Busan is good

News

• Busan to host the nation's biggest sports festival  In October, Busan will be filled with the fierce and heart-pumping spirit of competition as it hosts the 106th National Sports Festival and the 45th National Para Games. It has been 25 years since Busan last hosted the National Sports Festival, and the event’s return to the city will see a record number of participants.According to the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee, the festival will welcome 28,791 participants from 17 metropolitan cities and provinces nationwide, including 19,418 athletes (12,354 men and 7,064 women) and 9,373 officials.Additionally, Korean sports organizations operating overseas will send a 1,515-member delegation comprising athletes and officials from 18 countries. With more than 4,200 volunteers on board, Busan has prepared extensively to ensure smooth operations, reflecting both the city’s commitment and its citizens’ passion for this significant event. Athletes will compete in 48 events, with an additional two events, foot volleyball and jiu-jitsu, featured as demonstration sports. Each event will include four categories: under-18, university, overseas Koreans and general.Following the National Sports Festival, the 45th National Para Games will take place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 5, featuring 31 sports across 38 venues throughout the city.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>fierce: 맹렬한 delegation: 대표단 athlete: 운동선수 extensively: 광범위하게 venue: 장소Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Investments in tourism lead to record-breaking numbers source: BusanilboTourism in Busan is thriving this year. By July, the city had already welcomed over 2 million international visitors. At this pace, Busan is on track to welcome over 3 million foreign tourists by year's end, solidifying its position as a global travel hub. The city welcomed over one million foreign visitors between January and April, the earliest Busan has reached the one-million mark since official tracking began in 2014. Then, the figure doubled, and by July, 2,003,466 international tourists had visited the city. This surge represents a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2024.The top visitor groups by country are Taiwan (377,912 visitors), China (315,318), Japan (266,707), the United States (145,535) and the Philippines (99,536). Compared to last year, the figures from nearly all major countries increased, signaling the steady expansion of Busan's inbound tourism market. This trend is viewed as a positive sign for sustaining the momentum of Busan's tourism industry.Domestic tourism also showed robust growth. According to mobile phone data compiled by the Korea Tourism Data Lab, Busan attracted 92.13 million Korean visitors from January to July, representing a 6.8% year-over-year increase in visitors. Of these, 40.3% came from neighboring Gyeongsangnam Province, followed by 11.3% from Gyeonggi Province and 10.7% from Seoul. Officials cite several key factors driving Busan's tourism boom.The international exposure of Busan's brand value as a global hub city during the bid process to host the 2030 World Expo played a significant role in attracting foreign visitors. The process enabled Busan to showcase its cultural, leisure, gourmet and business offerings to global audiences.Furthermore, Busan developed tourism content to capitalize on the global popularity of K-culture and showcase the city's unique attractions; strengthened marine tourism through the revitalization of beaches and the promotion of ocean-centric events; and enhanced tourist convenience with products like the Visit Busan Pass and Busan Pay. With major events still on the calendar, such as the Busan Fireworks Festival, officials expect the flow of tourism to continue throughout the year.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>tourism: 관광 solidify: 굳히다 surge: 급등 domestic: 국내의 exposure: 노출 popularity: 인기Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Essential travel tips for a Busan adventure　　  The Haeundae Beach Train and Sky Capsule at Haeundae Blueline Park glide along Busan's stunning east coast. The attraction welcomed nearly 1.2 million foreign riders in 2024.　　　 Currency Exchange, Roaming and Luggage Services　Arriving in Busan is easy and convenient. Travelers can exchange foreign currency for Korean won at Busan Bank branches inside Gimhae International Airport and the Busan Port International Passenger Terminal. The airport branch, located on the 2nd floor of the international terminal, is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The port terminal branch operates from 7:40 a.m. to 7:40 p.m., with hours adjusted to cruise schedules.　On the same floor, visitors will also find roaming centers operated by Korea's three major mobile carriers, KT, SKT and LG. These centers provide professional support for mobile services, ensuring smooth connectivity throughout your stay.　