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Sustainable living with nature

 

Eulsukdo Ecological Park is an oasis in the city. Citizens can enjoy walking, cycling, and relaxing in a beautiful natural setting.

　The Nakdonggang River, Korea's longest river, starts in the Taebaek Mountains in Gangwon-do Province. It winds over 500 kilometers down to Busan, where it empties into the Korea Strait.
　The estuary and delta formed by the Nakdonggang River is a sanctuary for various plants and animals in the region. It has also become a sanctuary for Busan citizens, who seek out the tranquil natural environment as an antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life.
　The area is home to several ecological parks; among them, the parks on Eulsukdo Island best represent the city's belief in "sustainable living with nature," a pillar of Busan's bid to host the World Expo 2030.

 

Trails line the park.

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Silvergrass shines in the fall sun.

■ Nature and recovery, from landfill to park
　Eulsukdo Island means "clear water, many birds," but that was not always the case. From 1993 to 1997, the site was a landfill. However, as citizens prioritized environmental protections in the early aughts, city officials began to protect the area and revitalize the ecosystem. Since then, Eulsukdo Island has transformed into a natural haven full of diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.
　Eulsukdo Island is divided into two sections: Ecological Park and Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park. The Ecological Park is a leisure destination for people who want to bathe in its natural beauty. It features picnic areas, sports fields, plenty of walking and cycling paths, and a lake.
　The natural setting is beautiful in every season; people enjoy the colorful flowers in spring, the fiery colors of fall foliage and plumes of silvergrass, the verdant greenery in the summer, and the majesty of bird migrations in winter.
　There are several ways to enjoy Eulsukdo. You can ride a bicycle, either your own or from a nearby rental station, and breathe in the fresh air. You can spend a relaxing afternoon sipping a coffee at one of the area's trendy cafes. You can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, Busan or the Eulsukdo Cultural Center and experience art and music so beautiful it is only rivaled by the natural settings just outside.

 

​Awe-inspiring beauty.

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　The other side of the island is the Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park, a protected land considered one of Asia's largest habitats for migratory birds. Visitors can only access this area via the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center, which features panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands. The best time to visit is during late fall and early winter, as you can watch flocks of birds resting before continuing their trips to warmer climes.

 

A bird is released into the wild.

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　The center also acts as a rehabilitation center for injured animals and offers education programs on wildlife and conservation.

Things to do:
1. Rent a bike and ride around the park.
2. Snap pictures of the lovely silvergrass
3. Explore the Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park on the buggy car departing from the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center

Please note: The Exhibition Hall at the Eco Center is currently under construction. The hall is expected to reopen in January 2024.

※Eulsukdo Eco Park and Eco Center
Address: 1240 Nakdongnam-ro, Saha-gu