will be held three times. The chart below has a detailed schedule for each test in 2024. For inquiries, contact the phone numbers below.※ 2024 Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK)
◎ Inquiry
• Overseas Korean Education Division
of Global Education Planning Bureau of the Ministry of Education: 044-203-6785
• TOPIK Center, Dept. of Planning and
Coordination of the National Institute for International Education:
02-3668-1345
Enjoy Busan
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The Haeundae Light Festival brightens up the dark winter
source: haeundae.go.krThe 10th Haeundae Light Festival returns to illuminate the streets around Haeundae Beach from Dec 2, 2023, to Jan. 31, 2024. An opening ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2 at the event square on Haeundae Beach. The kick-off event will feature cheerful performances by the acoustic band Humming Project and world-renowned magician Yu Hojin. Mr. Yu is an icon in the world of magic, with several accolades on his resume. He was the youngest person and first Asian to win the Grand Prix of the FISM World Championships of Magic and the youngest to win the U.S.-based Academy of Magical Arts Magician of the Year award. He has made several appearances on the hit TV program “America’s Got Talent,” most recently in 2022.This year, the surrounding areas of Haeundae Beach will be decorated with bright structures and picture backdrops. Different areas will be presented around four themes: “Highlight” at Haeundae Beach, “Happiness” at Gunam-ro, “Humanism” at Haeundae Market, and “Hope” at Haeundae Hot Springs Road (해운대온천길). Structures inspired by the four seasons, collectively titled “Light Milky Way,” will illuminate up the path between the Grand Chosun Hotel and Busan Aquarium. Additionally, Gunam-ro, the pedestrian walkway between Haeundae metro station and the beach, will offer various activities, such as an MBTI test, face painting, Christmas candle making and more.On Dec. 23, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., special performances at Haeundae Beach will help visitors get into the holiday spirit. There will be a Santa Claus flash mob and a Christmas carol singing contest and concert.Festivalgoers can also receive a 30% discount on admission to Busan X The Sky. To apply, upload a picture of your visit to the Light Festival and present it at the Busan X The Sky ticket office. Haeundae-gu residents, who can already claim a 40% discount, cannot combine the discount offers.For details, visit the official website of the Haeundae-gu district office below.※ Haeundae Light Festival, Dec. 2, 2023, to Jan. 21 2024 ◎ Instagram: @_busan_festival ◎ Website: haeundae.go.kr
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UNICEFBLUE to light up Busan landmarks
source: visitbusan.netOn Nov. 20, 1959, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, affirming the rights specific to children and the responsibility adults have toward them. Nov. 20 also marks World Children’s Day.To celebrate the anniversary, UNICEF lights up iconic landmarks in their recognizable light-blue color. In the past, the Acropolis of Athens and the Empire State Building in New York have been lit up in blue.For the first time in history, the blue lighting will come to Busan. Dubbed “UNICEFBLUE,” eight landmarks citywide will turn blue from Nov. 17 to 20. The blue glow can be seen at Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Nurimaru APEC House, City Hall, the BNK Busan Bank head office, Diamond Tower, the Busan Cinema Center, Hwangnyeongsan Transmission Tower and Haeundae LCT The Sharp. At 6 p.m. on Nov. 18, when the Gwangandaegyo Bridge lights up in blue, the Gwangalli M Drone Show and other live performances will take place to celebrate the lighting ceremony. To promote UNICEFBLUE, UNICEF Korea is giving away special UNICEF hoodies. Anyone who posts pictures from at least five of the lit-up locations on their social media accounts will enter a lottery for the giveaway. Use hashtags #유니세프, #세계어린이의날, #유니세프블루in부산 to enter.For details, visit the official Instagram account of UNICEF Korea.※ UNICEFBLUE in Busan, Nov. 17 to 20 ◎ Instagram: @unicef_kr ◎ Gwangalli Beach: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu ◎ Nurimaru APEC House: 116 Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu ◎ City Hall: 1001 Jungang-daero, Yeonje-gu ◎ BNK Busan Bank head office: 30 Munhyeongeumyung-ro, Nam-gu ◎ Diamond Tower: 37-55 Yongdusan-gil, Jung-gu ◎ Busan Cinema Center: 120 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu ◎ Hwangnyeongsan Mountain Observatory: 391-40 Hwangnyeongsan-ro, Nam-gu ◎ Haeundae LCT The Sharp: 30 Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu
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Busan is for all the dogs
source: visitbusan.netThe website Visit Busan, which provides tourism information about Busan, launched a new travel guide for pet owners.“Travel to Busan With Your Pooch” introduces Busan as a pet-friendly city. The guide provides tips and instructions on enjoying the city with your best friend. With the number of pet owners in Korea now over 10 million, the tourism industry must accommodate our four-legged friends.“Travel to Busan With Your Pooch” introduces tourist destinations and programs that pet owners can enjoy with their pets. Highlights include APEC Naru Park, yacht tours from Suyeongman Bay Yachting Center and the Songdo Marine Sea Car.Pets Go Travel, a travel agency specializing in tour programs for pets and their owners, and Petel, an online platform introducing pet-friendly accommodations, provided information for the guide. The companies also helped craft a “petiquette” guide for practical do’s and don’ts when traveling with a furry companion.In addition, Visit Busan is publishing the webtoon “Let’s All Chacha.” The story centers around Cha Do-hyeon, a man cursed and turned into a dog by an evil shaman. Do-hyeon must travel around Busan and complete missions to change his destiny! Follow along every Thursday as Do-hyeon visits the city’s most popular tourist attractions.Along with the webtoon, the city has launched a new “Let’s All Chacha” mobile game. Play as Chacha the dog and collect the seven marbles around Busan’s seven beaches. Busan is holding a promotional event for the game and webtoon until Nov. 30. Participants can win a variety of great prizes.Go to the Visit Busan website for more information on “Let’s All Chacha” and “Travel to Busan With Your Pooch.”◎ Visit Busan: https://www.visitbusan.net/index.do?menuCd=DOM_000000202015000000
Food
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Savor Busan's history, one large bowl at a time
If Busan wins the right to host the World Expo 2030, millions of people from around the world are expected to visit. While the city has several assets to attract travelers - pristine nature, seven beaches, cultural activities and world-class shopping - chief among them is food. In 2022, the Busan Tourism Organization conducted a survey titled "Four-year Integrated Analysis of Tourists Visiting Busan." According to the results, gourmet travel is the no. 1 reason domestic and overseas tourists visit the city. Busan's food scene also achieved the highest satisfaction score among respondents. Busan has the ideal conditions to be a gastronomic powerhouse: A rich culinary heritage, a bounty of local ingredients, and an international port that welcomes unique food traditions from distant lands. These assets have turned Busan into a gourmand's destination, worthy of Michelin attention. With the potential Expo still seven years away, the only thing guaranteed is that visitors who come to Busan in 2030 will leave satisfied and full.Large portions exemplify Busanites' generosity. People crave milmyeon's powerful flavors.■ Comfort foods with a bittersweet history Pizza in New York. Fish and chips in London. Dim sum in Hong Kong. Many of the great cities worldwide have a food tradition synonymous with the city itself. Busan has two. "Dwaeji gukbap" and "milmyeon" are deeply entwined in the city's fabric and are culinary symbols of the nation's modern history. Dwaeji gukbap, which means pork soup and rice, is a soup of milky-white broth, slices of pork and a serving of rice either in the bowl or on the side. Diners can customize the soup to their taste by adding raw garlic, chives, and onions and seasoning it simply with salt, pepper or a spicy chili paste. If you are an adventurous eater, try the "naejang gukbap," soup with pork offal and blood sausage.◎ Uri Dwaejigukbap Open since 1975, the restaurant has been family-owned for three generations. The proprietors boil pork bones for 24 hours to create the signature milky-white broth. The soup is then served using the traditional "toryeom" method, in which hot broth is repeatedly poured over rice to flavor each grain. The restaurant has also been serving food "nose-to-tail" long before it was trendy, as customers can receive any part of the pig upon request.Address: 27-1 Choyang-ro, Dong-guHours: Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Milmyeon, or wheat noodles, features generous portions of chewy noodles. The dish can either be served in an icy cold broth, called "mul milmyeon," or mixed with a sweet and spicy red pepper paste, called "bibim milmyeon." Either way, the noodles are usually topped with thinly sliced meat, shredded cucumbers and a hard-boiled egg. The dishes are said to have emerged during the tumultuous times of the Korean War when refugees flocked to Busan. Since food was scarce, people from around the country adapted their hometown dishes to what was available. Instead of beef, people boiled pork bones for hours to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Instead of buckwheat, people used wheat flour to make noodles since it was readily available from the war supplies provided by the U.S. Army based in Busan.◎ Myeonchaeum To make milmyeon healthier, this restaurant uses five different grains to make its noodles. The broth is boiled for 48 hours, and the sauce incorporates fruits and vegetables for natural flavor. The "bibim mandu," fried dumplings served with a side of mixed vegetable salad, is also popular here.Address: 11 Geumjeong-ro 231beon-gil, Geumjeong-guHours: Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ribbons of meat and veggies pair well with soju. Nak gop sae is a spicy melange of textures.■ New dishes inspired by local ingredients Busan's unique geography - surrounded by ocean, scattered with mountains, crisscrossed by rivers - has inspired local chefs to create new and exciting dishes. One such example is "naengchae jokbal." The dish features braised and thinly sliced pig's feet topped with salted jellyfish. The pork and jellyfish are then topped with sliced vegetables, including cucumbers, carrots and lettuce, and finished with a spicy mustard dressing. Naengchae jokbal is an unforgettable symphony of flavors and textures.