For those who prefer to travel hands-free, Zim Carry offers convenient luggage delivery straight to your accommodation, along with secure storage options. Counters are located between gates 3 and 4 on the 3rd floor of Gimhae Airport's international terminal and near Gate 4 on the 2nd floor of Busan Port International Passenger Terminal.　　　 Getting Around: Urban Transportation　Busan's transportation network makes exploring the city effortless. The Busan Metro comprises four subway lines, the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL), and the Donghae Line, which cover key areas across Busan, Gimhae and Yangsan. Trains generally operate from 5 a.m. until midnight, with first and last train times varying by station. Travelers can choose between QR tickets, mobile passes, commuter passes or reloadable transit cards. 　Public transit tickets and passes can be purchased at stations or convenience stores throughout the city.　Buses are another convenient way to get around. Due to Busan's mountainous terrain, routes often wind up and down hills, offering scenic city views along the way. Options include regular buses that travel across districts, express buses that travel across the city, village buses that stay within a particular neighborhood, city tour buses that travel between Busan landmarks and shuttle services.　Transfer discounts are available when switching between buses and subways within a 30-minute period. Up to two transfers are permitted per journey, making it an affordable way to explore multiple neighborhoods on a single trip.　　　  Emergency Medical Services　Safety is a priority when visiting Busan. In the event of an accident or emergency, travelers can dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for ambulance services. Calls in English are supported, and your location is automatically detected.　For everyday needs, pharmacies are easily accessible and offer a range of prescription drugs, as well as over-the-counter essentials such as fever reducers, pain relievers, digestive aids and cold medicine. Convenience stores also stock basic medication.　Busan is home to 15 international medical centers that welcome foreign patients. These facilities cover a wide range of specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, ophthalmology and obstetrics and gynecology. Services vary by hospital, ensuring visitors can access the care they need.　　　 Must-Have Travel Companion: The Visit Busan Pass　The Visit Busan Pass is an essential tool for international visitors. Cost-effective and convenient, it offers free entry to top attractions, access to public transportation and exclusive discounts on shopping, dining and accommodation.　Four types of passes are available to match different travel styles. The 24-hour and 48-hour passes are ideal for quick visits, offering unlimited access to attractions within the chosen timeframe. The Big 3 and Big 5 passes allow travelers to pick and choose from Busan's highlights at a more relaxed pace.　The pass can be downloaded directly to your smartphone, granting instant access to major attractions such as Haeundae Blue Line Park, Lotte World Adventure Busan and the Arte Museum. Additionally, it unlocks discounts at more than 120 establishments across the city, ranging from Michelin-rated restaurants to stylish rooftop lounges.　The official Visit Busan Pass app offers suggested itineraries, maps and real-time updates to enhance your trip. It also integrates with Busan Pay, a local payment system for international visitors, enabling seamless transactions throughout the city.　Passes can be purchased online via the official website, mobile app, Klook and Trip.com, or in person at Gimhae International Airport, Busan Station and selected hotels. With one in hand, travelers can go beyond Busan's famous beaches and discover the city's full range of experiences.※Learn More : Click※Visit Busan Pass website : Click

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Enjoy Busan

• A new view at every stop: Busan subway tour source: Saha-gu OfficeBusan's metro isn't just the easiest way to get around - it's also your ticket to explore the city's most exciting attractions. With colorful lines weaving through downtown, mountains, riverside and the coastline, every ride can lead to a wonderful discovery.In this issue, Busan is Good takes you on a ride to must-see destinations, connected by orange, green, yellow and blue lines that thread through the heart of the city.Trace the metro lines between the images and map out your own itinerary. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local rediscovering your hometown, the subway offers a fast, stress-free and affordable way to travel between Busan's landmarks.Step onto the platform, mind the gap and let the city's transit system guide your journey. With the metro as your map, Busan's best sights are only a few stops away.