News
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City Hall publishes AI-translated press releases aimed at global audiences
Busan City has launched an AI-translated English news service, aimed at global audiences, allowing them to stay updated on the city's major initiatives and events. This initiative reflects on the city's continuous efforts to create an English-friendly environment and enhance Busan's global appeal. The English news service utilizes ChatGPT to translate Korean-written press materials into English. Readers can compare the translation with the original texts, as each post provides both versions. The translations ensure content accuracy by adopting the official English names of toursit attractions, major figures and official organizations. Implementing this official English translation service marks a remarkable milestone for Busan in its journey to become an English-friendly city, as it helps build a repository of promotional materials in English and enhances press release methods for global audiences. Visit the city's English website to access translated news and updates through the AI-translated Press Releases Directory.PR Directory : https://www.busan.go.kr/eng/ai-translated-press-releases
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Top chefs break bread in Busan
Chefs and city officials meet at Gastro Domo. On April 28, Busan hosted Gastro Domo: Future of Busan 2025, a conference devoted to elevating the city's dining and hospitality scene. Industry professionals and city officials gathered at Domoheon, the cultural complex in Suyeong-gu District, to discuss Busan's potential as a global culinary destination. A who's who of Korean food masters participated in the conference, including Mingoo Kang, chef-owner of the three-Michelin-star restaurant Mingles in Seoul; Jeong Kwan, the Zen Buddhist monk and subject of the Netflix documentary "Chef's Table"; and Jooyeon Jeon, the 2019 World Barista Champion and co-head of Busan-based Momos Coffee. Also in attendance were chef Ji-hye Kim of the one-Michelin-star restaurant Fiotto and chef Jae-hoon Kim of the one-Michelin-star restaurant Palate. In the first session, Mr. Kang was joined by big data expert and author Gil-young Song to discuss strategies for advancing Busan's restaurant industry. Next, Ms. Kim and Mr. Kim, who are not related, from Fiotto and Palate discussed the role of local chefs and the region's unique ingredients in shaping Busan's authentic culinary identity. City officials view advancing Busan's dining industry as essential to improving its global reputation as a culture, leisure and MICE tourism hub.
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New organization tasked with fostering startups
Busan Startup Investment Agency The Busan Startup Investment Agency, launched on April 9, serves as a control tower overseeing the city's startup ecosystem and provides critical resources to entrepreneurs. It was established to advance Busan's goal of becoming a global startup hub. BSIA is organized into five teams: Innovation Startups, Growth Infrastructure, Fund Investment, Global Investment, and Operations Support. The agency's inaugural staff includes 35 full-time employees, including a director, and plans to expand to 55. Additional staff will be recruited from existing startup support organizations and recent graduates. BSIA consolidates previously fragmented startup support functions across local organizations and strengthens links with financial institutions. Through a one-stop support system, it offers integrated, end-to-end assistance, from early-stage development to investment attraction. Over the next five years, BSIA plans to create a 1 trillion won fund and expand access to startup-related loan programs. The agency is expected to play a pivotal role in revitalizing the local economy by advancing Busan's status as a financial center with expanded venture capital investment. As an innovation-driven organization, BSIA will oversee the broader startup ecosystem across the southeastern region. Its responsibilities include developing startup support policies, evaluating related programs and managing investment funds. The initiative lays the groundwork for Busan to grow into a global startup hub. The city government plans to support BSIA's efforts by integrating the Busan Financial Hub Policy and collaborating with the Busan International Finance Center and other partners. The goals are to strengthen the local capital market and build a network connecting domestic and international startups and investors. In other startup news, Fly Asia 2025 will take place on Sept. 22 and 23. Now in its fourth year, Fly Asia has quickly grown into Asia's largest startup expo.B-Startup Day presentationFly Asia startup expo
Enjoy Busan
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K-pop and more on deck for the 18th Busan Port Festival: May 30 to 31
Close out the month in style at the 18th Busan Port Festival, May 30 and 31, across scenic waterfront venues including Busan Port International Passenger Terminal, Chinsu Park and the National Maritime Museum.Launched in 2018 to honor Marine Day, May 31, this annual celebration highlights Busan’s maritime heritage with exciting performances, interactive programs and cultural showcases.This year, the fun gets a K-culture upgrade thanks to a special collaboration with MyK Festa, a celebration of Korean culture hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.The highlight of the festival is a K-pop concert at 7 p.m. on May 30 featuring globally beloved idol groups such as Super Junior-D&E, CNBlue, N.Flying and ITZY. The concert ends with a spectacular fireworks display over Busan Port.Concert tickets go on sale at 7 p.m. on May 21 via Melon Ticket. Tickets cost 5,000 won each, and purchases are limited to two per person. Capacity is limited to 10,000 attendees, so grab yours early!On May 31, festivalgoers can dive into family-friendly programs like Global Port Park, boat tours and K-pop cover dance performances at Chinsu Park. At the National Maritime Museum, the Mission Stamp Tour offers a fun and educational way to reflect on Marine Day’s significance.For complete event details, visit the official homepage of the Busan Festivals Organization and the concert event page on Melon Ticket.※ 18th Busan Port Festival, May 30 to 31 ◎ Website: https://www.bfo.or.kr/festival_port/info/01.asp?MENUDIV=1 ◎ Busan Port International Passenger Terminal: 206 Chungjang-daero, Dong-gu ◎ National Maritime Museum: 45 Haeyang-ro 301beon-gil, Yeongdo-gu ◎ Melon Ticket: https://ticket.melon.com/performance/index.htm?prodId=211366#skip_nav<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>scenic: 경치 좋은 waterfront: 해안가 annual: 연간의 heritage: 유산 attendee: 참석자 reflect: 반영하다 significance: 중요성 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Weekend fun: Global Gathering 2025
Global Gathering 2025, the largest multicultural festival in Busan, returns on May 24, filling the city with the vibrant charms of cultures from around the world. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Busan Cinema Center in Centum City. The festival will feature a diverse range of performances that capture the essence of various cultures and stimulate the audience’s senses. Highlights include performances by Korean and Japanese trot singers, a traditional Korean dance by the Busan Metropolitan Dance Company, and special performances by artists from Chongqing, China and Shimonoseki, Japan. In addition, “All-Star English,” a signature program of Busan English Broadcasting, will present a live show.Festivalgoers can also join the Walk Expedition, a raffle event that requires collecting five stamps scattered throughout the venue. Participants can pick up a leaflet and visit designated booths marked to collect stamps. Once all stamps are collected, they will be eligible to test their luck in a prize draw. More than 10 prizes are up for grabs, including major rewards such as international flight tickets and cruise trip tickets. The raffle draw will be held twice during the event.Visitors will also have the opportunity to broaden their culinary horizons by sampling traditional dishes from countries around the world, including many that are seldom encountered in everyday life. For more information about the event, please visit the official website at the link below. ※ Global Gathering 2025, May 24◎ Busan Cinema Center: 120 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu◎ Website: http://www.globalgathering.co.kr/bgcf/<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>multicultural: 다문화의 diverse: 다양한 stimulate: 자극하다 raffle: 추첨 be eligible to: ~의 자격이 있다 broaden: 넓히다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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The Smashing Pumpkins to headline the 2025 Busan International Rock Festival
The 2025 Busan International Rock Festival will take place from Sept. 26 to 28 at Samnak Ecological Park. As the longest-running rock festival in Korea, it is one of the nation’s most iconic international events, electrifying audiences with raw rock energy.With the release of the first lineup, excitement is rapidly building. Beloved acts from around the world will immerse the crowd in musical euphoria against the backdrop of the pristine Nakdong Estuary. The lineup includes American alternative rock legends The Smashing Pumpkins and EDM singer-songwriter Porter Robinson. Japanese kawaii metal trio Babymetal will make their long-awaited return to Korea, and Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra will bring their unique sound to the Samnak stage.Beloved Thai rock band Slot Machine will also offer a fresh take on