News
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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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LIV Golf Korea is coming to Busan
LIV Golf events draw large crowds thanks to their mix of high-level competition, dynamic entertainment and family-friendly atmospheres. Some of the world's greatest golfers will tee off in Busan when LIV Golf lands at Asiad Country Club from May 28 to 31. The four-day event introduces the Asiad Country Club as an official venue on the LIV Golf calendar. The course inked a multi-year deal with the upstart professional golf tour. Launched in 2022 and financed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has rapidly established itself as the no. 1 rival to the PGA Tour. The league is lauded for its massive prize purses, high-energy shotgun-start format and a star-studded field that draws some of the biggest names in the sport, including Phil Mickelson, Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson. Unlike the PGA Tour, LIV Golf is structured around 13 teams of four players, which compete for both individual and team awards in every tournament. One of LIV Golf's most distinctive traits is its blend of elite competition and live entertainment. Last year's Korean edition in Incheon featured headline performances by K-pop heavyweights including G-Dragon, IVE, Dynamic Duo and Gummy. This year's Busan concert lineup has yet to be announced, but anticipation is already running high. The format has consistently resonated with younger audiences, and its appeal goes well beyond traditional golf fans. The Adelaide event in February drew a record 115,000 visitors over four days, underscoring the huge crowds LIV events can attract. The economic upside is equally impressive. The upcoming LIV Golf New Orleans event in June is projected to generate around $40 million in local economic impact and create more than 1,150 jobs - a promising indicator of what Busan can expect. A Busan City official welcomed the news, noting that the event presents a prime opportunity to showcase the city's culture and hospitality to a global audience, with hopes that players, fans, and visitors alike will take the chance to explore everything Busan has to offer. Tickets are available for individual days or for the whole event at (events.livgolf.com)
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Busan leverages global recognition to expand tourism source: visit busanExpedia, the internet travel agency, recently named Busan as the “best-value overseas destination” for Japan’s Golden Week. This annual holiday period runs from April 29 to May 6 this year.The designation is the latest endorsement from a global platform to praise Busan’s tourism offerings. Busan is the second-most popular international destination for Taiwanese travelers on KKday and is one of Trip.com Group’s “2026 Top 100 Global Destinations.” Busan was also recently recognized by Airbnb as a top destination for Gen Z travelers.In response, Busan is ramping up its tourism promotion in Japanese and Chinese markets ahead of the peak spring travel period. The city will host “K-Tourism Roadshows” in Osaka and Tokyo this April to showcase its unique culinary and wellness offerings. In addition, officials will run K-beauty and aesthetic campaigns, specifically aimed at women in the greater Tokyo metropolitan area.Furthermore, Busan has enlisted popular travel influencers to promote linked tourism routes between Taipei, Busan and Japan. This effort will explore the potential of broader regional tourism products and the expansion of repeat visitor demand. The city is also collaborating with airlines to promote new travel corridors: Busan-Nagasaki and Busan-Hiroshima-Cheongju.Officials are also developing special-interest tourism (STI) products, such as Geumjeongsan trekking, traditional gastronomy experiences, and eco-tours in West Busan's ecological parks, to attract Japanese tourists.Efforts to capture the Chinese market tap into growing demand for outdoor and experiential travel. Promotional campaigns aimed at Chinese travelers highlight Busan’s cycling paths, hiking trails and hands-on culinary experiences.<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>destination: 명소 designation: 지정 endorsement: 지지 culinary: 미식의 broader: 넓은 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Enjoy Busan
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May you bloom and grow forever ②
