Life
Busan opens commercial use of Boogi to companies nationwide
Boogi, the beloved seagull, has been an employee at City Hall since 2021, where he plays a key role as the city’s communication mascot.
He will now represent Busan nationwide.
Since June 2025, Busan City has expanded eligibility to use Boogi’s name, image and likeness, allowing businesses across Korea to use the city’s official mascot.
Previously, the use of the character was limited to small businesses and establishments based in Busan. Under the expanded policy, companies nationwide may now produce and sell merchandise featuring Boogi.
Hio Coffee was the first business to adopt Boogi following the expansion. The Busan-founded, takeout-focused coffee brand, which operates locations nationwide, introduced cup sleeves featuring Boogi dressed as a barista.
The collaboration has drawn customer interest and demonstrated how the character can be incorporated to enhance brand appeal, prompting increased interest from other companies.
Businesses seeking to use Boogi’s name, image and likeness may apply through Witzshop, a licensing transaction platform. A 3% sales commission applies, while Busan-based companies qualify for a reduced rate of 2%.
Small and medium-sized businesses located in Busan may also apply to use Boogi’s image for free during designated application periods in April and November. Approved use is valid for three years, with extensions available upon application before expiration.
Busan City encourages the use of Boogi across a wide range of products, excluding adult-only items, such as alcohol and tobacco, as well as content or products deemed socially inappropriate.
Additional information is available on Busan City’s official website.
◎ Apply here: Click
◎ Announcements regarding Busan’s Intellectual Property: Click
<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>
nationwide: 전국적으로 expand: 확장하다 eligibility: 자격 merchandise: 상품 expiration: 만료
Editor: Song Soomi
Copy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy