Busan is good

News

• Busan rises, ranks 23rd on Global Financial Centres Index  The city recently completed Phase 3 of the Busan International Finance Center, a mixed-use complex in Munhyeon-dong, Nam-gu District. It houses over 170 businesses and organizations. 　Busan Metropolitan City ranks 23rd in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, marking its highest position to date and reflecting the city's solid foundation and financial competitiveness on the world stage. 　The GFCI, a collaboration between London-based consultancy Z/Yen and the China Development Institute, is a prominent ranking of 120 major financial centres worldwide. Published biannually in March and September, the GFCI serves as a key resource for policy and investment decision makers. 　Busan's 23rd-place ranking continues its upward ascent since it debuted at 46th place in 2018. When broken down by region, Busan ranks 8th in Asia/Pacific, just behind Beijing, but ahead of cities like Sydney, Osaka and Guangzhou.　According to the report, Busan "benefits from cutting-edge digital infrastructure and reliable utilities, [which creates] an environment that strongly supports financial services and global business operations."　A key driver of Busan's steady ascent up the GFCI rankings has been the city's expansion of financial infrastructure. The city recently completed Phase 3 of the Busan International Finance Center, a mixed-use complex in Munhyeon-dong, Nam-gu District. The new 45-story skyscraper houses over 170 businesses and organizations.　Other contributing factors include continued expansion of policy funds for corporate growth and industrial innovation, such as the Busan Future Growth Venture Fund, the Busan Innovation Scale-up Venture Fund and the Busan Future Industry Transition Fund; and the concentration of major institutions in Busan, including the global shipping broker Clarkson and the marine finance-specialized asset management firm Waterline, which have strengthened core infrastructure and financial market foundations.　Z/Yen also evaluates cities' financial technology offerings. Busan ranks 16th out of 116 cities on the FinTech index, climbing six spots since last year. The rise reflects Busan's potential as a tech-driven finance leader. Much of this success stems from securing new growth engines in digital finance, such as attracting Korea's first dedicated trading platform for fractional investment distribution, KDX Consortium, and leveraging Busan's status as the nation's only blockchain regulation-free zone.　A Busan City official stated, "With Busan's core strengths centered on maritime and digital finance, Busan will continue to implement distinctive, innovative strategies for even greater growth. Aiming to break into the global top 20 and Asia's top 5 by 2030, Busan is committed to solidifying its reputation as a premier international financial and commercial hub."
• Busan and Agoda partnership benefits digital nomads  Busan City and online travel platform Agoda have teamed up to promote the city as a “workation” destination for remote workers and digital nomads. The partnership aims to draw international visitors who want to keep working while taking in everything Busan has to offer.The campaign goes live on Agoda’s platform on May 6. A dedicated Busan Workation page and social media campaigns will highlight workation opportunities in the city.International remote workers and digital nomads can participate by registering on busaness.com, the official Busan Workation website. Verification requires a passport and proof of employment. Once complete, users will receive an exclusive Agoda promo code for discounts.◎ Busan Workation: Click ◎ Agoda: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>promote: 홍보하다 remote: 원격 verification: 확인 employment: 근로Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• Influencers tasked with city promotion  　The 2026 Busan Media Members officially launched on March 28 with an energetic inauguration ceremony. As citizen reporters, these members deliver local news and information via social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram. Their engaging and informative content will cover a wide range of topics, from culture and tourism to city policies.　This year, the program boasts its largest roster to date. The multicultural group comprises 150 citizen reporters, including 30 members from countries such as England, Scotland, Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkiye, India and Japan. Additionally, the team features talented, media-savvy reporters with impressive backgrounds - including a popular travel influencer with over 20,000 followers and an award-winning short-form content creator.　Through the end of the year, members will utilize various digital platforms and social media channels to report on Busan's policies, events, culture and tourism. Their work will be shared on their personal accounts and widely promoted via Busan City's official social media channels.