rock. Leading figures in Korea’s rock scene, such as Guckkasten and Thornapple, are also slated to perform. As a prologue to the festival, the “Road to BU-ROCK” series is already in full swing, offering a taste of the festival’s energy ahead of the main event. After successful runs in Seoul, Busan and Taipei earlier this year, the event returns to Seoul for another showcase on June 21 and 22. For more information, visit the Busan International Rock Festival's official website. ※ 2025 Busan International Rock Festival, Sept. 26 to 28◎ Samnak Ecological Park: 29-46 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu◎ Website: busanrockfestival.com/◎ Instagram: @busanrockfest◎ Tickets (KOR): http://ticket.yes24.com/New/Perf/Detail/DetailSpecial.aspx?IdPerf=53880◎ Tickets (ENG) : http://ticket.yes24.com/Pages/English/Perf/FnPerfDeail.aspx?IdPerf=53880<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>iconic: 상징적인 electrifying: 열광시키는 rapidly: 빠르게 immerse: 몰입시키다 euphoria: 희열 pristine: 자연 그대로의Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Food
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Bite Into Busan ① Meat Lovers
Is Busan good for gourmet explorations? Absolutely! "Bite Into Busan," a new monthly column from Busan is Good, celebrates the city's culinary gems, from beloved local eateries to fine dining establishments. Each featured spot is proudly listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes.This edition highlights three standout destinations, from comforting gukbap and smoky bulgogi to elegant fine dining that captures the essence of Korean cuisine.🍖 Hapcheon Gukbapjip 합천국밥집For a proper introduction to Busan's iconic dish, "dwaeji gukbap," or pork soup with rice, Hapcheon Gukbapjip in the Yongho-dong neighborhood is the place to start. This spot is famous for its clear broth, which neutralizes the strong smell often associated with pork, while delivering deep, savory flavor. Thick slices of tender pork accompany every spoonful.Crafting such a clean-tasting broth requires careful timing. The chefs simmer pork bones just long enough to draw out flavor, then remove them to maintain the soup's clarity. The restaurant also uses the "toryeom" method, where hot broth is poured repeatedly over meat and rice to warm them before serving. Another standout is the "suyuk," boiled pork, served in thick, juicy slices. It's a popular item, so come early as quantities are limited. Note: solo diners are not accommodated during lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.＊Address: 235 Yongho-ro, Nam-gu＊Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 8 p.m. Closed on public holidays.＊Prices: Dwaeji gukbap ￦12,000; suyuk ￦40,000.＊Available: Takeout, foreign language menus.🍖 Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip 광안리 언양불고기 부산집Eonyang bulgogi is a specialty from the Ulsan region, made by finely chopping beef and grilling it over charcoal to create a smoky, rich flavor. What started as a local favorite became nationally known after construction workers building the Gyeongbu Expressway spread the word.Thankfully, Busanites don't need to leave town to enjoy this beloved dish. Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip, affectionately known as "Busanjip," has been serving the Ulsan specialty for over 30 years. The restaurant uses only premium Korean beef and serves organic produce from its farm. Once grilled, the lightly marinated bulgogi releases a mouthwatering aroma, and its tender texture and subtle seasoning let the beef's natural richness shine.The menu also includes sirloin, ribs and skirt steak. Diners also swear by the "yuk sashimi," a Korean beef tartare.＊Address: 32 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ＊Prices: Bulgogi (200g) ￦39,000.＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.🍖 Sogonggan 소공간Sogonggan, which can mean "small space" or "beef space," offers a refined, intimate dining experience centered around Hanwoo, Korean beef. This fine-dining restaurant reinterprets traditional Korean flavors with elegant presentation and seasonal flair.The restaurant offers multicourse prix fixe lunch and dinner menus that showcase the highest-grade, premium Korean beef. Diners can enjoy a rib eye or tenderloin steak and a bowl of "gomtang," a hearty beef-bone broth. Seasonal appetizers and desserts celebrate the best local ingredients, ensuring each visit feels fresh and new.Guests can bring their preferred wine, whisky or sake to pair with their meals and pay a corkage fee. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly menu, tableware, and high chairs. To personalize the experience, the restaurant encourages guests to share dietary restrictions or allergies when booking.＊Address: 4F, 47 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 298beon-gil, Haeundae-gu ＊Hours: Noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.＊Menu: Dinner 11 Course ￦182,000 per person. Lunch 8 Course ￦92,000 per person＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.※ Please note that information, such as a restaurant's address, hours of operation, menu, and contact details, may be subject to change.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>exploration: 탐험 culinary: 미식의 gem: 보석 iconic: 대표적인 broth: 육수 neutralize: 중화하다 savory: 풍미 있는 clarity: 맑음 accommodate: 수용하다 specialty: 특별 요리 charcoal: 숯 tender: 부드러운 subtle: 옅은 intimate: 친밀한 reinterpret: 재해석하다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Busan on a plate: 3 must-try restaurants