🧡 Orange Line (Line 1), Southern BusanGamcheon Cultural Village: A hillside maze of brightly painted houses and murals—great for meandering strolls and hidden art finds. About 20 minutes on foot from Toseong Station; the route is steep, so riding a local bus is recommended. ○ 2203 Gamnae-ro 2, Saha-guDadaepo Beach: Wide sands and legendary sunsets—one of Busan’s most romantic evening views. Direct access from Dadaepo Beach Station, exits 2 or 4. ○ 680 Dadae-ro, Saha-gu💚 Green Line (Line 2), Eastern BusanGwangalli Beach: Nightlife hotspot featuring drone light shows on Saturdays and the sparkling Gwangan Bridge backdrop. About a 12-minute walk from Gwangan Station, exits 3 or 5. ○ 219 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-guThe Bay 101: Marine City’s sleek towers and dazzling lights shape Busan’s most modern skyline—best viewed after dark. About a 10-minute walk from Dongbaek Station, Exit 1. ○ 52 Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu* Explore Busan's must-see attractions at Visit Busan: Click * Discover Busan Metro routes and travel tips: Click * Need help? Call 1330 or visit the website to chat in 8 languages: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>itinerary: 일정 mural: 벽화 sleek: 매끄러운 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Must-Have Travel Companion: The Visit Busan Pass  The Visit Busan Pass is an essential tool for international visitors. Cost-effective and convenient, it offers free entry to top attractions, access to public transportation and exclusive discounts on shopping, dining and accommodation.Four types of passes are available to match different travel styles. The 24-hour and 48-hour passes are ideal for quick visits, offering unlimited access to attractions within the chosen timeframe. The Big 3 and Big 5 passes allow travelers to pick and choose from Busan's highlights at a more relaxed pace.The pass can be downloaded directly to your smartphone, granting instant access to major attractions such as Haeundae Blue Line Park, Lotte World Adventure Busan and the Arte Museum. Additionally, it unlocks discounts at more than 120 establishments across the city, ranging from Michelin-rated restaurants to stylish rooftop lounges.The official Visit Busan Pass app offers suggested itineraries, maps and real-time updates to enhance your trip. It also integrates with Busan Pay, a local payment system for international visitors, enabling seamless transactions throughout the city.Passes can be purchased online via the official website, mobile app, Klook and Trip.com, or in person at Gimhae International Airport, Busan Station and selected hotels. With one in hand, travelers can go beyond Busan's famous beaches and discover the city's full range of experiences.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>essential: 필수적인 entry: 입장 attraction: 관광 명소 exclusive: 독점적인 itinerary: 일정 enhance: 향상시키다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Essential travel tips for a Busan adventure　　 source: visitbusan💰 Currency Exchange, Roaming and Luggage ServicesArriving in Busan is easy and convenient. Travelers can exchange foreign currency for Korean won at Busan Bank branches inside Gimhae International Airport and the Busan Port International Passenger Terminal. The airport branch, located on the 2nd floor of the international terminal, is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The port terminal branch operates from 7:40 a.m. to 7:40 p.m., with hours adjusted to cruise schedules.On the same floor, visitors will also find roaming centers operated by Korea's three major mobile carriers, KT, SKT and LG. These centers provide professional support for mobile services, ensuring smooth connectivity throughout your stay.For those who prefer to travel hands-free, Zim Carry offers convenient luggage delivery straight to your accommodation, along with secure storage options. Counters are located between gates 3 and 4 on the 3rd floor of Gimhae Airport's international terminal and near Gate 4 on the 2nd floor of Busan Port International Passenger Terminal.🚌 Getting Around: Urban TransportationBusan's transportation network makes exploring the city effortless. The Busan Metro comprises four subway lines, the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGL), and the Donghae Line, which cover key areas across Busan, Gimhae and Yangsan. Trains generally operate from 5 a.m. until midnight, with first and last train times varying by station. Travelers can choose between QR tickets, mobile passes, commuter passes or reloadable transit cards. Public transit tickets and passes can be purchased at stations or convenience stores throughout the city.Buses are another convenient way to get around. Due to Busan's mountainous terrain, routes often wind up and down hills, offering scenic city views along the way. Options include regular buses that travel across districts, express buses that travel across the city, village buses that stay within a particular neighborhood, city tour buses that travel between Busan landmarks and shuttle services.Transfer discounts are available when switching between buses and subways within a 30-minute period. Up to two transfers are permitted per journey, making it an affordable way to explore multiple neighborhoods on a single trip.