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Enjoy Busan

• AKMU, Haechan and EVAN headline 2026 BOF with NOL  The Busan One Asia Festival with NOL returns in June! Now in its 10th year, BOF has grown into one of the city's premier cultural events.This year’s edition features a star-studded lineup for its Big Concert, scheduled for June 27 and 28 at Busan Asiad Main Stadium. Tickets will go on sale starting at 8 p.m. on May 12 via NOL Ticket and NOL World. On June 27, AKMU takes the stage with their emotionally resonant songwriting and signature sound. On the same day, NCT's Haechan will amplify the festive energy with his compelling vocals and refined choreography. On June 28, EVAN will grace the stage. Formerly known as Heeseung, the former ENHYPHEN member will perform as a solo artist, marking a new chapter in his career.This year, BOF will offer more than music as it tries to establish itself as the next great K-content platform. The area around the stadium will feature exhibition zones and pop-up stores tied to K-pop, food, beauty, games and webtoons.In addition to the Big Concert, BOF will hold the free Park Concert on Saturday, June 20, at Hwamyeong Ecological Park. Urban Zakapa and Lee Mujin headline this family-friendly, picnic-style event.Finally, the BIG Talk conference on June 9 is a must-visit for anyone interested in the K-culture industry. Held at the Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center, the conference brings together speakers from SM C&C, NOL Universe, The Founders, ESteem, and Delivered Korea to explore how K-pop fandom connects to Busan's local content scene.※ 2026 Busan One Asia Festival ◎ Website: Click ◎ Buy Tickets for Big Concert: Click ◎ Instagram: @bof_official_kr, @bof.en, @bof.tw, @bof.jp◎ Facebook: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>resonant: 깊이 울리는 amplify: 증폭시키다 compelling: 강렬한 tied to: ~와 관련있는Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   
• What to do in May ① source: Busan Ilbo🏮 Busan Lotus Lantern Festival 부산연등회Date: May 1 to 17Location: Song Sanghyeon Square, Busan Citizens ParkIn celebration of Buddha's birthday on May 24, various lotus lanterns will color Song Sanghyeon Square with an enchanting display. Wishing for good fortune, citizens can enjoy a delightful stroll among delicate lights featuring unique designs that capture the eye. On May 16, a street parade will take place at Busan Citizens Park, inviting people to hold lanterns and march together. source: Busan Ilbo☕ Global Yeong-do Coffee Festival 영도 커피페스티벌Date: May 15 to 17Location: Amir ParkThis vibrant festival has returned to brew Yeong-do into a hot spot! As the region rises as a home to numerous charming cafes, the event offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy unique coffees from around the world and experience themed activities such as roasting beans and making pour over coffee. source: Haeundae-gu District Office🌊 Haeundae Sand Festival 해운대모래축제Date: May 15 to 18Location: Haeundae BeachWitness the magical transformation of sand at Haeundae Beach! Eleven professional sculptors from Korea, China and France will turn ordinary sand into massive, meticulous art pieces under the theme of "Time Travel in Busan." While the festival runs for three days, the majestic sand sculptures will remain on display until June 14 for all to enjoy. <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>stroll: 산책 region: 지역 numerous: 수많은 sculptor: 조각가 massive: 거대한 sculpture: 조각Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy  
• Busan is preparing for BTS' return  　In March, K-pop supergroup BTS returned after a nearly four-year hiatus, thrilling fans with their long-awaited tenth studio album, "Arirang."　The group is currently on the BTS WORLD TOUR `ARIRANG', which covers 85 dates in 34 cities across North America, Europe and Asia. The tour opened on April 9 at Goyang Stadium in Gyeonggi-do Province, where BTS performed in front of nearly 132,000 fans over three days. They then left for concerts in Tokyo and the United States. 　The tour will return to Korea on June 12 and 13 with BTS WORLD TOUR `ARIRANG' IN BUSAN. Performances will be at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, the same venue where BTS held their final concert before fulfilling their military obligations. This return is significant: Busan is the hometown of members Jungkook and Jimin, and June 13 marks the group's 13th debut anniversary. 　Global interest is already skyrocketing. According to Hotels.com, searches for accommodations in Busan surged by 3,855% domestically and 2,375% internationally within a week of the tour announcement on Jan. 14. 　Ahead of the concerts, many fans are coming to Busan to see the neighborhoods Jungkook and Jimin spent time in as children. Fans are flocking to iconic spots associated with them, including Gamcheon Culture Village, Mandeok Lego Village and Seodong Miro Market. 　Busan is busy preparing a world-class welcome. The BTS concert will serve as a significant opportunity to showcase Busan's appeal and strengthen its position as a global tourism hub by building international trust. To ensure visitors have a good time, the city is implementing several strategic initiatives. 　Welcome centers will operate at major hubs  and landmarks will be illuminated to greet international guests. From dazzling drone shows at Gwangalli Beach to romantic Candlelight concerts, Busan's nighttime attractions will prove there is plenty to do at any time of day. For foodies, Busan offers "Gourmet Selections," collaborations between Michelin-listed restaurants and beloved local eateries to showcase the city돴s excellent culinary scene. Visitors can also spend time at vibrant markets at the North Port's Port Village and the Starry Sea Busan Night Market.　To ensure a seamless transportation and accommodation experience, Busan is bolstering its support infrastructure. Information services at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, Busan Station and Gimhae International Airport will be enhanced, and subway services will be expanded to facilitate safe and efficient travel. The city will also conduct intensive inspections into unfair practices, such as price gouging or the unjust cancellation of existing reservations. 　Institutions such as the Geumnyeonsan and Gudeok youth training centers, as well as the temple stay program at Naewonjeongsa Temple, will be used to accommodate approximately 400 international tourists. Adding these accommodation options makes it easier for visitors to secure lodging.　Additionally, Arpina, the youth hostel in Haeundae-gu District operated by the Busan City Corporation, will maintain its standard rates. Furthermore, the city is pursuing incentive programs for general lodging businesses to encourage price stability and service improvements. Busan is committed to meeting － and exceeding － global standards across hospitality, dining, entertainment, transportation, and safety.

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Food

• A new star joins the show 　Busan is now home to four Michelin-starred restaurants, marking a new era for local gastronomy. Le DORER, a contemporary Korean fine-dining establishment, recently earned one star in the 2026 Michelin Guide Seoul and Busan, released on March 5. The restaurant joins one-starred restaurants Mori, Palate and Fiotto atop the dining landscape.　Furthermore, Busan welcomed a diverse array of eateries officially selected for the Michelin Guide. The latest restaurants to join the prestigious list are introduced below. ■ Le DORER 르도헤 (Michelin One Star)　A young yet remarkably accomplished head chef showcases an astonishing interpretation of Korean cuisine through sophisticated techniques. This chef from Busan offers a delightful exploration of the region's seasonal ingredients, filtered through a modern perspective. While starting its journey as a Korean restaurant, Le DORER has evolved to redefine the genre's essence with contemporary flair. Infused with French and Japanese techniques, each course offers an expansive, exciting experience, presenting familiar ingredients with bold and unexpected twists. *Address: 2F, 37 Marine city 3-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 12-2:30 p.m. / Dinner 5-10 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.*Menu: Lunch Course 120,000 won / Dinner Course 210,000 won ■ Moemiljip 뫼밀집 (　 Bib Gourmand)　Its signature noodles, made in-house entirely from Korean buckwheat, instantly awaken your senses to what authentic texture and taste truly feel like. The unique chewiness, combined with buckwheat's deep, earthy flavor, is remarkably distinctive. These noodles pair perfectly with Moemiljip's slices of boiled pork - bouncy, collagen-rich and deeply satisfying.*Address: 2F, Orange Plaza, 23 Marine City 3-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Dinner 5-8:30 p.m. (Last orders 3, 8 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.*Menu: Buckwheat Noodles with Perilla Oil 17,000 won. ■ Jin Dweji Gomtang 진돼지곰탕 　Established in 2024, this eatery went viral almost immediately, drawing a younger crowd with its clear, savory pork broth. Dishes are made with Berkshire K black pigs from Jirisan; the prized breed is renowned for producing high-quality, heavily marbled and tender meat.　Although Busan is traditionally known for Dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice), Jin Dweji Gomtang carves out its own lane with a different approach to similar ingredients: The broth is made with meat rather than bones, resulting in a clean, light soup that keeps diners craving another spoonful.　The restaurant's main location is near Gwangalli Beach, and another branch recently opened near Busan Station.*Address: 2F, 4 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Last order 8:40 p.m.)*Menu: Dweji Gomtang 13,000 won  ■ Unaju 우나쥬　Following the original recipes of Shirakawa, a grilled-eel-specialist restaurant in Nagoya founded in 1948, Unaju's grilled eel is nothing short of artistry. With meticulous technique and patience, each fresh eel is double-grilled to perfection, yielding a crispy exterior that gives way to a delightfully springy, succulent interior.*Address: 39 Cheongsapo-ro 67beon-gil, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner 5-10 p.m. (Last order 8:30 p.m.)*Signature: Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel) 39,000 won ■ Iwa 이와　Holding a patent for its specialized fish-ageing technique, Iwa's chef is a true master of the unique characteristics and conditions of every catch. By bringing out the absolute best qualities in each fish, the chef presents meticulously aged sashimi that reveals a next-level texture and profound depth of flavor. At Iwa, guests can indulge in exquisite omakase courses at remarkably reasonable prices. *Address: 2F, 13 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 209 beon-gil, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open from 12 to 10 p.m. Closed on Sundays.*Menu: Omakase (Prices may vary) ■ Pyeongsanok 평산옥　Pyeongsanok, a local institution operated by the same family over four generations, specializes in "suyuk," tender slices of boiled pork, and noodles. The restaurant has been serving guests for over a century, proving that simple food done well is always in demand.*Address: 26, Choryangjung-ro, Dong-gu*Hours: Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Sundays.*Menu: Suyuk 10,000 won
