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The happiest Koreans are in Busan
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Citizens enjoying the cherry blossoms and yellow canola flowers along the Oncheoncheon Stream. Dongnae-Gu Office
According to a government survey, Busanites are the most satisfied citizens in the country. Busan, the second largest city in Korea and the maritime capital, took first place in the nation's work-life balance index and happiness index.
The happiness and satisfaction of Busan citizens are attributed to the city's beautiful natural environment, easy-to-access infrastructure, and safety. In particular, when it comes to safety, Busan is one of the safest cities in the world. The International Safe Community Certifying Centre (ISCCC) designated Busan as an "international safe city" for the first time back in 2014. The city was re-certified in 2019, the first metropolitan city in the world to receive this recognition twice. Busan was honored for its steady efforts in safety promotion and injury prevention.
Busan's reputation for safety is well earned. As of Oct. 2022, over 15,000 surveillance cameras have been installed throughout the city. The cameras are used to prevent crimes and to mobilize emergency services where they are needed.
The city government will continue its focus on creating a safe environment as Busan prepares its bid to host the World Expo 2030. To that end, the city will invest over 675 billion won in various safety projects. Under this plan, the city will establish accident prevention infrastructure aiming for zero-deaths related to natural disasters. Furthermore, Busan plans to install 24/7 CCTV (closed-circuit television) around city beaches to prevent drowning-related deaths. Finally, the city wants to improve emergency response rates; the goal is for firefighters to respond at the scene within seven minutes on more than 90% of such occasions.
Other contributing factors to citizens'satisfaction include Busan's transportation and commercial infrastructure. The transit system - four metro lines, light rail transit systems and buses - takes citizens and tourists around Busan at reasonable fares. The city also has shopping destinations to satisfy every budget. There are 10 department stores, including the world's largest Shinsegae Centum City, two premium outlets and 219 traditional markets across the city.
Busan and its safe and happy citizens look forward to welcoming visitors from around the globe for the World Expo 2030.