🚨 Emergency Medical ServicesSafety is a priority when visiting Busan. In the event of an accident or emergency, travelers can dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for ambulance services. Calls in English are supported, and your location is automatically detected.For everyday needs, pharmacies are easily accessible and offer a range of prescription drugs, as well as over-the-counter essentials such as fever reducers, pain relievers, digestive aids and cold medicine. Convenience stores also stock basic medication.Busan is home to 15 international medical centers that welcome foreign patients. These facilities cover a wide range of specialties, including internal medicine, surgery, ophthalmology and obstetrics and gynecology. Services vary by hospital, ensuring visitors can access the care they need.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>convenient: 편리한 exchange: 환전하다 professional: 전문적인 connectivity: 연결성 accomodation: 숙소 storage: 보관 generally: 일반적으로 operate: 운영하다 throughout: 전역에서 terrain: 지형 assistance: 도움 automatically: 자동적으로 detect: 추적하다 medication: 약 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy

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Food

• Eat your way through Busan 　Food lovers, take note: Busan is a city that rewards curiosity. From bustling seafood markets to stylish bistros, the city offers an abundance of dining options. Across the city, diners will find hundreds of officially designated "Taste of Busan" establishments that promise high-quality meals at fair prices. 　At the higher end, Busan's culinary reputation is on the rise. The city's Michelin Guide features three one-star restaurants along with numerous Bib Gourmand and Selected listings, proof that Busan is a must-visit for gourmands. 　Busan offers so much more than fried chicken, barbecue and kimchi. Whether alone, with a date or with a mate, the city is best experienced with an open mind, an empty stomach and loose pants.■Taste of Busan 2025(click to download the guidebook)Enjoy fresh sashimi at Seonchang Hoetjip. 　 Generous portions and toppings are standard at Lee Jaemo Pizza.Gamasot has been serving pork ribs for 30 years. 　■Michelin Guide restaurant in Busan(Click to learn more)Palate(one-star)Fiotto(one-star and Green Star)Mori(one-star) 
• Bite Into Busan ③ Noodles source: Taste of 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. This month, we take a long look at noodles. Across East Asia, they have evolved from humble, post-war staples to icons of cultural identity. Whether it's icy Korean naengmyeon, savory Japanese ramen or nourishing Taiwanese beef noodle soup, these dishes remind us how strands of dough can carry stories across borders and bring people together, one bowl at a time.🍜 Buda Myeonoak 부다면옥This Pyongyang naengmyeon specialty spot is known for its clean, refreshing flavors. Korean beef shank and fresh vegetables are boiled separately, then cooled the traditional way to create a deeply flavorful broth.*Address: 2F, 36 Jungdong1-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Last order at 7:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays.*Menu: Naengmyeon ￦12,000🍜 100.1.Pyeongnaeng 백일평냉True to the craft of traditional cold noodle makers, this restaurant serves authentic Pyongyang naengmyeon with beef broth, salt, and 80% buckwheat noodles. The menu also features homemade North Korean dumpling soup and bulgogi.*Address: 1F, 29 Namcheonbada-ro 10beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order at 8 p.m.*Menu: Pyongyang/Bibim naengmyeon ￦13,000*Available: Takeout🍜 Bao Haus 바오하우스A casual spot serving Taiwanese comfort food with a twist. Try their bao and signature beef noodle soup, both served with quick and friendly service. This popular eatery is housed in a compact space, so waiting times can be long without a reservation.*Address: 62-9 Seojeon-ro 38beon-gil, Busanjin-gu*Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Breaktime from 3 to 5 p.m. No breaktime on weekends.*Menu: Beef noodle soup ￦12,500*Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus🍜 Nagahama Mangetsu 나가하마 만게츠Located in the buzzy Haeridan-gil neighborhood, this "ramenya" is the first Korean branch of a popular ramen shop from Fukuoka, Japan. The restaurant's signature Nagahama Ramen draws long lines of diners, who covet the rich, milky, savory broth and thin noodles. *Address: 1F, Daeyeong Building, 57 Udong 1-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for lunch and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. Closed on public holidays.*Menu: Nagahama Ramen ￦11,000<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>humble: 검소한 flavorful: 풍미 있는 broth: 육수 buzzy: 활기 넘치는Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• Long strands of tradition 　"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. 　