source: Busan Tourism Archive🏵 Daejeo Ecological Park Located on the west side of the Nakdong River, Daejeo Ecological Park boasts Busan's largest canola flower field. Swelling yellow waves create an indelible landscape, unique to this season. When the timing is right, the combination of yellow canola and pink cherry blossoms creates an almost otherworldly, enchanting scene. *Address: 1-5 Daejeo 1-dong, Gangseo-gusource: Busan Tourism Archive🌸 Busan Democracy ParkDemocracy Park is beloved for its double cherry blossoms, which peak a week or two later than standard varieties. Known for their voluminous, multi-layered pink petals, the blossoms set a stunning contrast against panoramic views of Busan Port - cementing the park's reputation as an attractive destination for capturing spring at its peak.*Address: 9 Minjugongwon-gil, Jung-gusource: Busan Tourism Archive🌹 Hwamyeong Eco Park Tulip FieldThe tulip field, located across from the P1 parking lot of Hwamyeong Ecological Park, will instantly capture your eyes with its vivid pink, red, purple, orange, yellow and white hues. Known for its great accessibility, this spot is a favorite for families who want to admire the blooms up close along broad walking paths.*Address: 1718-17 Hwamyeong-dong, Buk-gu <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>canola flower: 유채꽃 reputation: 명성 attractive: 매력적인 accessibility: 접근성Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Spring healing at the 22nd Busan Urban Agriculture Expo
From April 9 to 12, the 22nd Busan Urban Agriculture Expo will transform Daejeo Ecological Park into a vibrant sanctuary of growth and healing. Set against the park’s iconic canola flower fields, the event invites visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing comfort of nature and the intriguing world of urban agriculture, all wrapped in the seasonal glamour of spring. Under the theme “Healing Busan: Therapeutic Agriculture in the City,” this year’s expo features an array of nature-inspired programs. By highlighting the profound connection between nature and well-being, the event aims to showcase the public value of agriculture through stunning floral exhibitions, performances, and hands-on activities.While strolling through the massive yellow waves of canola flowers is a seasonal highlight of Daejeo Ecological Park, the expo offers so much more. Key highlights include healing gardens vibrantly adorned across nine distinct themes, and a barrier-free garden that offers an inclusive planting experience for everyone. Visitors can even check their stress and depression levels on-site or participate in interactive sessions such as floral arrangement classes and vegetable planting. For a more mindful escape, the “Healing Yoga & Meditation” program offers a novel outdoor experience, allowing you to recharge your mind amidst a gentle spring breeze. This special session is limited to 100 participants on a first-come, first-served basis, with pre-registration and a 10,000 won fee required, so early application is highly recommended. Beyond delightful programs, the expo offers a glimpse into the future of agriculture. Industry insiders and curious visitors alike can explore cutting-edge drone cultivation techniques and smart farming systems. A variety of modern agricultural machinery will be on display, alongside tractor and cultivator simulation sessions that offer unique entertainment for the general public and valuable insights for industry professionals. The event also serves as a gateway to Busan’s local specialties, including the city’s premium rice variety “Hwanggeum Yechan,” the “Baekgang” chrysanthemum, and the nationally renowned Daejeo salty tomatoes. Since its debut in 2005 as Korea’s first event of its kind, the Busan Urban Agriculture Expo has spent 22 years redefining how agriculture composes and shapes our daily lives through innovative visions. Paired perfectly with the mild weather that awakens the earth, this expo is the ultimate destination to soak up nature’s quiet yet substantial gifts—offering a soul-soothing opportunity for every urbanite to reconnect with the natural world. For more details, please visit the official website of the Busan Urban Agriculture Expo at the link below. ※ Busan Urban Agriculture Expo, April 8 to 12Daejeo Ecological Park: 1-5, Daejeo 1-dong, Gangseo-guGoogle Map: Click ◎ Website: Click ◎ Apply for “Healing Yoga & Meditation” program: Click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>transform: ~로 바뀌다 immerse: 몰입하다 profound: 깊은 massive: 거대한 depression: 우울 agricultural: 농업의 soak: 흠뻑 젖다Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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May you bloom and grow forever: 9 spots to cure your spring fever
Canopies of cherry blossoms are a welcome sign of spring, like the ones shown here at Samnak Ecological Park in Sasang-gu District.April doesn't ease into spring - it arrives in full bloom. Busan welcomes the season with a palette of fascinating colors and the fresh scent of blossoms. Shedding the heavy coats that warmed us through the winter, it's finally time to step out, embrace fresh air and capture memories against a pastel backdrop.■Yeongdo Dongsam Haesucheon Stream Dongsam Haesucheon Stream is a charming, hidden gem in Yeongdo-gu District. The cherry-blossom-lined walkway follows the stream as it flows into the sea, creating the perfect backdrop for your spring edition photos. *Address: 1126-9, Dongsam-dong, Yeongdo-gu■Oncheoncheon Stream At this beloved spring hot spot, tree branches burst with cherry blossom petals, forming a natural canopy over the stream. Walking along the water and relaxing at one of the charming cafes in the area are favored spring pastimes. *Address: 451 Oncheoncheon-ro, Dongnae-gu ■Samnak Ecological Park Running along the Nakdonggang River, this is one of Busan's most iconic cherry blossom destinations. Seemingly endless tunnels of trees shower walkers with petals. It's the sweetest escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering an enchanting and romantic atmosphere.