Busan is good

News

• 2025 Busan Media Members to showcase the city's charms The 2025 Busan Media Members are excited to get to work.　The 2025 Busan Media Members officially launched on March 14 with its largest roster to date. The multicultural group comprises 120 citizen reporters and includes members from countries such as Singapore, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Turkiye.　This citizen-driven media team will use various digital platforms and social media channels to report on Busan policies, events, culture and tourism. Their efforts are expected to enhance Busan's reputation both domestically and internationally.　Outstanding contributors will be rewarded and recognized by Mayor Heong-joon Park.
• Busan makes a splash in English education  "English Waves" Level 1　On March 11, Busan Metropolitan City launched "English Waves," an English-language program for young learners up to the second grade of elementary school.　Unlike traditional learning methods that focus on memorizing words and phrases, this curriculum takes a child-centered approach. It utilizes the Content and Language Integrated Learning method to help children learn English while exploring subjects like science, history and geography.　The curriculum encourages independent intellectual, emotional and social development while respecting each child's learning style and progress.　"English Waves" is divided into two stages: Level 1 is oriented towards kids ages 4 to 6, while Level 2 is for first and second graders. Each level includes eight workbooks and accompanying audio files, as well as engaging narratives to teach children vocabulary, grammar and phonics.　The books feature adorable characters, including Boogi, Busan's seagull mascot, and highlight the city's landmarks and festivals, such as Haeundae Beach, Yongdusan Park and the Busan Fireworks Festival.　The citywide Deullak Nallak children's centers offer free English classes that use the "English Waves" curriculum. The classes, led by native-English speakers, provide a convenient and enjoyable way for kids to develop their language skills. Enrollment for the second batch of students begins in August.　Teachers and caregivers can access "English Wave" materials for free via Busan's English-Friendly City website or the Deullak Nallak homepage.　To celebrate the launch, Busan City is giving away 30 physical copies of "English Waves" through a raffle open until April 30.Enter the raffle : https://naver.me/FjbKwoQJ
• Busan sets a blueprint for 15-minute cities Carlos Moreno, who popularized the 15-minute city concept, had high praise for Busan's urban development policies.　Carlos Moreno, the renowned scholar behind the 15-minute city concept, visited Busan from March 23 to 24 to experience the city's urban development firsthand. 　A professor at the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne, Mr. Moreno introduced the 15-minute city concept in 2015. The model envisions cities where residents can access essential services, such as work, shopping, healthcare, education, and leisure, within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. The idea promotes sustainable, human-centric urban living by reducing car dependency, enhancing local economies, and improving overall quality of life.　Mr. Moreno's connection with Busan began in 2022 when he participated in an online discussion with Mayor Heong-joon Park regarding the city's 15-minute city initiative. Later that year, he visited Busan for the World Knowledge Forum, where he praised the city's urban planning efforts.Mr. Moreno visiting children at the Deullak Nallak in City Hall.　On his most recent visit, Mr. Moreno witnessed Busan's plans come to life. On March 23, he visited the Deullak Nallak children's center in Busan City Hall and the Cheongnyeon Jakdangso in Jung-gu District.　The Deullak Nallak program is a key pillar of the initiative, as it provides educational and cultural experiences for children throughout the city. The Cheongnyeon Jakdangso is a culture, leisure and work space for young adults.　The following day, Mr. Moreno explored Danggam Linear Park. Designed to provide residents with green spaces close to home, the award-winning park features pedestrian-friendly pathways and Korean-style gardens. 　Mr. Moreno then met Mayor Park at Domoheon to share his impressions. He commended Busan's efforts, noting that it was impressive to see citizens enjoying the new spaces and infrastructure. He also expressed optimism about Busan's potential to lead the expansion of 15-minute cities across Asia.　Moreno plans to host a global conference on 15-minute cities in Paris on Sept. 4 and invited Busan to share its experiences.

