Busan is good

News

• Busan swings for the fences with Sajik Stadium revamp source: Kookje NewspaperSajik Baseball Stadium, a beloved symbol of Busan’s baseball culture, will be transformed into a modern sports complex and is expected to reopen in 2031. On July 3, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety approved the renovation project, confirming its feasibility and putting the plan in motion.Since opening in 1985, the stadium has served as a gathering place where fans share their passion for baseball and create lasting memories while rooting for the beloved Lotte Giants. However, after 40 years, aging infrastructure has caused safety concerns for fans and players. With reconstruction now approved, Busan City aims to build a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly stadium that goes far beyond simple refurbishment.A design competition will be held next year, with construction scheduled to take place from 2028 to 2030. During this time, the Busan Asiad Main Stadium will be remodeled as a temporary home for local games, ensuring fans can continue to watch the Giants without interruption.The upgraded complex will feature amenities comparable to those found in Major League Baseball venues in the U.S., including real-time game data displays and augmented reality photo zones, which will allow fans to take digital photos with their favorite players.The Busan mayor expressed his hopes for the project, saying, “The new Sajik Baseball Stadium will be more than just a sports venue; it will serve as a key driver of the local economy and become a future asset of Busan where sports, culture and industry intersect.” He added, “We value communication with our citizens and will do our best to build a ‘sports paradise city’ where people choose to call home.”<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>transform: 변하다 feasibility: 타당성 reconstruction: 재건축 refurbishment: 재단장 interruption: 방해 comparable to: ~에 비할만한 intersect: 교차하다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Explore East Busan with the BTO Open air seating on a Busan City Tour Bus.　On May 28, the Busan Tourism Organization launched a new City Tour option called the East Busan Theme. This route lets visitors explore iconic attractions in the eastern part of the city, including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Imnang Beach. 　Each tour bus accommodates up to 40 passengers, with a minimum of 8 required for the tour to operate. The route runs once daily from Wednesday to Sunday. Departing from Busan Station at 10:10 a.m., the bus makes its way through a series of scenic spots before returning to the station at 6 p.m. Along the way, passengers can enjoy East Busan's charming waterside attractions, including Busan Harbor Bridge, Gwangalli Beach, Busan Cine Road, Mipo, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Daebyeon Port and Imnang Beach.　While this new route may seem like the return of the City Tour Bus's Blue Line, it offers a more focused and exclusive experience, operating only for passengers booked on the day. Please note that the itinerary may be subject to change due to unexpected on-site conditions. 　Ticket prices are 30,000 won for adults and 25,000 won for children under 13. Children under 48 months ride free of charge. For details and reservations,  visit the Busan City Tour website.Website : https://citytourbusan.com/en2/08theme/02.phpEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
• Starry Sea River Dinner Cruise sets sail Get an up close look at the Diamond Bridge. 　Looking for a magical way to spend a summer evening in Busan? The Starry Sea Busan River Dinner Cruise offers the perfect escape, blending scenic views, music and local flavors into one unforgettable night.　Running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through December, the cruise lets passengers enjoy a relaxing ride on the Suyeong River while taking in stunning views of the nighttime skyline.　There are three cruise options:●River Dinner Cruise: Departs at 6 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays, 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays●Sunset Dinner Cruise: Departs at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays, 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays●Moonlight Dinner Cruise: Departs at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays　Each cruise includes a light meal featuring delicacies from local bakeries and cafes. Passengers on Friday's Moonlight Cruise can also enjoy live music and fireworks.　Extra services onboard include luggage storage, Polaroid photo sessions, free photo printing and bicycle tours around nearby APEC Naru Park.　Tickets range from 35,000 to 55,000 won per adult, depending on the season and departure.　Check out the official Starry Night in Busan Instagram page (@starry_night_busan.kr) for bookings and the latest updates.※Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/starry_night_busan.krEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung

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Enjoy Busan

• What to do this weekend: North Port SUP Festa  Looking for a cool way to beat the heat in Busan? Head over to North Port Waterfront Park and make a splash at the North Port SUP FESTA, running now through Aug. 6. This waterfront celebration blends outdoor adventure with laid-back cultural vibes, perfect for a refreshing summer day by the sea.From stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking to hydrobikes and SUPMARAN, an electric boat made by linking two paddleboards, there’s no shortage of water activities. Families will love the kid-friendly swimming zones, open daily for safe, splashy fun.This weekend, the energy rises with a mix of cultural events, including a book festival, classical music performances, a flea market and a Saturday night screening of the hit movie “Begin Again.” It’s the perfect mix of chill and thrill.Want to paddle with your pup? There's a special SUP program just for pet lovers, so bring your furry friend along for a ride on the waves.The fun doesn’t stop on the water. On Saturday, Aug. 2, up to 50 people can join meditation sessions set to soft music and guided breathing. It’s a great way to recharge your body and mind. Additionally, be sure to visit the "Book Shade" pop-up store, a cozy reading space created in collaboration with Kyobo Bookstore.Pre-registration is required for most programs via Naver (link below); however, some on-site slots may be available, depending on space. Each activity has a separate sign-up process, so be sure to review the full schedule and details on the official website.※ North Port SUP Festa, until Aug. 6◎ Website: Click ◎ North Port Waterfront Park: 164 Yi Sun-shin-daero, Dong-gu◎ SUP Reservations: Click ◎ Kayaks, hydrobikes, SUPMARAN Reservations: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>furry: 복실복실한 meditation: 명상 recharge: 재충전하다 collaboation: 협업 seperate: 분리된Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Heal your body and mind at Beomeosa Temple source: visitbusanStep into a spiritual journey with “Templekking,” a fusion of temple tours and trekking that brings you closer to nature. Launched by Busan City and the Busan Tourism Organization, this immersive program offers a creative way to experience Korean cultural heritage by combining temple visits with trekking through surrounding mountains. From September to November, participants can join the program on a date of their choice and enjoy a meaningful experience at Beomeosa Temple, the third-largest temple in Korea.The program is designed as an active, mission-style adventure, offering three trekking routes tailored to different fitness levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. While trekking, participants are encouraged to complete a special mission: Capture nature sounds using directional microphones. Those recordings are later provided to each participant as a personal audio file, preserving their unique experience. The revitalizing trek is followed by a wholesome temple meal, featuring simple yet satisfying vegetarian dishes. All participants will also receive a small souvenir to commemorate their visit. To participate, pre-registration is required and will open on Aug. 1. Each session accommodates up to 40 participants. If fewer than 15 people register, a session may be canceled. Why not spend a peaceful autumn day at Beomeosa Temple, where you can tune into the sounds of nature and find inner calm through mindful movement?◎ Registration (available from Aug. 1): Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>heritage: 유산 combine: 합치다 meaningful: 의미있는 intermediate: 중급 revitalize: 새로운 활력을 주다 commemorate: 기념하다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Old-school vibes citywide on the Retro Night Tour source: visitbusanEmbracing the spirit of summer vacation, the Busan Tourism Organization has launched a special nighttime bus tour program titled “Retro Night Tour.” Running every Friday and Saturday from July 25 to Aug. 30, the tour captures Busan’s scenic nighttime views with a nostalgic twist.Based on the current nighttime route, this program offers a unique experience with retro-inspired décor and lively DJ performances reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s. Passengers can enjoy an immersive, multisensory journey that entertains both the eyes and ears.The route features some of Busan’s most iconic nighttime landmarks, including Busanhangdaegyo Bridge, Gwangandaegyo Bridge and Haeundae Beach. The open-top, double-decker bus offers an unobstructed view of the city lights. Onboard, a DJ keeps the energy high by sharing passengers’ stories and playing requested songs, further enhancing the festive vibe that pairs perfectly with the warm summer air.Retro-style lights and props create a nostalgic ambiance, transporting riders back to a bygone era. The tour includes two stops at Gwangalli and Songdo beaches, where passengers can enjoy a brief seaside stroll under the night sky. At Songdo Beach, a small event adds a touch of fun and encourages active engagement from participants. The bus departs from Busan Station at around 7 p.m. and returns at 10 p.m. Ticket prices are 25,000 won for adults and 15,000 won for children. Kids under 48 months ride free of charge. For details and reservations, visit the Busan City Tour website. Story submissions and song requests can be made in advance online or on-site on the day of the tour.※ Busan Retro Night Tour, every Friday and Saturday from July 25 to Aug. 30◎ Information: Click ◎ Reservation: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>embrace: 받아들이다 reminiscent: ~을 회상하는 immersive: 몰입형의 multisensory: 다중 감각의 entertain: 즐겁게하다 iconic: 상징적인 ambiance: 분위기 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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Food

• Bite Into Busan ② Puffer Fish and Eel  "Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. In this edition, we dive into the best dishes to eat to stay energized during Busan's hot and humid summer. A nutrient-rich meal can make all the difference when the heat wears you down. Rebuild your stamina with local favorites like "bokguk," or puffer fish soup, and savory grilled freshwater eel, foods known for their revitalizing power. 🐡 Kumsu Bokguk, Haeundae Main Branch  금수복국해운대본점For over half a century, Kumsu Bokguk in Haeundae-gu District has set the gold standard for puffer fish cuisine. As the flagship location of a renowned chain with outposts nationwide, this legendary eatery has built its reputation on tradition, quality and safety. ○Address: 23 Jungdong 1-ro 43beon-gil, Haeundae-gu○Hours: Open 24 hours every day.○Menu: Eunbokguk (silver puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦15,000/￦16,000.　Milbokguk (green puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth 　￦20,000/￦21,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.🍱 Tokyo Babsang 동경밥상At Tokyo Babsang, Chef-owner Tae-woo Kim brings a refined vision of Japanese grilled eel to the shores of Gwangalli Beach. After years of training at Jubako, an esteemed Tokyo restaurant founded in 1790, Kim returned to Korea to open this intimate eatery dedicated to the art of eel. His dedication shows in every bite, from the meticulous charcoal grilling to the silky glaze of sweet soy sauce.The restaurant's signature dishes, "unaju" and "hitsumabushi," showcase regional eel traditions from Tokyo and Nagoya. Whether you choose unaju, with whole fillets served over rice, or hitsumabushi, which is enjoyed in multiple stages with different toppings and broth, each dish offers a harmonious balance of textures - crispy on the outside, tender and juicy within.○Address: 34-6 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu○Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. ○Menu: Unaju ￦43,000. Hitsumabushi ￦38,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus🐟 Shunsai Kubo 슌사이쿠보　　 　Shunsai Kubo is a popular destination for hitsumabushi, the beloved Nagoya-style grilled eel rice bowl. Japan-trained Chef Jae-wook Lee carefully grills each piece of fish over charcoal while brushing them with a house-made sauce that enhances eel's natural richness. The restaurant is also popular with families as it offers a dedicated children's menu.○Address: 17 Yangdal-ro 4beon-gil, Buk-gu○Hours: Open from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 40 minutes before closing. Closed on Mondays.○Menu: Hitsumabushi ￦39,000, Salmon rice bowl ￦17,500○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>nutrient-rich: 영양소가 풍부한 puffer fish: 복어 eel: 장어 revitalize: 재활성화하다 flagship: 본점 reputation: 명성 intimate: 친숙한 crispy: 바삭바삭한 tender: 부드러운 enhance: 강화하다 richness: 풍부함Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• The Michelin Guide to surviving Busan's hot and humid summer 　"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. 　In this edition, we dive into the best dishes to eat to stay energized during Busan's hot and humid summer. A nutrient-rich meal can make all the difference when the heat wears you down. Rebuild your stamina with local favorites like "bokguk," or puffer fish soup, and savory grilled freshwater eel, foods known for their revitalizing power. Bokguk makes for a light and refreshing summer meal.Kumsu Bokguk's steamed puffer fish has a subtle, slightly sweet flavor with a firm yet tender texture.  ■Kumsu Bokguk, Haeundae Main Branch 금수복국해운대본점　For over half a century, Kumsu Bokguk in Haeundae-gu District has set the gold standard for puffer fish cuisine. As the flagship location of a renowned chain with outposts nationwide, this legendary eatery has built its reputation on tradition, quality and safety. ○Address: 23 Jungdong 1-ro 43beon-gil, Haeundae-gu○Hours: Open 24 hours every day.○Menu: Eunbokguk (silver puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦15,000/￦16,000.　        Milbokguk (green puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦20,000/￦21,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.The luxurious unaju bento box at Tokyo Babsang. ■Tokyo Babsang 동경밥상　At Tokyo Babsang, Chef-owner Tae-woo Kim brings a refined vision of Japanese grilled eel to the shores of Gwangalli Beach. After years of training at Jubako, an esteemed Tokyo restaurant founded in 1790, Kim returned to Korea to open this intimate eatery dedicated to the art of eel. His dedication shows in every bite, from the meticulous charcoal grilling to the silky glaze of sweet soy sauce.　The restaurant's signature dishes, "unaju" and "hitsumabushi," showcase regional eel traditions from Tokyo and Nagoya. Whether you choose unaju, with whole fillets served over rice, or hitsumabushi, which is enjoyed in multiple stages with different toppings and broth, each dish offers a harmonious balance of textures - crispy on the outside, tender and juicy within.○Address: 34-6 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu○Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. ○Menu: Unaju ￦43,000. Hitsumabushi ￦38,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menusThe hitsumabushi at Shunsai Kubo comes with various toppings and a savory broth.  ■Shunsai Kubo 슌사이쿠보　　　　　　Shunsai Kubo is a popular destination for hitsumabushi, the beloved Nagoya-style grilled eel rice bowl. Japan-trained Chef Jae-wook Lee carefully grills each piece of fish over charcoal while brushing them with a house-made sauce that enhances eel's natural richness. 　The restaurant is also popular with families as it offers a dedicated children's menu.○Address: 17 Yangdal-ro 4beon-gil, Buk-gu○Hours: Open from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 40 minutes before closing. Closed on Mondays.○Menu: Hitsumabushi ￦39,000, Salmon rice bowl ￦17,500○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menusEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
• Seafood and smoke: Japanese fine dining finds a home in Busan 　"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Mori. (Instagram : Click) ■Kaiseki at Mori　Kaiseki is Japan's haute cuisine, a multicourse celebration of seasonal ingredients. Mori, one of Busan's standout kaiseki spots, is a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates local seafood and produce. With experience gained from training in Japan, Chef Wan-gyu Kim's menu is a masterclass in balance and taste.＊Address: 2F #2-4, Pale De Cz, 24 298beon-gil, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu＊Hours: 7 to 11 p.m., closed on Mondays.＊Price: Kaiseki course ￦210,000 per personA dish from the omakase menu at Zero Base.　(Catch Table : Click)■Omakase at Zero Base　Omakase, meaning "I'll leave it up to you," invites diners to entrust their meals to the chef, who creates a personalized experience based on available ingredients.　At Zero Base, diners are in the expert hands of Chef Byeong-chan Yu. Chef Yu's refined techniques and creativity turn local seafood into dishes with a certain "je ne sais quoi" that will have you thinking of them long after your last bite.＊Address: 202, 17 Millak-ro 33beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., closed on Sundays. ＊Price: Omakase ￦150,000 per personSpanish mackerel with pesto from Eutteum Iroribata.　