*Address: 29-36 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu■Dalmajigil Road Perched above the vast blue ocean, Haeundae Dalmajigil Road offers a breathtaking walk that captures the best of Busan: hills, sea, and cherry blossoms all in one place. The area is also dotted with buzzy restaurants and cafes, making it easy to blend a nature walk with a bit of gourmet exploration.*Address: 190 Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae-gu■Busan Democracy Park Democracy Park is beloved for its double cherry blossoms, which peak a week or two later than standard varieties. Known for their voluminous, multi-layered pink petals, the blossoms set a stunning contrast against panoramic views of Busan Port - cementing the park's reputation as an attractive destination for capturing spring at its peak.*Address: 9 Minjugongwon-gil, Jung-gu■Nakdonggang Riverside 30-ri Spanning 12 kilometers, or 30-ri in traditional Korean measurement, from Daejeo to Myeongji, this path invites visitors to enjoy a long stroll under a tunnel of falling pink petals. *Address: 1-20 Daejeo 1-dong, Gangseo-gu■Daejeo Ecological Park Located on the west side of the Nakdong River, Daejeo Ecological Park boasts Busan's largest canola flower field. Swelling yellow waves create an indelible landscape, unique to this season. When the timing is right, the combination of yellow canola and pink cherry blossoms creates an almost otherworldly, enchanting scene. *Address: 1-5 Daejeo 1-dong, Gangseo-gu■Oryukdo Sunrise Park Oryukdo Sunrise Park offers stunning vistas of the Oryukdo Islets, enhanced by vivid canola and narcissus flowers. The scenery provides the perfect natural frame for any photo. *Address: 137 Oryukdo-ro, Nam-gu■Hwamyeong Eco Park Tulip Field The tulip field, located across from the P1 parking lot of Hwamyeong Ecological Park, will instantly capture your eyes with its vivid pink, red, purple, orange, yellow and white hues. Known for its great accessibility, this spot is a favorite for families who want to admire the blooms up close along broad walking paths.*Address: 1718-17 Hwamyeong-dong, Buk-gu
Food
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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
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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
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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
Life
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Taste of Busan 2026
The latest edition of Taste of Busan is now available. This comprehensive food guide spotlights must-visit restaurants, cafes and bakeries around the city.This year’s edition features 146 establishments and is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. More than just a directory, the guidebook spotlights Busan’s local food ecosystem, illuminating the entire journey from production to consumption. Through chef interviews and profiles of local producers, readers can discover the deep-rooted values and history of Busan’s culinary traditions.The content is further enriched by Busan Food (B-FOOD) Recipe Season 3, a collection of recipes made with local ingredients.To ensure a seamless experience for global visitors, Busan City has enhanced its digital-based language support. The guidebook includes QR codes for multi-language menus at 50 supported restaurants. By simply scanning a code, guests can browse menus in seven languages: English, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Russian and Arabic.Taste of Busan 2026 is available online via the city's official tourism portal, Visit Busan. Physical copies can be picked up free of charge at select restaurants, tourist information centers, consulates, the Busan Tourism Organization, district offices, and major transit hubs, including train stations, hotels, and Gimhae International Airport.◎ 2026 Taste of Busan: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>available: 가능한 production: 생산 consumption: 소비 ingredient: 재료Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Help make Busan better by building bridges