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Enjoy Busan

• The thrilling experience of walking on water The Songdo Cloud Walk is one of the most popular attractions in Western Busan. Make a full day out of your visit by taking a ride on the Songdo Marine Cable Cars as well.　If the monotony of daily life has you feeling trapped, take a walk on the water. Busan's skywalks offer a breathtaking escape from the daily grind. These unique walkways provide panoramic ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze. Whether visiting with loved ones or exploring solo, these skywalks promise a thrilling adventure.Oryukdo Skywalk■Oryukdo Skywalk　Perched on a coastal cliff in Yongho-dong, Nam-gu District, Oryukdo Skywalk offers visitors stunning views from 35 meters above the water. First built in 2013, the skywalk was expanded in 2023 to a length of 16.5 meters and a width of 4.5 meters. The walkway's 2.4-centimeter-thick tempered glass floor provides a dizzying look at the waves below.　The skywalk overlooks Oryukdo, a group of islands whose number appears to change with the tides. Comprising six islets-Sol, Shield, Lighthouse, Eagle, Cave and Drill-this natural landmark is best observed using the tower viewer at the skywalk's end.ºAddress: 137 Oryukdo-ro, Nam-guºHours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last entry at 5:50 p.m.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: Visitors are required to wear shoe covers provided at the entrance. Entry may be restricted in inclement weather.Cheongsapo Daritdol ObservatoryHaewol Observatory■Cheongsapo Daritdol & Haewol Observatories　Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, a U-shaped skywalk perched on the eastern cliffs of Haeundae-gu District, extends 191 meters over the sea. Originally a straight 73-meter walkway, it was expanded in July 2024. The reinforced glass floor offers an unobstructed view of the waves crashing below, while the final section, made completely of glass, tests the bravery of visitors.　Nearby, Haewol Observatory, also completed in July 2024, features a crescent-shaped main tower, a U-shaped skywalk, and a 15-meter circular glass-floored plaza. Standing 22 meters above the ocean on the southern tip of Wausan Mountain, it provides an unparalleled viewing experience.　Both observatories are ideal for sunrise and sunset visits when crowds are smaller and the atmosphere is more serene. At night, LED lights illuminate the structures, enhancing their beauty.ºCheongsapo Daritdol Observatory: 3-9 Jungdong San, Haeundae-guºHaewol Observatory: 42-66 Jungdong San, Haeundae-guºHours: Both places open daily at 9 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. from March to May. No entry 10 minutes before closing.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: Entry may be restricted in inclement weather.Songdo Cloud Walk■Songdo Cloud Walk　Inspired by the historic Cloud Bridge that once graced Songdo Beach, the Songdo Cloud Walk is a modern seaside promenade extending over the water. At 365 meters long, it is the longest skywalk in Korea. With sections standing 5 to 9 meters above sea level, the tempered glass flooring enhances the thrill of walking above the ocean and mimics the feeling of bobbing along waves. The walk connects to Geobukseom Islet, the site of a local legend, a love story between the daughter of a sea dragon and a fisherman.　At night, the walkway is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a stunning photo opportunity. Visitors can also catch a close-up view of the Songdo Marine Cable Cars gliding above the sea.ºAddress: 129-4 Amnam-dong, Seo-guºHours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: The skywalk lights are turned on at 6 p.m.Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge■Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge　The entrance to the 127-meter bridge is located under the Songdo Marine Cable Car boarding area and connects Amnam Park to Dongseom Islet. It features steel  mesh walkways that provide views of the ocean below. Dongseom Islet itself offers sweeping views of Songdo Beach, Namhangdaegyo Bridge and Oryukdo.　As night falls, the bridge lights up, enhancing its romantic appeal. Designated photo zones invite visitors to capture unforgettable moments against the picturesque backdrop and enchanting lights.ºAddress: 620-53 Amnam-dong, Seo-guºHours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last entry at 5:30 p.m.ºAdmission: 1,000 won, or 800 won per person in groups of 10 or more.ºNote: The bridge is closed on the first and third Mondays of each month.