◎ Busan Jokbal Located in Bupyeong-dong's "Jokbal Alley," this famous restaurant is often featured on TV. It is known as the birthplace of naengchae jokbal, a Busan delicacy. Address: 19-1 Gwangbok-ro, Jung-guHours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight. Seafood and meat lovers may prefer "nak gop sae," a Korean-style hot pot so named after its three protein components: "Nakji," or small octopus, "gopchang," or the small intestines of a cow, and "saewoo," the Korean word for shrimp. The proteins are mixed with vegetables, and the whole mess is covered in a spicy sauce. Each bite offers pleasantly chewy and firm textures best enjoyed with a bowl of rice. ◎ Somunnan Wonjo Jobangnakji It is a popular restaurant known for its generous portions and a relatively mild taste. The chef's specialty is "nakjibokkeum," spicy stir-friend octopus. It has emerged as a new rising star among Busan's competing octopus stir-fry restaurants.Address: 37 Myeongnyun-ro 94beon-gil, Dongnae-guHours: Open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. Closed on Mondays and national holidays.※ Taste of Busan 2023 Food Guide: Click
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Busan is good for feasting
In Korea, there is an old saying, "Great boast but small roast," meaning there is nothing to eat at a grand fiesta. While we can all think of hyped-up events that were total letdowns - Fyre Festival comes to mind - the same cannot be said of festivals in Busan. This fall, the "City of Festivals" invites gourmands near and far to feast on unlimited beer, fresh seafood, and delectable baked goods. B.i.G. offers this handy guide to the city's food festivals where you can enjoy a "Taste of Busan." Celebrate Oktoberfest right here in Dongnae-guCelebrate Oktoberfest at Hurshimchung Brau, Oct. 12 to 14#UnlimitedBeer #MBTI #PSYBurger If your passion for beer exceeds your concern over developing a beer belly, Hurshimchung Brau offers the year's best chance to drink unlimited beer. Since 2005, the craft brewery's Oktoberfest celebration has been one of Busan's best beer festivals. This year, Hurshimchung Brau offers every customer a personalized Oktoberfest via its MBTI promotion or "My Beer Type Indicator." Based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which has become popular in Korean society, the brewery offers beers that match different personality types. Whether you are an INFP or ESTJ, Hurshimchung Brau offers four types of beer: Pilsner, pale lagers with a crisp, clean and balanced flavor; dunkel, dark lagers with a rich, malty flavor; Paulaner Weissbier, one of Germany's most popular beers; and Kelly, a Korean beer that has become tremendously popular after it launched in April this year. Hurshimchung Brau will host events and performances to enhance the celebratory mood. Take part in a speed drinking contest, which should give you enough liquid courage to participate in a dance contest. PSY Burger, an impersonator of K-pop star PSY, takes the stage to ensure everyone is having a good time. Guests can also enjoy performances by professional dance teams. Tickets to the event cost 30,000 won per person and can be purchased online or in person. The beer flows from 5 to 10 p.m. Visit the garden in front of Hotel Nongshim in Dongnae-gu district to join the party. Prost!Address: 23 Geumganggongwon-ro 20beon-gil Dongnae-guDo not miss: MBTI and speed drinking contestInstagram: @hotel_nongshim The world's largest raw fish bibimbap needs teamwork to mix the ingredients.Busan Jagalchi Festival, Oct. 5 to 8#KoreasBiggestSeafoodMarket#FreshSeafood The Busan Jagalchi Festival is a seafood festival in Jagalchi Market, the biggest seafood market in Korea. Jagalchi Market and the surrounding area have been featured in various films and shows, including the critically acclaimed drama "Pachinko." Festivalgoers can enjoy fresh seafood and a variety of dishes made with Busan's freshest seafood ingredients. Guests can also participate in fun experiences like catching fish or bidding in a fish auction. The festival's highlight will be hosted by the Jagalchi ajimaes, the famous female vendors who entice visitors to "Come! See! Buy!" Join them as they try to break their Guinness World Record for making the "world's largest raw fish bibimbap." Afterward, you can eat a bowl of the hopefully-historic rice dish that you helped make.Address: 52 Jagalchihaean-ro, Jung-guDo not miss: Making of the world's largest raw fish bibimbap Instagram: @busan.jagalchi Satisfy your sweet tooth at the LaLaLa Festival.LaLaLa Festival, Oct. 20 to 22#bakery #coffee #performances The LaLaLa Festival will take place at the Busan National University Station on metro line 1. The festival will feature the eateries, cafes and iconic craft shops located in Geumjeong-gu district. Bring your family and friends to enjoy live performances and activities, a perfect way to spend a sunny fall afternoon.Address: 48 Jangjeononcheoncheon-ro, Geumjeong-guDo not miss: strolling the booths and enjoying food Fried mackerel is a healthy and delicious treatBusan Mackerel Festival, Oct. 27 to 29#fishing #seafoodauction #grilledfish #sashimi The Busan Mackerel Festival will take place at Songdo Beach, Seo-gu district. Mackerel, the official symbolic fish of Busan, is in season in the fall. Visitors can taste various cooked or raw mackerel at the festival. Eating is not the only reason to come. Numerous programs will be presented during the festival, such as catching mackerel, homemade boat races, a mackerel auction and others. Make sure to visit nearby attractions such as the Busan Air Cruise, a glass-bottomed cable car, and Songdo Skywalk, a winding walkway over the sea, which both offer incredible views of the surrounding ocean and mountains..Address: 100 Songdohaebyeon-ro, Seo-guDo not miss: catching mackerel, trying charcoal grilled mackerel and fresh sashimiCarefully curated coffee waits in Yeongdo.Yeongdo Coffee Festival, Nov. 3 to 5#coffee #oceanview #chillingThe Yeongdo Coffee Festival takes place at Amir Park on Yeongdo Island, dubbed the "Coffee Island." Visitors can learn about different coffee cultures, enjoy coffee tastings and listen to live music. If you need more caffeine, spend the rest of the day wandering around Yeongdo Island, which boasts some of Busan's best cafes. From small shops with cozy interiors to the country's largest cafe, P.ARK, indulge in a warm drink as you watch the ocean waves ebb and flow.Address: 55 Haeyang-ro, 301beon-gil, Yeongdo-guDo not miss: tasting flavored coffees from around the world