• A new star joins the show  Busan’s gourmet scene is blooming like a meticulously curated garden. The city is now home to four Michelin-starred restaurants, marking a new era for local gastronomy. Le DORER, a contemporary Korean fine-dining establishment, recently earned one star in the 2026 Michelin Guide Seoul and Busan, released on March 5. The restaurant joins Mori, Palate and Fiotto – all boasting one star – atop Busan’s dining landscape.Furthermore, Busan welcomed a diverse array of eateries officially selected for the Michelin Guide. The list features Jin Dweji Gomtang, renowned for its deep, savory pork broth, and Moemiljip, which showcases the unique texture of 100% Korean buckwheat noodles. Other notable entries include Pyeongsanok, boasting a century of heritage with its signature slices of boiled pork; Unaju, famous for its grilled eel served over rice; and Iwa, acclaimed for its distinctive fish-ageing techniques. source: Michelin Guide⭐ Le DORER 르도헤 (Michelin One Star)A young yet remarkably accomplished head chef showcases an astonishing interpretation of Korean cuisine through sophisticated techniques. This chef from Busan offers a delightful exploration of the region’s seasonal ingredients, filtered through a modern perspective. While starting its journey as a Korean restaurant, Le DORER has evolved to redefine the genre’s essence with contemporary flair. Infused with French and Japanese techniques, each course offers an expansive, exciting experience, presenting familiar ingredients with bold and unexpected twists. Address: 2F, 37 Marine city 3-ro, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 12-2:30 p.m. / Dinner 5-10 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.Menu: Lunch Course 120,000 won / Dinner Course 210,000 wonsource: Michelin Guide🍜 Moemiljip 뫼밀집 (Bib Gourmand)Its signature noodles, made in-house entirely from Korean buckwheat, instantly awaken your senses to what authentic texture and taste truly feel like. The unique chewiness, combined with buckwheat’s deep, earthy flavor, is remarkably distinctive. These noodles pair perfectly with Moemiljip’s slices of boiled pork—bouncy, collagen-rich and deeply satisfying.Address: 2F, Orange Plaza, 23 Marine City 3-ro, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Dinner 5-8:30 p.m. (Last orders 3, 8 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.Menu: Buckwheat Noodles with Perilla Oil 17,000 won.source: Michelin Guide🥣 Jin Dweji Gomtang 진돼지곰탕 Established in 2024, this eatery went viral almost immediately, drawing a younger crowd with its clear, savory pork broth. Dishes are made with Berkshire K black pigs from Jirisan; the prized breed is renowned for producing high-quality, heavily marbled and tender meat.Although Busan is traditionally known for Dwaeji-gukbap (Pork soup with rice), Jin Dweji Gomtang carves out its own lane with a different approach to similar ingredients: The broth is built around meat rather than bones, resulting in a clean, light soup that keeps diners craving another spoonful.The restaurant’s main location is near Gwangalli Beach, and another branch recently opened near Busan Station.Address: 2F, 4 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 284 beon-gil, Suyeong-guNaver Map (Suyeong): Click Naver Map (Busan Station): Click Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Last order 8:40 p.m.)Menu: Dweji Gomtang 13,000 won source: Michelin Guide🍱 Unaju 우나쥬Following the original recipes of Shirakawa, a grilled-eel-specialist restaurant in Nagoya founded in 1948, Unaju’s grilled eel is nothing short of artistry. With meticulous technique and patience, each fresh eel is double-grilled to perfection, yielding a crispy exterior that gives way to a delightfully springy, succulent interior.Address: 39 Cheongsapo-ro 67beon-gil, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner 5-10 p.m. (Last order 8:30 p.m.)Signature: Hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel) 39,000 wonsource: Michelin Guide🦐 Iwa 이와Holding a patent for its specialized fish-ageing technique, Iwa’s chef is a true master of the unique characteristics and conditions of every catch. By bringing out the absolute best qualities in each fish, the chef presents meticulously aged sashimi that reveals a next-level texture and profound depth of flavor. At Iwa, guests can indulge in exquisite omakase-style courses at remarkably reasonable prices.  Address: 2F, 13 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 209 beon-gil, Haeundae-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Open from 12 to 10 p.m. Closed on Sundays.Menu: Omakase (Prices may vary)source: Busan City's official Naver Blog🥩 Pyeongsanok 평산옥Pyeongsanok, a local institution operated by the same family over four generations, specializes in “suyuk,” tender slices of boiled pork, and noodles. The restaurant has been serving guests for over a century, proving that simple food done well is always in demand. Address: 26, Choryangjung-ro, Dong-guNaver Map: Click Hours: Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Sundays.Menu: Suyuk 10,000 won※Restaurant information may be subject to change.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>astonishing: 놀라운 perspective: 관점 twists: 반전 buckwheat: 메밀 chewiness: 씹히는 맛 broth: 육수 branch: 지점 exquisite: 정교한 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy 