• Busan in Bloom ③ Cherry Blossoms source: visitbusanCherry blossoms epitomize the essence of spring. Their delicate pink hues transform the landscape and capture everyone's attention, if only for a brief moment. Blooming in late March and peaking in early April, they create a dreamlike scene, with petals drifting like pink snowflakes.🌸 Nakdonggang Riverside Cherry Blossom PathRunning within Samnak Ecological Park, this path is one of Busan's most iconic cherry blossom spots. Approximately 3,000 cherry trees line the 6.4-kilometer stretch between Gamjeon-dong, Sasang-gu District and the Buk-gu District border, forming a tunnel of falling pink petals. During peak bloom, visitors flock to experience the enchanting and romantic atmosphere.◎ Address: 29-36 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu🌸 Oncheoncheon StreamStretching from Dongnae-gu District to Yeonje-gu District, Oncheoncheon Stream provides a tranquil setting with cherry blossoms arching over its waters. The gentle stream and fluttering petals create a serene atmosphere for walking, jogging or cycling. Nearby cafes offer relaxing spots to enjoy the view with a drink.◎ Address: 451 Oncheoncheon-ro, Dongnae-gu<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>epitomize: 전형을 보여주다 essence: 본질 delicate: 섬세한 hue: 빛깔 stretch: 뻗다 flock: 떼를 지어 가다 enchanting: 황홀한 atmosphere: 분위기 tranquil: 고요한Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• Enjoy a spring day with Boogi! Embracing the energy of spring, Busan is excited to host “2025 Boosruk Day: Boogi Run” on April 19 at the Busan Cinema Center and the nearby Suyeong Riverside Trail. The event invites fans of Boogi to come together and have a great time.During the event, 250 people will take a leisurely 3-kilometer walk with Boogi and participate in various mini-games and events along the way. Mascots from Seo-gu and Geumjeong-gu districts will also join.The “Boogi Run” will begin with a warm-up session led by a professional running coach. Then, participants will walk along the Suyeonggang River, passing landmarks such as the Busan Cinema Center, APEC Naru Park and Suyeong Bridge.Hidden Boogi figures will be scattered along the course, with special prizes awarded to those who find them.During the run, a festival will also be held at the Busan Cinema Center. Visitors can enjoy live DJ performances and play childhood games made popular by “Squid Game,” such as Red Light Green Light, “Ddakji” (paper flipping) and “Biseokchigi” (flying stones).※ “2025 Boosruk Day: Boogi Run,” April 19◎ Website: https://litt.ly/boogi_booseureokday<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>embrace: 받아들이다 scattered: 흩어져있는 childhood: 어린시절 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 

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Food

• Where to eat: 'Taste of Busan 2025' 　Busan Metropolitan City has released "Taste of Busan 2025," the definitive guide for gourmands seeking authentic dining experiences in the city. Now in its 23rd year, "Taste of Busan" highlights the city's most beloved restaurants and cafes.　Selections are based on on-site evaluations and expert recommendations from industry professionals, food columnists and influencers, alongside data from local hygiene departments and online and offline reviews.　The guide is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese.　The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Notably, 20 of these establishments are also included in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025.　"Taste of Busan" provides a comprehensive overview of dining options throughout the city, from casual barbecue spots to sophisticated French-inspired fine dining restaurants. 　Haeundae-gu and Suyeong-gu districts, which form the epicenter of Busan's tourism, boast the most selections, with 29 and 22 eateries, respectively.　"Taste of Busan 2025" is available online via the city's official tourism portal Visit Busan, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, train stations, hotels and Gimhae International Airportlink : click
• Find your next favorite restaurant with ‘Taste of Busan 2025’ source: Taste of Busan 2025Busan City has released the 23rd edition of “Taste of Busan,” an annual showcase of the city’s favorite restaurants, bakeries and cafes. The free guidebook is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese.The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Each entry includes photos, menu highlights and other essential information. The guidebook also contains interviews with renowned local chefs, who share their insights on the local food scene and their culinary philosophies. More than just a list of restaurants, “Taste of Busan” introduces the origins and unique aspects of 13 local dishes, such as Dongnae pajeon (seafood and green onion pancake), milmyeon (cold wheat noodles), and dwaeji gukbap (pork soup and rice). It also highlights the best restaurants serving these traditional