This month, we take a long look at noodles. Across East Asia, they have evolved from humble, post-war staples to icons of cultural identity. Whether it's icy Korean naengmyeon, savory Japanese ramen or nourishing Taiwanese beef noodle soup, these dishes remind us how strands of dough can carry stories across borders and bring people together, one bowl at a time.A bowl of naengmyeon at Buda Myeonoak.■Buda Myeonoak 부다면옥　This Pyongyang naengmyeon specialty spot is known for its clean, refreshing flavors. Korean beef shank and fresh vegetables are boiled separately, then cooled the traditional way to create a deeply flavorful broth.*Address: 2F, 36 Jungdong1-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Last order at 7:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays.*Menu: Naengmyeon ￦12,000*Google Map: ClickChoose between naengmyeon in cold broth or sweet and spicy bibim naengmyeon at 100.1.Pyeongnaeng.■100.1.Pyeongnaeng 백일평냉　True to the craft of traditional cold noodle makers, this restaurant serves authentic Pyongyang naengmyeon with beef broth, salt, and 80% buckwheat noodles. The menu also features homemade North Korean dumpling soup and bulgogi.*Address: 1F, 29 Namcheonbada-ro 10beon-gil, Suyeong-gu*Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order at 8 p.m.*Menu: Pyongyang/Bibim naengmyeon ￦13,000*Available: Takeout*Google Map: ClickThe beef noodle soup at Bao Haus.Dan dan noodles at Bao Haus.■Bao Haus 바오하우스　A casual spot serving Taiwanese comfort food with a twist. Try their bao and signature beef noodle soup, both served with quick and friendly service. This popular eatery is housed in a compact space, so waiting times can be long without a reservation.*Address: 62-9 Seojeon-ro 38beon-gil, Busanjin-gu*Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Breaktime from 3 to 5 p.m. No breaktime on weekends.*Menu: Beef noodle soup ￦12,500*Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus*Google Map: ClickTonkotsu ramen at Nagahama Mangetsu.■Nagahama Mangetsu 나가하마 만게츠　Located in the buzzy Haeridan-gil neighborhood, this "ramenya" is the first Korean branch of a popular ramen shop from Fukuoka, Japan. The restaurant's signature Nagahama Ramen draws long lines of diners, who covet the rich, milky, savory broth and thin noodles. *Address: 1F, Daeyeong Building, 57 Udong 1-ro, Haeundae-gu*Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for lunch and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. Closed on public holidays.*Menu: Nagahama Ramen ￦11,000*Google Map: Click

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Life

• Medical services to stay open during Chuseok source: getty imageWith the extended Chuseok holidays, from Oct. 3 to 9, Busan Metropolitan City will implement medical support measures to minimize inconvenience and ensure seamless emergency care for its citizens.As part of the Chuseok Holiday Emergency Medical Service Plan, the city will operate an “Emergency Medical Situation Room” to monitor conditions and manage the availability of medical institutions, including emergency rooms, hospitals and pharmacies. Residents can easily search for nearby institutions by district through the Emergency Medical Portal (www.e-gen.or.kr). Additionally, 38 emergency medical institutions across the city will operate 24 hours a day, including major regional emergency centers such as Dong-A University Hospital and Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital.To improve medical accessibility, public health centers across Busan will remain open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., although specific operating days and hours may vary by district. Busan Medical Center in Yeonje-gu District, along with 37 other general hospitals, will provide limited outpatient services while keeping their emergency rooms open 24 hours. Parents should also note that 99 Seoul Pediatric Clinic in Dongnae-gu District and Geumjeong Pediatric Clinic in Geumjeong-gu District will remain open on Chuseok Day (Oct. 6) to care for children in need.Residents can obtain a detailed list of available hospitals and pharmacies by calling the Ministry of Health and Welfare Call Center (☎ 129) or the 119 General Situation Room (☎ 119). The same information is also accessible without delay via the Emergency Medical Portal (E-GEN) or the “Emergency-ddokddok” mobile app. Since operating hours may change due to unforeseen circumstances, please confirm with each institution by phone before visiting.◎ Official website of Busan Metropolitan City: www.busan.go.kr◎ Emergency Medical Portal (E-GEN): www.e-gen.or.kr◎ Download “응급똑똑” (Emergency-ddokddok):- Apple iOS: Click - Android: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>implement: 시행하다 measure: 조치 minimize: 최소화하다 inconvenience: 불편 operate: 운영하다 availability: 가능 institution: 기관 vary: 달리 하다 district: 구 outpatient: 외래 환자 unforseen: 예상할 수 없는 circumstance: 상황Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