• The street foods that define Busan winters source: getty imageIn any neighborhood and at any hour, people will stand around vinyl tents, warmed by steam emanating from cooktops. These food stalls, ubiquitous nationwide, specialize in Korean snacks and beckon peckish passersby with promises of soul-warming meals. Through that magic combination of flavor and nostalgia, these comfort foods have the power to cure whatever ails you.Broken heart? Tteokbokki. Job-related stress? Gimbap.　Existential crisis? Ramyeon.When what ails you is the weather, specifically biting winds and freezing temperatures, healing comes in two forms: "Eomuk," fish cakes, or "multteok," rice cakes in broth. These cold-weather staples warm the body and the mind.🍥 MultteokEomuk's longtime partner is multteok, long, chewy rice cakes skewered and gently soaked in the same fish cake broth. The result is a tender, springy and subtly savory snack. Common at Busan snack stalls since at least the 1960s, multteok is rarely found outside the region.Sometimes used as a base for tteokbokki, multteok adds an extra layer of depth to the familiar sweet-spicy dish. For the most authentic experience, head to traditional markets in Jagalchi or Bujeon, where eomuk and multteok attract long lines at bustling street stalls.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>neighborhood: 지역 tender: 부드러운 springy: 탄력 있는 authentic: 정통의Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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Life

• Two-child households can now receive a 50% discount on tolls source: visitbusanStarting May 15, Busan City is expanding toll benefits on Gwangandaegyo Bridge to include families with two children. Households with three or more children will continue to enjoy a full toll exemption, while two-child families will now receive a 50% discount, bringing the toll from 1,000 won to 500 won. In addition, Hi-Pass users can receive an extra 100 won discount, bringing the total toll to 400 won. An estimated 120,000 families are expected to benefit.The discount applies to non-commercial vehicles: Standard passenger cars, vans with up to 12 seats and small trucks under 1 ton. Vehicles owned or leased by corporations, organizations or businesses are not eligible. Rental or leased vehicles qualify if the contract is under the name of any family member.How to Apply:1.Obtain a vehicle sticker: Visit your local Administrative Welfare Center wth your ID card, vehicle registration certificate and Family Love Card. Don’t have a Family Love Card yet? Apply for one through the Dongbaek Jeon app.2.Register online: Once you have the sticker, register your license plate number and Hi-Pass Card information on the Gwangandaegyo Bridge website.3.The discount will apply automatically the day after registration is completed.A few notes:1.If you cross the bridge without the sticker or registering online, standard tolls will apply. 2.Rechargeable Hi-Pass users should also register a refund account to ensure any missed discounts are refunded. 3.This benefit cannot be stacked with other discounts, such as light-vehicle or continuous-toll discounts.◎ Gwangandaegyo Bridge website: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>include: 포함하다 exemption: 면제 corporation: 기업 obtain: 얻다 automatically: 자동적으로 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy   
• BFS Spring Fair shows everyone belongs in Busan Busan Foreign School's international community shared their cultures at the Spring Fair on April 25.Cultural diversity is now part of everyday life in Busan. Residents interact with people from different cultures at school, work and in their neighborhoods.　The Spring Fair at Busan Foreign School, held on April 25, highlighted Busan's growing diversity. With students and parents from countries including the United States, Greater China, Japan, Mexico, Norway, Kazakhstan, Russia and India, the event had a truly international feel. Participants ran booths featuring traditional foods from their cultures.　The fair also included a parade, a Taekwondo demonstration, traditional dances and a concert.　By bringing local residents and international families together, the Spring Fair showed how Busan is becoming a place where diverse communities can feel at home and celebrate their heritage.　