dishes, inviting readers to explore the rich world of local gourmet experiences. Notably, this edition introduces QR codes that link to multilingual menus at 50 restaurants. Since last year, Busan City has initiated the Multilingual Digital Menu Project to help local restaurants provide menus in multiple languages, thereby enhancing the convenience of international visitors. The menus are available in English, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Japanese, Vietnamese, Russian and Arabic. “Taste of Busan 2025” is available online via the Visit Busan tourism portal, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, select restaurants, consulates, the Busan Tourism Organization and relevant district offices. Additionally, starting in mid-April, Busan City will distribute pocket-sized maps indicating the location of the restaurants featured in “Taste of Busan” at tourist information centers.◎ View “2025 Taste of Busan”: click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>contain: 포함하다 renowned: 유명한 culinary: 요리의 philosophy: 철학 unique: 독특한 aspect: 모습 notably: 주목할만하게 initiate: 계획하다 enhance: 향상시키다 convenience: 편리함 relevant: 관련있는  district: 구(군)Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• New Busan restaurants featured in Michelin Guide 2025 　Busan's reputation as a gourmet destination remains as strong as ever, with 48 Busan restaurants earning a spot in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025, announced on Feb. 27. This marks an increase from the 43 selections in 2024, Busan돴s first year as a Michelin Guide destination.　The city now boasts 19 Bib Gourmand and 26 Selected eateries to go along with its three one-star restaurants.　Six new establishments have joined the list: naengmyeon specialist 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, bibimbap restaurant Bibijae, pork soup eatery Jeongjitgan, ox-bone soup shop Hanwolgwan, and beef barbecue spots Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant. 　Of these, 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, Bibijae, Jeongjitgan and Hanwolgwan received the prestigious Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes high-quality cuisine priced under 45,000 won per person.　Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant were included as "Selected" restaurants, a Michelin distinction for noteworthy establishments.　Busan's three Michelin-starred restaurants － Mori, Palette, and Fiotto － retained their one-star status, reaffirming their excellence and consistency. Fiotto also continues to hold the Michelin Green Star, an accolade for sustainable gastronomy.　A full list of the Michelin Guide 2025 Busan selections, including restaurant details, photos, and inspector reviews, is available on the Michelin Guide website(click) and mobile app.100.1.Pyeongnaeng●Address: 29 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.●Main Dish: Naengmyeon●Price level: ￦  Bib GourmandBibijae●Address: 45 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Thursdays.●Main Dish: Bibimbap●Price level: ￦  Bib GourmandJeongjitgan●Address: 6 Bibong-ro, Saha-gu●Hours: Open 24 hours a day●Main Dish: Dwaeji gukbap●Price level: ￦  Bib GourmandHanwolgwan●Address: 10 Gwangan-ro 62 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Mon to Fri, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.　(break 3 to 4:30 p.m.)　Weekends open until 10 p.m.●Main Dish: Gomtang●Price level: ￦  Bib GourmandBorn and Bred●Address: B1F Paradise Hotel, 296 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily, noon to 10 p.m.　(break 3 to 5:30 p.m.)●Main Dish: Steak●Price level: ￦￦￦￦Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant●Address: 333 Haeun daehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. 　(break 3 to 5 p.m.)●Main Dish: Barbecue●Price level: ￦￦

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Life

• Find the hidden objects and win a prize!  Hidden Objects : Mouse, Zipper, Bell, Beka Squid, Smartphone, Clothes Hanger, Shark, Match Stick, Toothbrush■How to participate① Search high and low: Find all the hidden objects in the picture.② Snap a picture: Take photos of the hidden objects you discover with your mobile phone ③ Scan the QR code below to join the event, or cut out the newspaper section with the hidden objects and send it via post. Busan is Good will randomly select 10 lucky participants to win a mobile gift voucher for cultural activities worth 10,000 won.■Participation Details■Period: April 1 to 20 (until 6 p.m.)■Result Announcement: April 25 on the Busan City Newspaper's official website (busan.go.kr/news)■Mailing Address: 1001 Jungang-daero, Yeonje-gu (Media Division of Busan City Hall)Participate : https://form.naver.com/response/eI04P6wfLmlXCHjc1fEYpw