(Instagram : Click) ■Iroribata at Eutteum Iroribata　Iroribata is the art of open-fire grilling over a sunken hearth, which imbues fish, meat and vegetables with mouth-watering, smoky flavor. Chef Eutteum Jung shows off his mastery of this cooking style at his cozy restaurant in Namcheon-dong.　The restaurant bears the imprint of Chef Jung's passion; dark stains on the walls reflect the years spent managing smoke and fire to perfect every dish. His signature dish is a grilled seaperch, a type of fatty white fish prized for its rich, buttery flavor. The row of whole fish roasting in front of the hearth makes an indelible image.＊Address: 1F, 20 Suyeong-ro 408beong-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open Monday to Thursday, 7 to 10 p.m.; Open at 5:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month.＊Price: Omakase ￦100,000 per personVarious skewers at Yakitori Haegong.  (Instagram : Click) ■Yakitori at Yakitori Haegong　There are distinct pleasures one experiences when eating yakitori. The first is visual; watching the chef, fan in hand, labor over glowing embers of charcoal, moving and rotating skewers like a conductor leading an orchestra. The second is gustatory; perfectly cooked meat and vegetables, seasoned with smoke, salt and tare, a sweetned soy sauce.　At Yakitori Haegong, the conductor is Chef Seunghyun Kim. Under his deft hands, all parts of a chicken sing; tender thigh meat, crispy wings, chewy hearts and the crunch of neck cartilage form a symphony of textures and flavors that merits an encore.＊Address: 1F, 30-5 Millakbondong-ro 19beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Closed on Sundays.＊Price: Omakase ￦59,000 per person　※ Note that restaurant information may be subject to change.

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Life

• Can’t read the menu? There’s an app for that source: getty imageEager to try local dining but worried about the language barrier? Just look for the “Busan Allang” sticker and savor a world of flavors with ease.Busan Allang is part of the city’s efforts to make Busan a more inclusive and accessible place for international residents and visitors. The program provides AI-powered, digital restaurant menus translated into seven languages: English, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Arabic and Russian. Professional translators meticulously review every detail for accuracy, allowing diners to order with confidence.Restaurants displaying the Busan Allang sticker are easily identifiable. Inside, a quick scan of a QR code displayed at a table will provide a full menu in the target language. Diners do not need to download any additional apps. Visitors can also browse participating eateries in advance through the official Busan Allang website.The website also provides a handy translation guide for everyday Korean food items and frequently used expressions and questions when dining out.The platform helps restaurants better serve international guests. The service is free, with no fixed application period, so restaurants can join at any time. For more information, visit the official Busan Allang website.◎ Busan Allang: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>eager: 간절히 바라는 barrier: 장벽 inclusive: 폭넓은 accessible: 접근할 수 있는 accuracy: 정확성 identifiable: 알아볼 수 있는 frequently: 자주Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• New contest spotlights Busan’s transformation  Busan Metropolitan City is inviting creative content makers to enter its 2025 YouTube Video Competition, “Find Neul·Noh·Pul Busan!” Submissions are open through Oct. 17.The contest aims to showcase Busan’s recent transformations and future vision through short-form video. Entrants may choose from three suggested themes: Expanded (늘리고), Elevated (높이고), and Resolved (풀었다), each reflecting a key aspect of the city’s development.“Expanded” focuses on Busan’s growing international profile, including rising tourist numbers and foreign investment. “Elevated” highlights improved performance in global rankings such as the Smart Centres Index. “Resolved” refers to long-delayed projects now moving forward, including new bridges across the Nakdonggang River and the planned reconstruction of Sajik Baseball Stadium.The competition is open to individuals and teams, including international residents officially registered in Korea. To enter, participants must download the application form from tv.busan.go.kr, upload their video to YouTube using the designated hashtags and submit the form online. Submissions are due by 6 p.m. on Oct. 17.Eight winners will receive cash prizes. Four exceptional videos will also earn the Busan Mayor’s Award. Results will be announced in November on the Busan Video Archive website and the city’s official YouTube channel.