At the lively event, students and parents shared what made the day special. Arina, a student from Russia, joined the parade dressed in a traditional Russian costume. She said she was nervous at first, but the parade was easier than expected, and the festival was exciting.Jesus, Rachel, Onneu, Gabrielle and other students on the Taekwondo team said the performance gave them a strong sense of achievement. One felt proud after breaking a wooden board, while another said completing the final sequence after several attempts boosted their confidence.Rithika, a student who performed an Indian traditional dance, said appearing on stage before an audience was a special experience. Though nervous, she performed confidently.Becki Pochon, a BFS music teacher and parent, said the most meaningful part of the event was spending time with family. After settling in Busan with her Korean spouse, she said, "For me, it is deeply meaningful that I can enjoy this festival with my children." "The Busan Foreign School Spring Fair reflects the diversity of both the school and the city, bringing families and cultures together. For nearly 30 years, BFS has educated students from around the world and continues to prepare globally minded graduates right here in Busan." Lauren Harvey (left), Early Childhood and Elementary Principal Carl Brenneman, Middle and High School Principal 
• Say 'Hi' to Busan with HiBA 　The way travelers explore Busan is steadily transforming. Beyond traditional sightseeing at major attractions, travelers now seek more intimate ways to mingle with others and share moments. HiBA, short for Hidden Busan Adventure, is at the forefront of this trend. HiBA brings international and domestic residents together through various activities, helping them forge deep connections with one another and with Busan.  　HiBA founder Chris Park describes Busan as a city where people can build lasting bonds far beyond just simple tourism. In this edition, Busan is Good spoke with Mr. Park to learn about his vision and journey. HiBA founder Chris ParkQ. What motivated you to start HiBA?A. 　The other day, a traveler joined our community for a run. He left with much more than that: a unique running experience, a reason to return and a book filled with insights about the city. This is exactly the kind of change HiBA aims to inspire. While many visit Busan, they often don't truly engage with it. In my opinion, the core of tourism has shifted from locations to people. I founded HiBA to serve as a bridge that connects individuals through the city. Q. How does HiBA work?A.　Think of HiBA as a community rather than a fixed program. Participants, both local and international, engage in activities such as walking, surfing and climbing. Our signature activity is the Busan Run Club (BRC). Every Saturday morning, we run together against the iconic backdrop of Haeundae and enjoy a coffee break afterward. I believe it's not just about the activity itself; it's about how you spend time with others. Relationships are built through these repeated, shared experiences. Q. When do you think people truly connect with the city?A.　Those connections are made in small, everyday moments, not necessarily at famous landmarks. Whether it's running together, waiting for the right wave or chatting around a table after the day is done-that's when Busan extends beyond a tourism destination and becomes a place you can personally relate to. In these ordinary moments, the city's charm appears more vividly. By moving and talking together, you will experience new things and witness the many diverse layers of Busan. Q. What is HiBA's long-term vision?A.　HiBA aims to deepen its identity by transforming visitors into active participants and evolving simple experiences into lasting relationships. Once this community model is firmly established in Busan, I want to expand this logic to other regions. In a similar vein, I've shared HiBA's journey in my book, "Just Say, Hi Busan," which helps readers learn about the city and guides them to create their own unique experience. Q. Do you have any final words?A.　HiBA starts with the simplest word: "Hi." But that brief greeting can work like magic, turning tourists into people who stay.HiBA members quickly became close even though they met for the first time during the event.　On April 18, Busan is Good met with various participants at HiBA's yacht event.  ① Abo (English teacher from South Africa)　I joined HiBA a year ago at a friend's recommendation, and now I often participate in its activities. I love discovering hidden gems in Busan that I never knew about, and the new activities are always exciting. ② Captain (International student from Uzbekistan, nearing graduation)　This is my first time joining a HiBA event and also my first yachting experience. It's truly impressive that I can have an experience like this right here in Busan. ③ Mia (Korean-American, participating with her daughter, Katelyn)　I joined for the first time on a friend's recommendation, and I really liked the vibrant energy. Spending time with people from so many different countries is a meaningful experience, and I think it will be a wonderful memory for my daughter as well.