Is Busan good for gourmet explorations? Absolutely! "Bite Into Busan," a new monthly column from Busan is Good, celebrates the city's culinary gems, from beloved local eateries to fine dining establishments. Each featured spot is proudly listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. This edition highlights three standout destinations, from comforting gukbap and smoky bulgogi to elegant fine dining that captures the essence of Korean cuisine. Try the suyuk, thick slices of boiled pork, at Hapcheon Gukbapjip■ Hapcheon Gukbapjip 합천국밥집 For a proper introduction to Busan's iconic dish, "dwaeji gukbap," or pork soup with rice, Hapcheon Gukbapjip in the Yongho-dong neighborhood is the place to start. This spot is famous for its clear broth, which neutralizes the strong smell often associated with pork, while delivering deep, savory flavor. Thick slices of tender pork accompany every spoonful. Crafting such a clean-tasting broth requires careful timing. The chefs simmer pork bones just long enough to draw out flavor, then remove them to maintain the soup's clarity. The restaurant also uses the "toryeom" method, where hot broth is poured repeatedly over meat and rice to warm them before serving. Another standout is the "suyuk," boiled pork, served in thick, juicy slices. It's a popular item, so come early as quantities are limited. Note: solo diners are not accommodated during lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.＊Address: 235 Yongho-ro, Nam-gu＊Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 8 p.m. Closed on public holidays.＊Prices: Dwaeji gukbap ￦12,000; suyuk ￦40,000.＊Available: Takeout, foreign language menus.The finely chopped meat at Eonyang Bulgogi captures the smoky flavors from a charcoal grill■ Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip 광안리 언양불고기 부산집 Eonyang bulgogi is a specialty from the Ulsan region, made by finely chopping beef and grilling it over charcoal to create a smoky, rich flavor. What started as a local favorite became nationally known after construction workers building the Gyeongbu Expressway spread the word. Thankfully, Busanites don't need to leave town to enjoy this beloved dish. Gwangalli Eonyang Bulgogi Busanjip, affectionately known as "Busanjip," has been serving the Ulsan specialty for over 30 years. The restaurant uses only premium Korean beef and serves organic produce from its farm. Once grilled, the lightly marinated bulgogi releases a mouthwatering aroma, and its tender texture and subtle seasoning let the beef's natural richness shine. The menu also includes sirloin, ribs and skirt steak. Diners also swear by the "yuk sashimi," a Korean beef tartare.＊Address: 32 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ＊Prices: Bulgogi (200g) ￦39,000.＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.Sogonggan's buckwheat noodles and hanwoo steak are perfect dinner companions■ Sogonggan 소공간 Sogonggan, which can mean "small space" or "beef space," offers a refined, intimate dining experience centered around Hanwoo, Korean beef. This fine-dining restaurant reinterprets traditional Korean flavors with elegant presentation and seasonal flair. The restaurant offers multicourse prix fixe lunch and dinner menus that showcase the highest-grade, premium Korean beef. Diners can enjoy a rib eye or tenderloin steak and a bowl of "gomtang," a hearty beef-bone broth. Seasonal appetizers and desserts celebrate the best local ingredients, ensuring each visit feels fresh and new. Guests can bring their preferred wine, whisky or sake to pair with their meals and pay a corkage fee. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly menu, tableware, and high chairs. To personalize the experience, the restaurant encourages guests to share dietary restrictions or allergies when booking.＊Address: 4F, 47 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 298beon-gil, Haeundae-gu ＊Hours: Noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.＊Menu: Dinner 11 Course ￦182,000 per person. Lunch 8 Course ￦92,000 per person＊Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.※ Please note that information, such as a restaurant's address, hours of operation, menu, and contact details, may be subject to change.