• My Busan Story ② Lost in Gamcheon, Found in Busan 　"My Busan Story" is a special series by Busan's English-language newspaper, inviting foreign residents to share their unique perspectives on life in the city. From unforgettable experiences and travel episodes to small everyday joys, these stories highlight the diverse voices that make Busan feel like home. This month, we introduce the story of Martín Glikman from Canada.Martin Glikman remembers the warmth he felt in Busan.　It was early morning in Gamcheon Culture Village. The sun started to shine on the colorful rooftops, and the narrow streets were quiet, except for some voices echoing through the streets.　I had wandered around the streets for some time, it was time to leave, but I had no clue how. I did not want to use my phone, and all roads seemed identical.　Then I heard a group of grandmas talking nearby. It sounded like they were yelling. Their voices carried clearly, loud, warm, and unmistakably Busan. I nervously followed the sound and asked, "죄송한데요. 여기서 어떻게 나가요?"　They smiled and immediately answered in Busan dialect, speaking fast and confidently. I barely understood anything. My Korean was standard and straight out of a textbook. Theirs was natural and local. But instead of giving up, they laughed kindly, repeated themselves more slowly, and added gestures to help me understand. 　They even taught me how to say a few phrases in Busan dialect, correcting my pronunciation and showed interest in where I was from and why I was in Busan. I wasn't just getting directions, I was learning, connecting, and being welcomed.　That small moment stayed with me, it was my first time using my Korean in Busan, and instead of being embarrassed or shy, I was welcomed. Despite a language gap, they welcomed me as a neighbor, not merely a traveler.　There are moments like those all over Busan, sincere, raw kindness from people who welcome you as one of their own.　That morning, I was just trying to find my way out of Gamcheon. But I found something more meaningful: the warmth of local people, the charm of Busan dialect, and a city that embraces you even when you're lost.　That's what makes Busan special to me.
• [INTERVIEW] "I like to help people, and Busan is giving me the opportunity to do that" Lida, from Iran, studies public service design at DSU.　"If I Were Reborn, I Would Live in Busan Too," a new web series on BusanTube, the city's official YouTube channel, has released its third episode. The series features people from various backgrounds as they share their personal experiences of living in Busan. 　The videos offer a glimpse into life in Busan as experienced by non-Koreans, highlighting the city's unique charms from a fresh perspective. For this edition, we spoke with Lida, an Iranian student featured in the third episode. As a public service design major, she shared her perspective on Busan's public spaces and reflected on what studying in the city means to her. Q. Could you please introduce yourself?A. Hello, my name is Lida. I am from Iran and currently pursuing my master's degree in design at Dongseo University in Busan. My focus is on inclusive service design, especially improving accessibility and experiences for foreigners in Korea. I also have a background in visual communication and over five years of experience in graphic design.Q. What inspired you to study in Korea, particularly in Busan? And what led you to study public service design?A.　I chose Korea because of its strong reputation in design, innovation and cultural creativity. Busan attracted me not only as a vibrant port city with international diversity but also because it is a growing hub for design and cultural exchange. 　During my time here, I have experienced firsthand the challenges that foreigners face in public services, such as language barriers in emergencies or difficulties with banking. These experiences inspired me to study public service design specifically in Busan, as I wanted to work on solutions that can make daily life easier for both foreigners and locals.Q. As a specialist in the field, where do you think public service design has been well implemented in Busan?A.　Busan has made significant progress in areas such as public transportation design. The subway lines, with their clear color-coded systems and the integration of metro-bus transfers, are strong examples. Additionally, the city has developed public spaces such as the F1963 cultural complex and the Gwangan Bridge area with inclusive elements that cater to diverse visitors. However, there is still room for improvement in accessibility for foreigners in administrative services, emergency services and digital platforms.Q. How has your experience of studying abroad in Busan influenced your values or career goals?A.　Studying in Busan has taught me to view design not only as visual aesthetics but also as a social tool for inclusivity and equity. My personal experiences of facing barriers here gave me empathy and motivation to design solutions for others. It shifted my career goals from focusing mainly on visual design to working in service design and UX design, with the aim of improving systems where cultural and language differences create challenges. In general, I like to help people, and Busan is giving me the opportunity to do that.Q. Could you give some advice to students in Iran who are thinking about studying in Busan?A.　My advice would be: come with an open mind and patience. Living in a new culture is challenging, but Busan offers many opportunities for growth and inspiration. Learn the Korean language as much as possible because knowing Korean will make both daily life and studies much easier. 　Also, don't hesitate to share your own culture because Busan is a city that values international exchange. Finally, try to connect your personal experiences with your academic projects; it will make your research meaningful and unique.Busan Tube: Click