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Jeon: a simple dish to make any occasion special
Clockwise from top-left:`Jeonyueo,'are made with white fish; `donjeonya,'are meat and tofu patties; `Dongnae pajeon,' is a local take on Korean comfort food; and `sanjeok,' combinations include crab sticks and ham. As the oppressive humidity makes way for cool, gentle breezes, Koreans are reminded that Chuseok is just around the corner. The holiday can be traced back to Korea's agrarian past, when communities celebrated a boutiful harvest. Traditionally, it was known as "Hangawi," which refers to the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the date of the full Harvest Moon based on the lunar calendar. The holiday usually falls between September and November of the Gregorian Calendar used today. Similar to Thanksgiving holidays in the West, people celebrate Chuseok with family gathered around a table full of carefully prepared foods. People from all over the country spend hours travelling to their hometowns, seeking the comfort of loved ones and home cooking. Among the many dishes prepared for a Chuseok celebration, "jeon" are most closely associated with the holiday.■ A staple of the Korean holiday table Actually, jeon are a must-have food for any celebration, not just Chuseok. Also called "zzizim" in Busan and the surrounding area, jeon can be any protein, vegetable, or combination thereof, coated in a flour batter and fried. "Jeonyueo" are jeon made with any white fish, typically pieces of cod or brown croaker. In some areas, it is common to use shark meat. In any case, pieces of fish are seasoned, dusted with flour and dipped into beaten eggs before being pan-fried. The cooking method results in a tasty piece of fish that is crispy on the outside while juicy and tender on the inside.※Jeonyueo Recipe ▷Ingredients 12-15 filets of cod or other white fish (fresh or frozen), 200g of flour or Korean pancake mix (부침가루), 2-3 eggs beaten, salt and black pepper, oil for frying.▷Steps 1. Defrost the fish if necessary. Put the fish filets into a large bowl and gently season with salt and pepper. 2. Cover the fish with the flour and mix it until each piece of fish is lightly coated. 3. Heat a pan over medium and coat the bottom of the pan with oil. 4. When the pan is ready, take a piece of fish, shake off any excess flour, and dip it into the beaten eggs. The fish should be fully coated with the egg mixture. Repeat as necessary. 5. Carefully lay the fish into the pan, but don't overcrowd it. Fry each piece until both sides are golden brown. 6. Serve and enjoy! Other popular jeon include"donjeonya,"small patties made of ground meat mixed with finely chopped green onions and tofu; and "sanjeok," thinly sliced protein and vegetables skewered on small, wooden sticks.■ Perfect for sharing "Pajeon" are savory crowd-pleasers, perfect for any Korean meal. Often called a "Korean Pancake," pajeon refers to any jeon made with a flour batter that uses green onions as a prominent ingredient. Other ingredients can be mixed in, like shredded vegetables or a mix of seafood. Crisp at the edges, soft in the center, and filled with delicious ingredients, these are irresistible and comforting pancakes, best enjoyed on a rainy day. "Dongnae pajeon" is a local take on the dish, with slightly different ingredients, such as rice flour, in the batter. Unlike other pajeon, each ingredient is layered in the pan before being covered with the batter. The resulting pancake has a thin and crispy exterior with a soft and gooey center. Pair it with a glass of "makgeolli," or rice wine.※ Seafood Dongnae Pajeon Recipe▷ Ingredients 2 bunches of green onion, 85g of flour, 65g of rice flour, 315ml of ice cold water, 2 eggs, 6 pieces of shelled and deveined shrimp, 1 handful of clam meat, salt and black pepper, oil for frying.▷ Steps 1. Remove the roots of the green onions and thoroughly clean each stalk with water. 2. Mix the seafood in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. 3. In a medium-sized bowl, make the batter by thoroughly combining one egg, both flours and water. 4. Heat a large fry pan over medium heat and add enough cooking oil to coat. 5. Now it's time to layer. Take half of the onions, dip them into the batter and spread them into a single layer on the bottom of the pan. Spread the seafood mixture on top. Use the remaining onions to cover the seafood. Then, ladle more batter on top until everything is thinly coated. 6. Once the bottom is nicely browned, flip the whole pancake over and cover with a lid. 7. Once browned, flip it over again. Crack the remaining egg on top of the pancake and spread it into a thin layer. Cover the pan with a lid and continue cooking until the egg is cooked through.8. Serve and enjoy!