source: BGCFJoin the Busan International Residents Connector program and help the city integrate practical feedback from its global community! Through April 20, Busan City and the Busan Global City Foundation are recruiting participants for the program’s second cohort.Launched in 2025, the Busan International Residents Connector program engages international residents to enhance local policies. By sharing insights into the daily challenges that often go unnoticed during the policy-making process, participants help foster a more livable environment for everyone. This immersive program aims to spark innovative ideas, ultimately building a foreign-friendly, interactive community for Busan’s sustainable growth.Selected participants, referred to as “Connectors,” will serve as a vital communication channel, sharing local news and community issues through the lens of a foreign resident. They will identify areas for improvement to help the city become a truly inclusive global hub. Furthermore, Connectors will help the international community stay informed by promoting local events and essential news. In particular, as each participant is assigned to a specific district to bridge local and foreign residents, the program is expected to offer tangible benefits to the community.The program runs for approximately one year, from May 14 to April 14, 2027. Connectors will receive various benefits, including activity allowances, volunteer hours and opportunities for media interviews or outstanding participant awards. Any international resident aged 18 or older with a long-term visa valid for more than 90 days is eligible to join the project. Strong Korean proficiency is required. Applications will be accepted through the My Busan website until April 20. Following documentation screening, selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews, with the final result announced on May 8.※ Recruitment for the Busan International Residents Connector program, until April 20◎ Application link: Click ◎ Inquiries: Busan Global City Foundation: 051-711-6851 / sieon@bgcf.or.kr<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>integrate: 통합시키다 practical: 실용적인 sustainable: 지속가능한 vital: 중요한 improvement: 발전 bridge: 잇다 proficiency: 유창성 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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The 23rd BIPAF: From AI battles to street-level showmanship
source: BIPAFFrom May 9 to 17, the 23rd Busan International Performing Arts Festival returns with a packed lineup of global and local performances. Held across major venues in the city, this year’s festival explores the theme “Difference and Repetition,” highlighting how the same story can unfold in new ways on every stage.The festival opens on May 9 at 6 p.m. with a showing of “AlphaGo_Lee: Theory of Sacrifice” at the Busan Cinema Center’s Haneulyeon Theatre. Presented by Poland’s Studio Teatrgaleria, the production is inspired by the landmark 2016 Go match between Sedol Lee and AlphaGo, an artificial intelligence system developed by Google. As society becomes increasingly driven by AI algorithms, the performance raises an important question: What are we giving up in the name of convenience?The National Theatre Budapest will close the festival on May 17 at 6 p.m. with a performance of “Merry-Go-Round” at Haneulyeon Theatre. Based on the 1956 film of the same name, the performance combines Hungarian folk dance and live music to depict rural life and social dynamics. Beneath its lively rhythms, it explores the tension between individual desire and community expectations.As always, BIPAF offers the chance to experience a wide range of performance styles, formats, and perspectives. “K-Stage” spotlights Korean productions, while “Global Networks” features international performance art troupes. Meanwhile, “Dynamic Street” transforms public spaces into stages where audiences can witness amazing juggling and acrobatic acts. For those looking to more actively participate, “10-Minute Open Play” invites people to share their stories and talents with audiences.※ The 23rd Busan International Performing Arts Festival (BIPAF), May 9 to 17◎ Website: Click ◎ Ticketing Guide: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>convenience: 편리함 combine: 합치다 depict: 묘사하다 expectation: 기대 perspective: 관점Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Views
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[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.
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[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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[SNAPSHOT BUSAN] The people who start Busan's day
Busan remains where it is, yet the city wears countless layers of captivating moments. A fleeting slice of time may pass quickly, but it leaves a deep trace of the city's day behind. "Snapshot Busan" finds a tranquil angle on these scenes and captures them. In this edition, we turn our gaze toward morning people, those who breathe life into the city. Even before the sun rises, Busan's "morning larks" are already busy working, waking the city with their vibrant energy. These unheralded citizens rise early to make sure the rest of us have everything we need to make it through the day.Songdo Beach, Korea's oldest beach, has welcomed countless people for generations. like the grandmother and granddaughter in the photo, who are enjoying their morning exercise.Busan Cooperative Fish Market buzzes with energy from dawn.Baristas around the city make espresso shots that power Busan's labor force.