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• An inviting fortress atop Busan's tallest mountain 　The YOLO Galmaetgil Trails invite visitors to experience scenic hikes along the city's natural and cultural resources.　"YOLO" reflects both "you only live once" and the local dialect for "come here," blending global and regional meaning. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Geumjeongsanseong Fortress■ YOLO Route 10　Route 10, fondly known as "Picnic at Geumjeongsanseong Fortress," is a scenic 10-kilometer trail stretching from Gupo Station to Geumjeongsanseong Village. Geumbit Noeul Bridge　The first highlight is Geumbit Noeul Bridge, where fiery skies dip over the Nakdonggang River. By day, it links bustling Gupo Market to tranquil Hwamyeong Eco Park; by night, colorful lights create a romantic backdrop for evening strolls.Hwamyeong Eco ParkThe glasshouse at Hwamyeong Arboretum　Hwamyeong Eco Park shines in autumn, with rows of golden-brown metasequoias, and swaying silver grass. Nearby, Hwamyeong Arboretum － Busan's first public arboretum － displays themed gardens and seasonal wildflowers.Geumjeongsanseong Village　The route continues to the western gate of Geumjeongsanseong Fortress, Korea's largest mountain stronghold, before ending at Geumjeongsanseong Village. Here, visitors savor local delicacies like black goat bulgogi and Sanseong Makgeolli.YOLO Guide : Click
• Lights! Coastline! Action! 　Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails invite visitors to enjoy life through scenic hikes along the city's natural and cultural resources.　"YOLO" reflects both "you only live once" and the local dialect for "come here," blending global and regional meaning. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Grab a blanket and enjoy a free movie on Gwangan Beach.The iconic nightscape of Marine City.Fun photo opportunities await on Haeundae Cine Road.Movie screenings at Millak Ocean Cinema cost ￦3,000.Millak Waterside Park is a hot place to enjoy a cool evening.■ YOLO Route 4　Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Route 4 offers trekkers a cinematic landscape befitting its "Centum Movie Night" nickname. Stretching 4.5 kilometers along the coast, the trail is best enjoyed at night when the city, sea and sky create the perfect mise-en-scene.　The plot begins at The Bay 101, where Marine City's skyscrapers glow in mirrored reflections on the water to create an iconic nightscape. From there, the path leads to Haeundae Cine Road, an open-air gallery celebrating Korean cinema with film-inspired art and photographs.　Continuing past the Suyeongman Bay Yachting Center, walkers arrive at Millak Waterside Park, a popular spot to relax and view the Gwangandaegyo Bridge. Here, Millak Ocean Cinema stages outdoor movie screenings on weekends, with a floating screen set against the bridge's dazzling backdrop. Nearby, Gwangalli Beach Cinema offers free Friday night films by the sea.Learn more : Click
• Seaside serenity on the Blue Line 　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.A retro train, lush forest and ocean views can be found on YOLO Galmaetgil Route 3.Songjeong Beach is the birthplace of Korea's surf culture.A wooden deck runs along Busan돴s eastern coast, side-by-side with trains from the Haeundae Blue Line.Haewol Observatory.Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory.■ YOLO Route 3　For a refreshing seaside stroll with sweeping ocean views, YOLO Galmaetgil Route 3 offers one of Busan's most picturesque escapes. This scenic 5.8-kilometer route stretches from Songjeong Station to Mipo Station, hugging the city's eastern coastline. 　A 10-minute walk from Songjeong Station leads to Songjeong Beach. This sandy playground is a favorite year-round, but it buzzes  in August with sunseekers and surfers alike. 　From the beach, trekkers follow a wooden deck that winds along the coast. With brilliant blue water on one side and lush greenery on the other, it's easy to appreciate this urban paradise.　Midway through, take a breather at the Cheongsapo Daritdol or Haewol observatories. Their reinforced glass floors offer a heart-pounding view of the waves crashing below. With the sea swirling beneath your feet, either place offers a memorable spot to take a picture and rest before finishing the trail.YOLO Guide : Click

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