Life
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[Column] An Aspiring City Becoming MICHAEL PAUL BÉGIN studied geography at the State University of New York at Geneseo and holds a doctoral degree in the same from the University of Kentucky. A dual national of USA and Canada, Michael has made Busan his permanent home. When we were kids, nothing motivated me and my sister more than a few simple words from Mom or Dad: ‘we’re having company.’ With the news that we would soon be honored with a visit from friends, neighbors or relatives, our family would then spend the next hours or perhaps days busying ourselves with the requisite preparations in the interest of putting our best foot forward for the occasion. This entailed the usual frantic cleaning, decorating and/or yard work in order to get the family home in its most presentable condition, be it for the holidays or just a weekend gathering. Multiple trips to the market were sometimes necessary when preliminary shopping lists proved incomplete: insufficient quantities of snacks or soda; mom needs butter for her homemade dessert recipes; the upstairs bathroom is short on toilet paper. You know the drill, because almost every family entertains at least once in a while. Letting outsiders in has a way of keeping us on our toes, alive with the anticipation of another chance to remind ourselves that having something, such as a newly-renovated kitchen or a lovely backyard flower garden, is more meaningful and appreciated when shared.Living in Busan this past year has been very reminiscent of this experience. Like a family getting ready for guests arriving from a distant place, this ambitious city has been engaged in a high-gear mobilization to essentially gift-wrap Busan like a Christmas present. The prospect of hosting the 2030 World Expo has infused the city with purpose and unified it with a common goal. This is our home; we’re proud of it; we’re ready to welcome the world in the spirit of openness, hospitality and mutual benefit.Just walk around the city and see for yourself. The amazing and wonderful Busan Citizen’s Park has been resplendent with festivals, elaborate floral displays, and cultural events all year long. The city’s many subway and elevated rail stations feature new comforts, conveniences and aesthetic enhancements that many native locals have never seen before. The Busan Fireworks Festival this year pulled out all the stops and delivered a stunning and unforgettable display that dwarfed those of previous years, setting a whole new standard. The 2023 Busan Film Festival attracted artists, directors and cinephiles from all over the country and the world for yet another successful gathering in Centum City. Shopping and entertainment districts, such as those at Nampo-dong and Seomyeon, continually offer new experiences and special events, such as the Jeonpo Coffee Festival, and are especially fun around the holidays when these areas are thoroughly and properly festooned.There’s more. Head to the vibrant and popular Gwangan Beach area every Saturday evening for a stunning, colorfully-coordinated drone display featuring a different ‘K-Culture’ theme every week. Enjoy a delicious and inexpensive bowl of seafood noodles at Haeundae Market before a leisurely nighttime stroll along the scenic beachfront, now featuring a variety of inspired, artful displays of creative illumination intended to enhance the experience. Take the new Coastal Trolley for some excellent ocean views on your way to Songjeong Beach, with stops along the way to enjoy a host of dessert cafes, boutiques, restaurants and drinking places. The very long list continues.Living in a city with such outsized Expo ambitions has been instructive. The experience provides ample evidence to suggest that individual efforts toward success and prosperity can simultaneously operate on a more collective level of benefit; private interests cooperate in synergy with municipal, regional and national policy directives that create the win-win scenarios that encourage participation, growth and investment To illustrate: Busan is becoming a more cosmopolitan city -- a worthy goal for a variety of reasons. First, the unavoidable internationalization of its labor force takes on a very positive and hopeful veneer in this context. Busan also becomes a more attractive place for foreign talents to study, train and perhaps settle down here, making valuable contributions across their productive years. Far beyond floating eco-cities and marine taxi services, hosting the Expo would give the city a much-needed regional boost in order to smooth out the country’s development gradient, given the substantial economic dominance of the capital region. Back at the family home in New York, it’s the end of the 1982 Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Our illustrious guests have gone home happy. Uncle Bob was gifted a bottle of his favorite wine; Cousin Eric had fun getting on my nerves; Auntie Anne wants us to return the visit next summer when her daylilies are in bloom. We are exhausted but also happy, and everyone had a good time. When we do this again, we know we’ll have another chance to tidy up properly, stock up on ginger ale and mixed nuts, and we’ll be better off for the experience of having shared our home with those who are already looking forward to coming back. Cheers, Busan. We’re off the hook for now, but the 2030 World Expo campaign amounted to so much more than simple window dressing.Contributed by MICHAEL PAUL BÉGIN