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Where to eat: 'Taste of Busan 2025'
Busan Metropolitan City has released "Taste of Busan 2025," the definitive guide for gourmands seeking authentic dining experiences in the city. Now in its 23rd year, "Taste of Busan" highlights the city's most beloved restaurants and cafes. Selections are based on on-site evaluations and expert recommendations from industry professionals, food columnists and influencers, alongside data from local hygiene departments and online and offline reviews. The guide is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Notably, 20 of these establishments are also included in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025. "Taste of Busan" provides a comprehensive overview of dining options throughout the city, from casual barbecue spots to sophisticated French-inspired fine dining restaurants. Haeundae-gu and Suyeong-gu districts, which form the epicenter of Busan's tourism, boast the most selections, with 29 and 22 eateries, respectively. "Taste of Busan 2025" is available online via the city's official tourism portal Visit Busan, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, train stations, hotels and Gimhae International Airportlink : click
Life
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Free outdoor movie nights at the Busan Cinema Center
source: dureraum.orgWatching a movie under the stars is an essential experience in Busan, the City of Film. Luckily, the Busan Cinema Center offers free outdoor movie nights on select Tuesdays through Aug. 5. Screenings begin at 8 p.m. at the center’s Outdoor Theater.Since 2012, this beloved program has invited Busan residents to experience popular and award-winning films in an open-air setting. The movie showings are held rain or shine, thanks to the theater’s iconic cantilevered roof keeping moviegoers nice and dry.No tickets or reservations are required; just drop by and enjoy the show! Visitors also receive up to four hours of free parking. For more information, visit the Busan Cinema Center homepage.※ Free Outdoor Movie Nights, Tuesdays at 8 p.m.◎ Busan Cinema Center: 120 Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu◎ Website: https://www.dureraum.org/bcc/board/view.do?rbsIdx=258&idx=1787◎ Inquiries: 051-780-6080<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>essential: 필수적인 screening: 상영 beloved: 사랑받는 reservation: 예약Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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"Cultural events contribute to a more welcoming and inclusive Busan"
Maria Baek speaking at Filipinos Leadership Training 2025. Every year, the Busan Global City Foundation hosts Global Gathering, a celebration of the city's multiculturalism. During the event, international communities come together to showcase their cultures and promote mutual understanding and inclusivity. This year's participants include United Fil-Korean Families, a vibrant community of residents from the Philippines. Busan is Good spoke with Maria Cherry Ann Baek, the president of UFF, on the importance of Global Gathering in fostering a diverse society. Q. Please introduce yourself and United Fil-Korean Families.A. My name is Maria Cherry Ann Baek, and I am the president of United Fil-Korean Families. UFF is a community-based organization that supports and empowers multicultural families, especially those with Filipino-Korean backgrounds, here in Busan. Our mission is to promote inclusivity, cultural understanding and mutual support among diverse communities. UFF was founded in 2019 in response to the growing need for support among multicultural families in Busan, particularly Filipino-Korean households. What started as a small support group has grown into an active and vibrant community. We support migrant workers and Filipino students as well.Q. What kind of activities does UFF carry out in Busan?A. We organize and participate in various activities, such as Global Gathering, cultural exchange events, language support programs, events for empowering marriage migrants, like Mrs. Busan Philippines 2024 and 2025, and volunteer initiatives. We aim to create a safe space where multicultural families can connect, share experiences and grow together. To date, UFF has supported over 150 families and organized more than 50 cultural and educational events. We are especially proud of our youth mentoring and family wellness initiatives, which have had a meaningful impact on strengthening family bonds and promoting cultural identity.Q. Could you tell us about your involvement with Global Gathering?A. Yes, we are proud to have been part of several events hosted by the Busan Global City Foundation, especially the annual Global Gathering. It's a vibrant celebration of cultures where we share and showcase Filipino traditions, food and performances with the broader community. For us, it's an opportunity to showcase our heritage and build bridges with other communities in Busan. This year, UFF plans to host a Filipino food booth, present a traditional dance performance and offer interactive cultural activities for visitors. We are also collaborating with other multicultural groups to promote unity and solidarity through shared experiences. We're also excited to introduce a new storytelling segment featuring multicultural family experiences, which we hope will create deep connections with attendees.Q. What made you participate in the Global Gathering event?A. We believe visibility and cultural representation are key to building a more inclusive society. Participating in Global Gathering allows us to educate others about our culture, celebrate diversity and promote mutual respect. It's also a joyful and empowering experience for our members, especially the younger generation.Q. Why are cultural exchange events important?A. Cultural exchange events like Global Gathering are essential for fostering understanding and harmony in a diverse society. They break down stereotypes, create meaningful connections and remind us that our differences are something to be celebrated. These events contribute greatly to building a more welcoming and inclusive Busan.※ Global Gathering 2025 will take place on Saturday, May 24 at the Busan Cinema Center. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors can expect cultural experiences, live performances and a special recording of BeFM's “All-Star English”radio program.