• [INTERVIEW] Minjeong Kim wants you to learn Korean We met Minjeong Kim, a skillful Korean instructor at BGCF.　The Busan Global City Foundation offers free Korean language lessons for international residents. Classes are offered in 15-week sessions and range from basic, phonics-level courses to advanced speaking. Since its launch in 2006, the program has grown from 76 students from 13 countries to 452 students from 50 countries in 2023.　Busan is Good spoke with Minjeong Kim, a Korean language instructor at BGCF with nearly a decade of teaching experience, about her insights into language education.Q. What do you enjoy about teaching Korean?A. I feel proud and fulfilled when I see students who initially struggled with reading and speaking develop into fluent speakers. I feel truly grateful when students thank me for helping them see that learning Korean is a stepping stone towards their goals, rather than an obstacle.What is the most important aspect of teaching Korean?　Korean is unique in that a single phrase can carry multiple meanings. For instance, when someone says "이 음식이 정말 맛있네요" (i eumsigi jeongmal masinneyo), they are saying "the food is delicious," but the sentence also expresses that this is the first time they've tried the food or that they are surprised by how good it is. 　Native speakers inherently know the difference between that sentence and "이 음식이 정말 맛있어요" (i eumsigi jeongmal masisseoyo), which also means "the food is delicious," but without any added meaning.　The nuance comes from the different endings, as "네요" typically expresses the speaker's personal appreciation. An online translator would interpret the two sentences as exactly the same, but native speakers know they are not.　That is a key focus in my classes: Introducing the nuances in expressions and encouraging students to create sentences using them in real-time.Q. What are some characteristics of Korean learners in Busan?A. Busan attracts a diverse group of international residents, each with different backgrounds, occupations and reasons for learning Korean. People come from all over the world - Asia, Europe, America, and Africa - each pursuing their own goals. However, they do share something in common: a curiosity about the Korean language and culture.　Many students are particularly fascinated by Busan's dialect. Phrases like "밥 뭇나?" (Bap munna? "Have you eaten?") and "어데 가노?" (Eode gano? "Where are you going?") intrigue them, as does the unique usage of "어" (uh) - which, depending on tone and pitch, can mean both "yes" and "no." Q. How is the newly opened Busan Hangul Institute different from BGCF's existing programs?A. While the BGCF Korean classes are open to all international residents, classes at the Busan Hangul Institute are tailored specifically for international students in the city. It provides career-oriented Korean language education to help them secure jobs and settle in the city.　The school offers practical programs, including resume writing and job interview preparation. There are intermediate and advanced TOPIK test preparation courses, as well as small-group conversation and writing workshops.　This is just the beginning, and we hope to see growing interest in the program as we continue supporting international residents in Busan.Q. Do you have any advice for foreigners who want to learn Korean?A. There is a saying: "Learning a language is like opening a window to another culture." The Korean language will undoubtedly reveal new perspectives and experiences you never knew existed. I believe that learning Korean can significantly broaden your horizons, so please do not hesitate to take on the challenge. I wholeheartedly support your determination to pursue this journey. 　And, I hope to see you in one of our Korean classes!
• Regional Specialized Visas offer immigrants a path to permanent residency  Busan Metropolitan City will recruit foreign professionals for the 2025 Regional Specialized Visa Project from March 26 to April 25. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Justice, aims to address labor shortages, boost local economies and stabilize population levels by helping foreign nationals and their families settle and work in depopulated areas.In Busan, the designated areas include three districts experiencing population decline, Seo-gu, Dong-gu and Yeongdo-gu, and two at-risk areas, Jung-gu and Geumjeong-gu. Visa holders are required to work and reside in these government-designated areas, with specific conditions varying based on the visa type. Visa Categories and ChangesThis year’s recruitment covers three visa types:1) Regional Specialized Talent (F-2-R): Applicants must work and reside in a designated area, with some exceptions. For 2025, the Korean language proficiency requirement has increased from TOPIK Level 3 to Level 4. There are 150 F-2-R visas available in Busan.2) Regional Specialized Skilled Workers (E-7-4R): This new visa gives non-professional workers (E-9), maritime crew (E-10) and visiting workers (H-2) a path to permanent residency. There are 159 E-7-4R visas available in Busan.3) Regional Specialized Overseas Koreans (F-4-R): For 2025, there is no quota limit and applications are open until Sept. 30, 2026. Application ProcessF-2-R and E-7-4R visa applicants must submit the required documentation to their designated district office by 6 p.m. on April 25.F-4-R visa applicants must submit the required documents to either the Seo-gu, Dong-gu or Yeongdo-gu district office.For more information on visa types and eligibility requirements, visit the 2025 Regional Specialized Visa Project announcement page.