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[Column] Living in Busan
Duncan
Morris is a British citizen and Associate Professor at Busan University of
Foreign Studies. Professor Morris is involved in proofreading the Haeundae,
Gijang, and Ulsan English newsletters. He also participated in World Expo 2030
campaign as proofreader of a letter to Korean War Veterans urging them to
support the city from a local Busan mayor.It was
16 years ago that I first came to Korea, and I have been living in Busan all of
those years. Over that time, I have seen Busan transform from a mostly unknown
second-city (for foreign travelers) into a successful tourist spot that is
often the favoured destination for those visiting Korea. It has been inspiring
to see Busan galvanize the city towards winning the World Expo 2030 over the
last year in an all-out push, against some strong rivals.Prior to
coming to Busan, I lived in Brighton, Southeast England, known for its large community
of international students who attend the numerous language schools offering ESL
classes. So, it was around 2005, several years before I made the jump to Busan
that I was first introduced to Korean friends. They were living abroad for the
first time in a new country and their curiosity, enthusiasm, great sense of
humor, and close-knit friendships were charming. Through these friends I
started to learn about Korean culture, language, and food. It was because of
these friends (and one – now my wife) I was encouraged to come and teach
English in Korea.In 2007
Busan was not on the radar of many international travelers and I remember
scanning the city through Google Earth to try and get a sense of what Busan was
like. The change in Busan has been considerable since 2007. Shortly after I arrived,
Shinsegae Centum became the largest department store in the world. The skyline has
grown ever higher each year, now with giant glass skyscrapers stretching into
the sky. Parks have been added to the city, and walking and cycle paths now
feature along all the city rivers. In my first year here, there were few places
to get a good strong cup of coffee, now the options are endless. International
restaurants proliferate alongside the traditional Busan seafood fare. Over the
last 10 years international attention for Busan came through culture too. Featuring
in the films Train to Busan (2016) then Black Panther (2018), and
last year’s Decision to Leave (Park Chan Wook). The Busan International
Film Festival is now the biggest film festival in Asia.I live with my wife and two sons in the Gwangalli area of Busan.
Although the beaches of Busan are famous for summer swimming, they are at their
best at other times of the year – a cold, fresh, sunny autumn day for example
when the crowds are absent. I look
forward to the annual local festivals that cycle round every season. Starting
the year watching the early morning sunrise from the beach with thousands of
people on New Year Day I now consider a great way to start the New Year. Later
in February there is the full moon fire festival (Daeboreum/대보름)to cheer the end of winter with its big beach bonfires. Gwangalli
alone has a spring fishing festival (Eobang/어방축제), numerous music festivals, a
major fireworks festival and now weekly drone shows. As an
expatriate and permanent resident in Korea I feel lucky to have chosen Busan to
live in. The people of Busan have been overwhelmingly warm and friendly. My
teaching work at BUFS is enjoyable and rewarding. I have had a variety of
experiences I wouldn’t have had in my home country – such as several interviews
on the local Busan radio station.Now the winner of the World Expo 2030 has been announced. Although
it is disappointing that Busan didn’t clinch the bid for the Expo, it won’t affect
the direction of change that Busan is moving in: Modernizing,
internationalizing, and rising up through the ranks of best city to live in and
visit. It needn’t be necessary to host a world fair to show the world that
already Busan is Good.Contributed by Duncan Morris
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An introduction to Busan’s support programs for foreign residents
Busan Metropolitan City offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at fostering a multicultural society and helping foreign residents adapt to the local community.Some 55,000 foreign nationals live in Busan, and the foreign population is growing. As such, there are ongoing efforts to establish new systems and expand existing support to help foreign residents settle more effectively.Here are the current and forthcoming foreign resident support services offered by Busan City:1. Award-winning medical interpretationThe Busan Foreign Residents Center provides in-house interpretation services at the Busan Medical Center, one of the largest general hospitals in the region. Foreign nationals can receive professional medical interpretation in Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, Filipino and English. Only one language option is available per day, depending on the scheduled interpreters. The service is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Reservations are not required.