◎ Application form: tv.busan.go.kr<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>submission: 제출 aim to: ~를 목표로 하다 transformation: 변화 reconstruction: 재건축 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Two nights, two masters at Busan Concert Hall source: gettyimageThis August, the Busan Concert Hall invites classical music lovers to indulge in “A Midsummer Piano Feast,” a two-part recital series that highlights the rare musical connection between mentor and protégé.Pianist Saehyun Kim, fresh off his victory at the 2025 Long-Thibaud Competition, will grace the stage. On the eve of his 18th birthday this past March, Kim won the First Grand Prize, the Audience Prize and the Press Jury Prize at the prestigious Paris-based competition.On Aug. 5 at 7:30 p.m., the teenage prodigy will grace the BCH stage with his immeasurable talent. Praised for his dynamic and emotional performances, Kim promises to captivate audiences with renditions of the works of Mozart, Faure and Chopin.Then, on Aug. 7 at 7:30 p.m., Kim’s mentor and internationally acclaimed pianist HaeSun Paik will return to Busan with a deeply personal recital. Titled “Homage to My Homeland,” her performance celebrates the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation.Paik, a revered figure in global piano circles and a longtime faculty member at the New England Conservatory in Boston, will present Beethoven’s “Les Aieux,” Juri Seo’s “La Primavera,” and selections from Bartok and Schumann.Tickets can be purchased through the official BCH website until three hours before each performance. ※ Piano Recitals at Busan Concert Hall, Aug. 5 and 7◎ Busan Concert Hall: 250 Dongpyeong-ro, Busanjin-gu◎ Tickets:- Pianist Saehyun Kim: Click - Pianist Haesun Paik: Click ◎ Inquiries: 051-640-8822<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>indulge: 탐닉하다 recital: 리사이틀(발표회) protégé: 후배, 제자 grace: ~을 빛내다 immeasurable: 헤아릴 수 없는 captivate: 마음을 사로잡다 rendition: 연주 revered: 존경받는 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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• Life inside a painting 　Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources and cultural offerings.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that life should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO invites visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Golden light pours into the sea at Dadaepo Beach, turning sunsets and sunrises into breathtaking natural masterpieces. Saha-Gu District Office■ YOLO Route 7　Every sunset paints a picture, but summer sunsets stir something deeper. The sun lingers, reluctant to hand the sky over to the moon. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors － an Impressionist masterpiece in motion. 　Summer is nature's showiest season, saturating the world in color and overwhelming the senses with dazzling skies. There is science behind this beauty; the warm, moisture-rich air scatters sunlight more dramatically, producing deeper, more vibrant hues.　One of the best places to witness this evening spectacle is along YOLO Galmaetgil Route 7, on the western edge of Busan. The trail's riverside setting offers uninterrupted views of the sun sinking into the Nakdonggang River. Reflections shimmer on the water as the sky above shifts through a kaleidoscope of colors, making the entire walk feel like a living painting.　The 7-kilometer path is smooth and well-maintained, with restrooms and rest stops along the way. It takes about an hour and 40 minutes to complete. The trail is ideal for a sunset stroll or a breezy bike ride. Highlights include Jangnim Port, where brightly painted buildings evoke the canals of Venice, earning it the nickname "Bunezia," a playful mash-up of "Busan" and "Venezia."　Before reaching Dadaepo Beach, follow a short uphill path to Amisan Observatory. From this vantage point, the river, sea and sandbanks stretch out in a breathtaking panorama.　Affectionately known as the "Sunset Picnic," YOLO Galmaetgil Route 7 captures the magic of summer in Busan. It's a reminder that the city offers more than vibrant markets and ocean views － it's also a place where the sky puts on a show.A Venice-like harborfront right here in Busan.The riverside path leading to Goninaru Rest Area.The incredible view from Amisan Observatory.YOLO Guide : https://www.busan.go.kr/galmaetgil_eng/trip0207Editor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
