Life
My Busan Story ② Lost in Gamcheon, Found in Busan
"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 Martín Glikman from Canada.
Martin Glikman remembers the warmth he felt in Busan.
It was early morning in Gamcheon Culture Village. The sun started to shine on the colorful rooftops, and the narrow streets were quiet, except for some voices echoing through the streets.
I had wandered around the streets for some time, it was time to leave, but I had no clue how. I did not want to use my phone, and all roads seemed identical.
Then I heard a group of grandmas talking nearby. It sounded like they were yelling. Their voices carried clearly, loud, warm, and unmistakably Busan. I nervously followed the sound and asked, "죄송한데요. 여기서 어떻게 나가요?"
They smiled and immediately answered in Busan dialect, speaking fast and confidently. I barely understood anything. My Korean was standard and straight out of a textbook. Theirs was natural and local. But instead of giving up, they laughed kindly, repeated themselves more slowly, and added gestures to help me understand.
They even taught me how to say a few phrases in Busan dialect, correcting my pronunciation and showed interest in where I was from and why I was in Busan. I wasn't just getting directions, I was learning, connecting, and being welcomed.
That small moment stayed with me, it was my first time using my Korean in Busan, and instead of being embarrassed or shy, I was welcomed. Despite a language gap, they welcomed me as a neighbor, not merely a traveler.
There are moments like those all over Busan, sincere, raw kindness from people who welcome you as one of their own.
That morning, I was just trying to find my way out of Gamcheon. But I found something more meaningful: the warmth of local people, the charm of Busan dialect, and a city that embraces you even when you're lost.
That's what makes Busan special to me.