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety recognized the initiative as the country’s best practice in supporting foreign residents. ◎ Busan Medical Center: 359 World cup-daero, Yeonje-gu2. Full-service interpretation and translationSince 2012, the city has provided free interpretation and translation assistance to foreign residents. Volunteers can translate documents or accompany residents to government offices and public hospitals.The service is provided by the Busan Foreign Residents Center in 16 languages and the Busan Global City Foundation in 12 languages. Advanced booking is required.Visit each organization’s official website for more information. ◎ Busan Foreign Residents Center: bfwc.or.kr ◎ Busan Global City Foundation: bfic.kr3. English-Friendly financial servicesBNK Busan Bank will launch an English-friendly priority counter at three branches: BNK Busan Bank Head Office in Nam-gu, the Haeundae Financial Center in Haeundae-gu and the Gwangan-dong Financial Center in Suyeong-gu.BNK Busan Bank is currently screening qualified staff who are proficient in English in order to provide easy and convenient banking to foreign residents. The bank plans to expand the initiative to areas of the city that have a high concentration of foreign students and workers. ◎ BNK Busan Bank Head Office: 30 Munhyeongeumyung-ro, Nam-gu ◎ Haeundae Financial Center: 35-1 Jungdong 1-ro, Haeundae-gu ◎ Gwangan-dong Financial Center: 4 Suyeong-ro 618beon-gil, Suyeong-gu
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Sustainable living with nature
Eulsukdo Ecological Park is an oasis in the city. Citizens can enjoy walking, cycling, and relaxing in a beautiful natural setting. The Nakdonggang River, Korea's longest river, starts in the Taebaek Mountains in Gangwon-do Province. It winds over 500 kilometers down to Busan, where it empties into the Korea Strait. The estuary and delta formed by the Nakdonggang River is a sanctuary for various plants and animals in the region. It has also become a sanctuary for Busan citizens, who seek out the tranquil natural environment as an antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is home to several ecological parks; among them, the parks on Eulsukdo Island best represent the city's belief in "sustainable living with nature," a pillar of Busan's bid to host the World Expo 2030. Trails line the park. Silvergrass shines in the fall sun.■ Nature and recovery, from landfill to park Eulsukdo Island means "clear water, many birds," but that was not always the case. From 1993 to 1997, the site was a landfill. However, as citizens prioritized environmental protections in the early aughts, city officials began to protect the area and revitalize the ecosystem. Since then, Eulsukdo Island has transformed into a natural haven full of diverse wildlife and lush vegetation. Eulsukdo Island is divided into two sections: Ecological Park and Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park. The Ecological Park is a leisure destination for people who want to bathe in its natural beauty. It features picnic areas, sports fields, plenty of walking and cycling paths, and a lake. The natural setting is beautiful in every season; people enjoy the colorful flowers in spring, the fiery colors of fall foliage and plumes of silvergrass, the verdant greenery in the summer, and the majesty of bird migrations in winter. There are several ways to enjoy Eulsukdo. You can ride a bicycle, either your own or from a nearby rental station, and breathe in the fresh air. You can spend a relaxing afternoon sipping a coffee at one of the area's trendy cafes. You can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, Busan or the Eulsukdo Cultural Center and experience art and music so beautiful it is only rivaled by the natural settings just outside. Awe-inspiring beauty. The other side of the island is the Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park, a protected land considered one of Asia's largest habitats for migratory birds. Visitors can only access this area via the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center, which features panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands. The best time to visit is during late fall and early winter, as you can watch flocks of birds resting before continuing their trips to warmer climes. A bird is released into the wild. The center also acts as a rehabilitation center for injured animals and offers education programs on wildlife and conservation.Things to do:1. Rent a bike and ride around the park.2. Snap pictures of the lovely silvergrass3. Explore the Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park on the buggy car departing from the Nakdong Estuary Eco CenterPlease note: The Exhibition Hall at the Eco Center is currently under construction. The hall is expected to reopen in January 2024.※Eulsukdo Eco Park and Eco CenterAddress: 1240 Nakdongnam-ro, Saha-gu
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Busan is a cinephile paradise