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• What to do in May May is one of the best months to visit Busan. Festivals take over the city's most iconic settings - beaches, temples, and hillside neighborhoods - turning familiar landmarks into something worth seeing all over again. Lotus lanterns float above temple courtyards, sand sculptures rise along Haeundae's shore and the smell of fresh coffee drifts through the streets. Whether you're drawn by the food, the art or simply the energy of a city in full spring bloom, May is an exciting time to be in Busan.■ Busan Lotus Lantern Festival 부산연등회◎Date: May 1 to 17◎Location: Song Sanghyeon Square, Busan Citizens Park 　In celebration of Buddha's birthday on May 24, various lotus lanterns will color Song Sanghyeon Square with an enchanting display. Wishing for good fortune, citizens can enjoy a delightful stroll among delicate lights featuring unique designs that capture the eye. On May 16, a street parade will take place at Busan Citizens Park, inviting people to hold lanterns and march together. ■ Global Yeong-do Coffee Festival 영도 커피페스티벌◎Date: May 15 to 17◎Location: Amir Park　This vibrant festival has returned to brew Yeong-do into a hot spot! As the region rises as a home to numerous charming cafes, the event offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy unique coffees from around the world and experience themed activities such as roasting beans and making pour over coffee. ■ Haeundae Sand Festival 해운대모래축제◎Date: May 15 to 18◎Location: Haeundae Beach　Witness the magical transformation of sand at Haeundae Beach! Eleven professional sculptors from Korea, China and France will turn ordinary sand into massive, meticulous art pieces under the theme of "Time Travel in Busan." While the festival runs for three days, the majestic sand sculptures will remain on display until June 14 for all to enjoy. ■ Centum Beer Festival 센텀맥주축제◎Date: May 22 to 31◎Location: Busan Cinema Center　Enjoy ice-cold, all-you-can-drink beer with a single admission ticket! This year, the festival has enhanced its appeal by expanding its food zone and participatory activities. While the core identity remains focused on high-quality beer, each day will feature new entertainment themes, ranging from costumes and tango to retro nights.■ Busan Global Citizen Festival 부산세계시민축제◎Date: May 23◎Location: North Port Waterfront Park (Chinsu Park)　North Port will become a cultural hub where K-culture and global traditions converge. The Busan Global Citizen Festival invites you to experience cultures from around the world. While enjoying international delicacies, charming performances and engaging programs, you will find yourself feeling closer to the world and to our international neighbors. More events: Click
• [SNAPSHOT BUSAN] Busan's first night market, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market 　While Busan is a global hub of commerce, culture and technology, it is also a city where ordinary people live out their daily lives. Away from the glitz and glamour, people chase dreams, spend time with loved ones and experience the highs and lows of a life well lived. Snapshot Busan captures these quiet moments and shows the beauty in daily routines.　This edition covers Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, Busan's first permanent night market. Here, footsteps slow at the sight of tempting snacks, from familiar Korean staples to street food from around the world. As visitors taste the delicacies, delight spreads across their faces, offering a glimpse into an ordinary day in Busan, a city that every foodie has on their map.Every night from 7:30 p.m. to midnight, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market comes alive. Visitors crowd around food stalls to eat local delicacies and iconic street foods from around the world.A simple recipe for a fun night: Close friends and great street food.Grilled hagfish delivers a smoky aroma and sizziling visual that beckon passersby.
• [SNAPSHOT BUSAN] Busan springs to life after a long winter 　While Busan is a global hub of commerce, culture and technology, it is also a city where ordinary people live out their daily lives. Away from the glitz and glamour, people chase dreams, spend time with loved ones and experience the highs and lows of a life well lived. 　Snapshot Busan captures these quiet moments and shows the inherent beauty in daily routines. 　This edition features Busan citizens spending time outdoors and embracing the early spring. The promise of warmer weather and longer days imbues each scene with a revitalizing energy. All images were taken at Hwamyeong Eco Park in Buk-gu District by photographer Minjae Lee.Cherry blossoms don't just herald the arrival of spring; they are a sign that it's baseball season. In Busan, baseball is a family heirloom, a joy passed from one generation to the next.Busanites also love soccer, where a passion for the game pulls people onto the pitch.A familiar sight when the weather is nice; Fathers chasing after their energetic children.

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