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A spark of inspiration, delivered directly to you every Monday
To help book lovers kick off their week with a spark of inspiration, Busan Library offers a Weekly Book Talk (주간책톡) service. Every Monday morning at 8:30 a.m., personalized book summaries tailored to each subscriber’s interests are sent via KakaoTalk.Subscribers can receive up to six weekly book summaries from 12 topics ranging from finance and humanities to philosophy, parenting, health, and even Busan-themed books. Each summary, put together by professionals, condenses the key content of a book into just a few pages. It’s a smart pick for busy readers who want to stay informed.Anyone registered with the Busan Integrated Library System can sign up via the Busan Library website or the “주간책톡” KakaoTalk Channel. The service is available to 8,000 subscribers and will run until Dec. 22. Individuals without a subscription can still explore the entire archive of summaries through the library’s official website, by following these directions: Search (자료검색) - Online Contents (온라인 컨텐츠) – Reading (독서) – Book Zip (북집).◎ Busan Library: library.busan.go.kr◎ Subscription:(1) via website: click(2) via KakaoTalk: click◎ Inquiries: 051-310-5431<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>kick off: 시작하다 inspiration: 영감 personalized: 개인 맞춤형 summary: 요약 tailored to: ~에 맞춘 condense: 요약하다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Views
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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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No pain, no gain on the 'Secret Coffee Road'
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.The coastal walking trail from Orangdae Park to Ananti at Busan Cove is an ideal place for a spring outing. The smooth path, endless blue sea and the sound of crashing waves make for a perfect stroll.■ YOLO Route 2 In Korean, the expression "go jin gam rae (고진감래)" can be translated as "sweetness after bitterness." Like the adage "no pain, no gain," "go jin gam rae" expresses the wisdom that one must endure a bitter hardship before a sweet reward. The notion of "sweetness after bitterness" applies to many aspects of life and perfectly describes YOLO Route 2. Also known as the "Secret Coffee Road," YOLO Route 2 is a 16-kilometer, physically demanding course with a cumulative elevation of 580 meters. Hikers who brave the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and charming coffee houses. The course starts at Gijang-gun County Office, a 10-minute walk from Gijang Station on the Donghae Line (exit 2). Following the Galmaetgil signs through Woosin Neoville Apartment Complex, trekkers encounter the first "bitter" challenge, a steep 230-meter climb up Bongdaesan Mountain. At the summit, visitors are greeted by views of the Gijang coastline and the East Sea. Descending from Bongdaesan, the trail leads to Woljeon Village, home to the picturesque Jukseong Catholic Church. Though it looks like a place of worship, this iconic landmark and popular tourist attraction was originally built as a set for the television series "Dream" (2009). Another hike up Bongdaesan leads to Daebyeonhang Port, where the "sweet" part of the route begins. From here, the route transforms into a scenic coastal walk and earns its "Secret Coffee Road" moniker. The course is dotted with an array of coffee shops. From luxurious cafes to cozy breweries, trekkers can find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee.Cafes along YOLO Route 2 feature great ocean views.Take a rest at the Songiljeong Pavilion at Songjeong Beach.YOLO Guide : Click
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In Busan, 'YOLO' means long walks by the sea
Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are a collection of hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources. With long walks along beaches, gentle climbs up mountain slopes and invigorating dips in hot springs, the trails are beloved by citizens. The collection of routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil is especially popular. The 10 routes combine hiking with cultural assets like quaint villages, cafes and historic sites. 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 Galmaet-gil Route 1-1 YOLO Route 1, also known as "The Beginning," starts on the sandy shores in Gijang-gun County in eastern Busan. The trail stretches 9.1 kilometers from Imnang Beach to Ilgwang Beach. The walk takes approximately three hours, featuring flat terrain with expansive ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. The journey begins at Imnang Beach, a serene location on Busan's easternmost shore. Its pristine white sand stretches over a kilometer, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea. Sinpyeong Small Park is the perfect place to rest tired legs. The ocean view, traditional pavilion and well-grown pine trees heal your body and mind.Take in the ocean at an observatory in Sinpyeong Small Park.Get a view of unique lighthouses at Chilamhang Port. Heading south, walkers reach Chilamhang Port, known for its distinctive lighthouses. The port is famous for fresh conger eel sashimi, attracting visitors from across Korea. A notable stop is Chilamsagye, a bakery and cafe founded by Busan-born confectionery master Heung-yong Lee. Selected as a 2024 Taste of Busan establishment, it offers fresh pastries and coffee with stunning sea views. The journey concludes at Ilgwang Beach, one of Gijang-gun's eight scenic wonders. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it a popular destination for families. At the central observatory, shaped like a ship's bow, visitors can take in an uninterrupted view of the horizon, marking the perfect end to this scenic coastal walk.Learn more about YOLO Galmaet-gil Course 1 : Click
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