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Busan shines as a work and play travel destination

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DJ NewJeansNim, a Korean comedian who DJs under a monk persona, captivates audience members at the Silent Music and Party event at Shiwol Village.

　The breeze during Festival Shiwol was crisp, setting the tone for a citywide celebration. A series of integrated festivals transformed Busan into an autumn hotspot, engaging visitors with a sensory experience of Korea in the fall.

　The peak of Festival Shiwol occurred on Oct. 5 and 6, with a festive atmosphere permeating every corner of the city. Anticipation and excitement filled the air, particularly at the main venues: the Busan Cinema Center, home to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF); Samnak Ecological Park, which hosted the Busan Rock Festival; and BEXCO, the site of the Shiwol Village.

　Haeundae-gu District, where the Busan Cinema Center is located, was the heart of the festivities. BIFF visitors enjoyed both the films and the scenic Haeundae Beach. Local businesses thrived, with one raw fish restaurant reporting a significant boost in sales during the festival period, primarily due to BIFF attendees.

　The 2024 Busan International Rock Festival at Samnak Ecological Park energized audiences against the backdrop of the Nakdong Estuary. This year's event featured 78 artists from around the world, drawing 60,000 rock fans to Busan. Notably, 44.6% of attendees traveled from Seoul and surrounding areas specifically for the festival.

　Haeundae Beach also hosted the K-Music Good Night Concert series, offering live entertainment under the stars. Meanwhile, the 21st Busan International Food Expo and the Busan Marina Chef Challenge 2024 elevated the city's reputation as a gastronomic hub. A special booth commemorating 140 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and Italy featured presentations on traditional Italian pasta. Visitors had the chance to explore a range of cuisines, from temple food and local Busan delicacies to Spanish fare.

　Despite the rain, festivalgoers remained enthusiastic. Shiwol Village and the Busan Craft Beer Masters Challenge, located outside of BEXCO, attracted large crowds. The Silent Music and Party event, where participants danced to music played through wireless headphones, had rave reviews. DJ NewJeansNim, a comedian-turned-DJ known for his monk-like appearance, captivated audiences on Oct. 6.

　Festival Shiwol, an eight-day event featuring 17 international festivals, showcased Busan's strategic effort to enhance its global standing as a leisure and business tourism destination. Key events, including the Busan Performing Arts Market, Global Webtoon Festival, Fly Asia 2024 Startup Expo, and ASEAN-Korea Fashion Week, offered visitors a vibrant mix of culture, business, and entertainment.