October in Korea boasts the perfect weather for outdoor activities. Take a stroll under flame-colored trees or lay out a picnic and relax in the fresh air.While these are worthwhile options, try something novel and visit an outdoor cinema. Busan is the "City of Film" after all.With sand between your toes and the ocean breeze on your face, the Gwangalli Beach Cinema is a better movie-going experience than 4DX.■ Films with an ocean soundtrack Visitors flock to Gwangalli Beach to walk its sandy shores, hear the tranquil ebb and flow of waves, and watch movies. The Gwangalli Beach Cinema is open every Friday at 8 p.m. from March to November in front of the Millak Raw Fish Center. Beachgoers can enjoy a movie on the outdoor screen, which measures 6.4-meters wide by 3-meters tall. Admission is free, so grab some snacks and bring a picnic blanket to enjoy a film in the cool beach air. In addition, 50 camping chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Screenings may be cancelled due to inclement weather or other beach events.※Gwangalli Beach CinemaLocation: in front of the Millak Raw Fish Center, 1 Millaksubyeon-ro, Suyeong-guSchedule: 8 p.m. every Friday from March to NovemberTickets: freeWebsite: Suyeong.go.krParking opens at 6 p.m., so get there early. (source: Visit Busan)■ A private screening in public Yeongdo Island boasts the city's only drive-in movie theater. Enjoy the latest films while sitting in the privacy of your own car. Opened in May 2023, the CGV Drive In is located in Zone 7-2 of the Taejongdae Amusement Park parking lot. Up to 142 cars can enter the outdoor cinema. The mega-sized screen offers spectacular views. The audio is played on a radio frequency, allowing each vehicle to play the audio at their own volume. The drive-in is open year-round. Screenings are held at 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday and at 8 and 10:10 p.m. Friday to Sunday. ※CGV Drive In Yeongdo Address: 1009 Dongsam-dong Yeongdo-guSchedule: 8 p.m. every Monday to Thursday, 8 and 10:10 p.m., Friday to SundayReservations: cgv.co.kr/ticket, or via the CGV mobile app, or at the drive-in box officeTickets (per vehicle): 26,000 won from Monday to Thursday, 30,000 won from Friday to SundayInstagram: @taejongdae_cinemaThe crisp fall air sets the perfect mood for an outdoor movie. (source: Busan Ilbo)■ BIFF Everywhere and Community BIFF The BIFF Everywhere program started in 2021 to boost the movie festival atmosphere throughout the city and ensure that every citizen can enjoy Busan's top cultural event. BIFF will present movie screenings and events at various locations, including Millac the Market, Busan Citizens' Park, Yeongdo Jonaegi Sweet Potato History Museum, and Dongnae Hyanggyo Confucian Academy. In its 6th year, Community BIFF was established to celebrate the BIFF audience and give them more ways to participate. This year, the event will take place in Nampo-dong, BIFF's birthplace. Parties, movie screenings, and hands-on activities await festivalgoers. BIFF Everywhere and Community BIFF will occur from Oct. 6 to 9. ※BIFF Everywhere and Community BIFFDate: Oct. 6 to 9Websites: BIFF Everywhere: everywhere.biff.kr Community BIFF: community.biff.kr
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Life is better on the water
Gwangandaegyo Bridge in the blue hour creates a romantic atmosphere perfect for your Instagram feed.The blue hour, from the French expression "l'heure bleue," refers to the time of day each morning and evening when there is neither full daylight nor complete darkness. During this time, the remaining sunlight takes on a mostly blue shade and sets the perfect backdrop for a luxurious yacht tour. Busan is Good, the city's English newspaper, invites you to embark on this dream-like experience unique to Busan.Take in the skyline while lounging in comfort.Passengers embarking the Haeundae River Cruise. ■ Haeundae River Cruise The Haeundae River Cruise, which began operation in November 2020, offers a two-story, 49-foot catamaran yacht. The vessel can accommodate up to 40 people for public or private tours, but the operators limit the number of passengers to create a more comfortable experience. Passengers can lounge in a spacious indoor space or take in panoramic views from the top deck. For an affordable and delightful option, consider the Public Tour, which charts a course based on feedback from previous customers. Tickets for a 60-minute tour range between 10,000 and 30,000 won, and people can take a daytime, sunset or nighttime ride. Tours depart daily every hour on the hour from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. To experience the magical blue hour and night view of the ocean, opt for a tour between 6 and 7 p.m. during late summer. All tours depart from the APEC Naru Park dock on the Suyeonggang River. The yacht sails past the Busan Cinema Center toward Jwasuyeong Bridge before settling under the majestic skyscrapers of Marine City. Afterward, the boat passes under the Gwangandaegyo Bridge before returning to the dock. To secure your spot on the yacht tour, contact the company via phone or KakaoTalk to confirm the departure schedule and make a reservation. Tickets can be purchased online via the Haeundae River Cruise website or at their ticket box in APEC Naru Park in Centum City. Passengers must arrive at the ticketing office 30 minutes prior to their departure time to receive a boarding pass. A valid ID is required to board the vessel.※ Haeundae River Cruise• Address: 85 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu• Website: haeundaerivercruise.com• Inquiry: 051-711-1789■ Diamond Bay Another option to enjoy a lovely voyage in Busan is via the Diamond Bay Yacht Cruise, which sets sail from the Yongho-dong neighborhood of Nam-gu district. Diamond Bay boasts the largest catamaran yacht in Asia and travels 2 routes: the day tour to Oryukdo Island and the night tour which passes Gwangandaegyo Bridge on the way to APEC Nurimaru and the Haeundae area. Each tour lasts 50 minutes. The yacht accommodates up to 92 passengers. Private tours with custom services, like onboard catering, are also available.※ Diamond Bay Yacht Cruise• Address: 101 Bunpo-ro, Yongho-dong, Nam-gu• Website: diamondbay.co.kr• Inquiry: 051-200-2002