※ 2025 Regional Specialized Visa Project, until April 25◎ Announcement: https://www.busan.go.kr/nbgosi/view?sno=71381&gosiGbn=A&curPage=1※ Inquiries regarding the F-2-R visa:◎ Seo-gu Office, Family Happiness Division: 051-240-4356◎ Dong-gu Office, General Affairs Division: 051-440-4111◎ Yeongdo-gu Office, Lifelong Education Division: 051-419-4525※ For inquiries regarding the E-7-4R visa:◎ Seo-gu Office, Family Happiness Division: 051-240-4356◎ Dong-gu Office, General Affairs Division: 051-440-4111◎ Yeongdo-gu Office, Lifelong Education Division: 051-419-4491◎ Jung-gu Office, General Affairs Division: 051-600-4114◎ Geumjeong-gu Office, Family Policy Division: 051-519-4365◎ Busan Global City Foundation: 1577-7716 (consultation and interpretation service available)◎ Busan Foreign Workers Support Center: 051-868-7606 (consultation and interpretation service available)◎ Busan Foreign Residents Center: 051-304-0900 (consultation and interpretation service available)※ For inquiries regarding the F-4-R visa:◎ Seo-gu Office, Family Happiness Division: 051-240-4356◎ Dong-gu Office, General Affairs Division: 051-440-4111◎ Yeongdo-gu Office, Lifelong Education Division: 051-419-4491◎ Busan Global City Foundation: 1577-7716 (consultation and interpretation service available)◎ Busan Foreign Residents Center: 051-304-0900 (consultation and interpretation service available)<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>recruit: 모집하다 labor: 노동의 shortage: 부족 boost: 끌어올리다 depopulated area: 과소 지역 district: 구역 proficiency: 유창성 permanent: 영구적인 residency: 거주 quota: 할당, 한도 requirement: 자격사항Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 

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Views

• No pain, no gain on the 'Secret Coffee Road' 　Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources, featuring long walks along beaches and gentle climbs up mountain slopes. 　The routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil are especially popular. These routes let hikers experience quaint villages, historical sites and more.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. 　Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.The coastal walking trail from Orangdae Park to Ananti at Busan Cove is an ideal place for a spring outing. The smooth path, endless blue sea and the sound of crashing waves make for a perfect stroll.■ YOLO Route 2　In Korean, the expression "go jin gam rae (고진감래)" can be translated as "sweetness after bitterness." Like the adage "no pain, no gain," "go jin gam rae" expresses the wisdom that one must endure a bitter hardship before a sweet reward.　The notion of "sweetness after bitterness" applies to many aspects of life and perfectly describes YOLO Route 2. Also known as the "Secret Coffee Road," YOLO Route 2 is a 16-kilometer, physically demanding course with a cumulative elevation of 580 meters. Hikers who brave the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and charming coffee houses.　The course starts at Gijang-gun County Office, a 10-minute walk from Gijang Station on the Donghae Line (exit 2). Following the Galmaetgil signs through Woosin Neoville Apartment Complex, trekkers encounter the first "bitter" challenge, a steep 230-meter climb up Bongdaesan Mountain. At the summit, visitors are greeted by views of the Gijang coastline and the East Sea.　Descending from Bongdaesan, the trail leads to Woljeon Village, home to the picturesque Jukseong Catholic Church. Though it looks like a place of worship, this iconic landmark and popular tourist attraction was originally built as a set for the television series "Dream" (2009).　Another hike up Bongdaesan leads to Daebyeonhang Port, where the "sweet" part of the route begins. From here, the route transforms into a scenic coastal walk and earns its "Secret Coffee Road" moniker. The course is dotted with an array of coffee shops. From luxurious cafes to cozy breweries, trekkers can find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee.Cafes along YOLO Route 2 feature great ocean views.Take a rest at the Songiljeong Pavilion at Songjeong Beach.YOLO Guide : Click