• Yeongdo: Shipyards and street art 　Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources and cultural offerings, featuring scenic beachside walks and gentle mountain climbs.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Vessels entering and departing Busan Port add to Yeongdo's unique vibe.  　Yeongdo Island is fast becoming a must-visit for travelers exploring Busan. Located at the southern edge of the city, this scenic district is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The best way to take it all in? Follow YOLO Galmaetgil Route 6.The weekly lifting of Yeongdodaegyo Bridge never gets old. 　This 10.9-kilometer trail begins at Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Korea's first drawbridge, built in 1934. Every Saturday at 2 p.m., the bridge lifts in a much-loved ritual that draws crowds.　Crossing into Yeongdo, visitors will reach Kangkangee Arts Village, a ship-repair hub turned cultural enclave. The name comes from the "kang-kang" sound of hammers striking metal resonating from the repair docks. Today, murals and art installations mingle with gritty shipyards, giving the area a distinct industrial charm.The Jeoryeong Coastal Walk leads to Taejongdae, another beloved area on Busan's southern coast. 　Continuing south leads to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Once a shantytown, it's now a vibrant community of cafes, galleries and indie bookstores in refurbished homes. The area's colorful buildings, picturesque alleys and ocean vistas are popular shooting locations for K-dramas and films.The observatory at 75 Square is a great place to catch your breath and enjoy the view.　Further along, 75 Square offers a quiet perch with panoramic views. Take the winding path to Jungri Beach to taste fresh seafood caught by "haenyeo," Korea's traditional women divers.　Moving east, stop by the Dongsam-dong Shell Midden Museum, then explore the National Maritime Museum. Finish the hike at Amir Park among the colorful hydrangeas in full bloom.YOLO Guide : Click
• Walking to the end of the world Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources, featuring long walks along beaches and gentle climbs up mountain slopes. 　The routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil are especially popular. These routes let hikers experience quaint villages, historical sites and more.　YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. 　Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.■ YOLO Route 5　Busan is where the mountains meet the sea, but few places show off that beauty like YOLO Galmaetgil Route 5. This stunning 4.5-kilometer trail, also known as the Igidae Coastal Walkway, winds along rocky cliffs and offers uninterrupted views of the ocean.　Starting from Oryukdo Ferry Dock and ending at Dongsaengmal Trail, the path is carved into ancient volcanic rock, formed by lava over 80 million years ago. It's rugged, narrow and often steep - so leave the sandals at home and lace up those hiking boots.　Before you hit the trail, explore nearby attractions like the Oryukdo Skywalk, where glass flooring creates the illusion of walking on water. Oryukdo Sunrise Park is just uphill, offering fresh breezes and gorgeous views to get you in the hiking mood.　The trail itself is full of drama: Jagged cliffs, sea-sculpted rock formations and glimpses of wildlife. The most prominent rock formations are Nongbawi, named for its resemblance to a stack of Korean chest drawers known as "nong," and Chimabawi, so named because of its similarity to the elegant lines of a Hanbok skirt, or "chima."　Midway, you'll reach Eoul Madang, a scenic rest stop with views of Gwangandaegyo Bridge and Haeundae. From there, the path flattens out and leads to Igidae Gureumdari Bridge, "Cloud Bridge," a gently swaying footbridge that feels like floating in the sky.　Finish at Dongsaengmal Observatory, where modern skyscrapers and wild nature meet. Grab a seat, catch your breath and enjoy the view.  One of the rewards of hiking YOLO Route 5 is the ocean vista from Oryukdo Sunrise Park.Igidae's famous Nongbawi rocks, resembling a stack of dressers.Natural stairs made out of volcanic rock.YOLO Route 5 is the best way to enjoy Busan's ocean views.A photozone at Dongsaengmal Observatory.YOLO Guide : Click 

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