• In Busan, 'YOLO' means long walks by the sea 　Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are a collection of hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources. With long walks along beaches, gentle climbs up mountain slopes and invigorating dips in hot springs, the trails are beloved by citizens.　The collection of routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil is especially popular. The 10  routes combine hiking with cultural assets like quaint villages, cafes and historic sites.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. 　Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.■ YOLO Galmaet-gil Route 1-1　YOLO Route 1, also known as "The Beginning," starts on the sandy shores in Gijang-gun County in eastern Busan. The trail stretches 9.1 kilometers from Imnang Beach to Ilgwang Beach. The walk takes approximately three hours, featuring flat terrain with expansive ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves.　The journey begins at Imnang Beach, a serene location on Busan's easternmost shore. Its pristine white sand stretches over a kilometer, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea. Sinpyeong Small Park is the perfect place to rest tired legs. The ocean view, traditional pavilion and well-grown pine trees heal your body and mind.Take in the ocean at an observatory in Sinpyeong Small Park.Get a view of unique lighthouses at Chilamhang Port.　Heading south, walkers reach Chilamhang Port, known for its distinctive lighthouses. The port is famous for fresh conger eel sashimi, attracting visitors from across Korea. A notable stop is Chilamsagye, a bakery and cafe founded by Busan-born confectionery master Heung-yong Lee. Selected as a 2024 Taste of Busan establishment, it offers fresh pastries and coffee with stunning sea views.　The journey concludes at Ilgwang Beach, one of Gijang-gun's eight scenic wonders. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it a popular destination for families. At the central observatory, shaped like a ship's bow, visitors can take in an uninterrupted view of the horizon, marking the perfect end to this scenic coastal walk.Learn more about YOLO Galmaet-gil Course 1 : Click 
• Walking Along Busan: Eulsukdo Island It is rare to find a space where nature and culture come together like they do on Eulsukdo Island, which boasts nature reserves, museums and performance centers.　Eulsukdo Island, located at the western end of Busan, where the Nakdonggang River Estuary meets the sea, is an ideal destination for leisurely strolls. Its well-paved trails, refreshing river breeze and serene natural beauty are perfect for treating tired minds and bodies.　Covering approximately 80,000 square meters, Eulsukdo Island is a haven for wildlife, teeming with diverse plants and animals. In the 1950s, it was renowned as one of Asia's largest bird migration sites and remains home to numerous birds, such as whooper swans and mallards. However, the island faced a dark period in the 1990s when it was used as a landfill, disrupting its delicate ecosystem and deterring migratory birds. In the 2000s, an extensive ecosystem restoration project was undertaken, and through continuous efforts, Eulsukdo Island has successfully recovered, welcoming the return of its feathered visitors.　Beyond its ecological significance, Eulsukdo Island is also renowned for its cultural and artistic assets. The Nakdonggang Estuary Bank Bridge is a useful reference point for understanding the layout of the island. This bridge connects Saha-gu and Gangseo-gu districts and crosses over the island. Two main parks can be found west of the bridge, the Migratory Bird Park to the south and the Ecology Park to the north. The Migratory Bird Park provides a tranquil habitat for flora and fauna, while the Ecology Park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.　East of the bridge lies the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in 2018. The museum's unique architecture blends seamlessly with the verdant landscape of Eulsukdo Island. The museum offers an immersive experience through cutting-edge art, utilizing various media such as video, sound, and light. Its exhibitions enthrall visitors by demonstrating contemporary art's vital role in modern society, from technological collaborations to sharp social commentaries.　Northeast of Busan MoCA, visitors can find another iconic cultural hub with over two decades of history, the Eulsukdo Cultural Center. It houses a theater, an exhibition hall, an outdoor stage and a variety of cultural classes for the public. The surrounding sculpture park and the Water Exhibition Hall of the Korea Water Resources Corporation are popular with families.　Eulsukdo Island offers numerous opportunities for visitors to learn about the environment, enjoy scenic views and improve their well-being. It features a multi-purpose indoor sports complex, the Nakdonggang River Cultural Center, the Nakdonggang River Observatory and the National Youth Ecology Center. On weekends, the island's outdoor sports fields become a hive of activity. These include artificial turf football fields, futsal courts and little league baseball fields.A walking trail in Eulsukdo Ecological Park.The Vertical Garden at Busan MoCA.Eulsukdo Cultural Center and Sculpture Park.

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