News
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Explore East Busan with the BTO
Open air seating on a Busan City Tour Bus. On May 28, the Busan Tourism Organization launched a new City Tour option called the East Busan Theme. This route lets visitors explore iconic attractions in the eastern part of the city, including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Imnang Beach. Each tour bus accommodates up to 40 passengers, with a minimum of 8 required for the tour to operate. The route runs once daily from Wednesday to Sunday. Departing from Busan Station at 10:10 a.m., the bus makes its way through a series of scenic spots before returning to the station at 6 p.m. Along the way, passengers can enjoy East Busan's charming waterside attractions, including Busan Harbor Bridge, Gwangalli Beach, Busan Cine Road, Mipo, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Daebyeon Port and Imnang Beach. While this new route may seem like the return of the City Tour Bus's Blue Line, it offers a more focused and exclusive experience, operating only for passengers booked on the day. Please note that the itinerary may be subject to change due to unexpected on-site conditions. Ticket prices are 30,000 won for adults and 25,000 won for children under 13. Children under 48 months ride free of charge. For details and reservations, visit the Busan City Tour website.Website : https://citytourbusan.com/en2/08theme/02.phpEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
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Starry Sea River Dinner Cruise sets sail
Get an up close look at the Diamond Bridge. Looking for a magical way to spend a summer evening in Busan? The Starry Sea Busan River Dinner Cruise offers the perfect escape, blending scenic views, music and local flavors into one unforgettable night. Running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through December, the cruise lets passengers enjoy a relaxing ride on the Suyeong River while taking in stunning views of the nighttime skyline. There are three cruise options:●River Dinner Cruise: Departs at 6 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays, 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays●Sunset Dinner Cruise: Departs at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays, 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays●Moonlight Dinner Cruise: Departs at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays Each cruise includes a light meal featuring delicacies from local bakeries and cafes. Passengers on Friday's Moonlight Cruise can also enjoy live music and fireworks. Extra services onboard include luggage storage, Polaroid photo sessions, free photo printing and bicycle tours around nearby APEC Naru Park. Tickets range from 35,000 to 55,000 won per adult, depending on the season and departure. Check out the official Starry Night in Busan Instagram page (@starry_night_busan.kr) for bookings and the latest updates.※Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/starry_night_busan.krEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
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Busan rises to 12th in latest Smart Centres Index
Busan's evolution into a leading commerical and finance hub starts in Centum City, home to Busan's ICT and digital innovation centers. Busan has achieved its highest-ever ranking on the Smart Centres Index, placing 12th out of 76 cities worldwide. Published in May by London-based think tank Z/Yen, the index measures the technological and innovation capabilities of major commercial and financial hubs. On the SCI 11, Busan stands as the second-highest ranked city in Asia, having surpassed Hong Kong and trailing just behind Singapore. Busan is the top-ranked city in Korea, with Seoul ranked 33rd overall. Since debuting at 62nd in 2021, Busan has climbed steadily, rising to 41st in late 2021, 22nd in 2022, 15th in 2023 and 13th in 2024. This consistent year-over-year improvement, without setbacks, underscores Busan's commitment to becoming a leading global smart city. Driven by the Digital Economy Office at City Hall, Busan is integrating advanced digital technologies across key industries. The city is actively developing ecosystems in artificial intelligence, big data, quantum computing, robotics and biotechnology. These efforts aim to accelerate industrial transformation and boost the city's economic future. More growth is expected. Significant initiatives include the Future Industry Innovation Cluster, the Centum 2 Special Zone, digital twin and cloud-based pilot programs, and new research hubs for AI, quantum science and smart healthcare. In addition, the city plans to train 10,000 information and communications technology specialists through the Busan Digital Innovation Academy by 2026. With continued investment in digital infrastructure and innovation, Busan is positioning itself to break into the SCI top 10 and further strengthen its role in the global economy.Editor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
Enjoy Busan
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Old-school vibes citywide on the Retro Night Tour
source: visitbusanEmbracing the spirit of summer vacation, the Busan Tourism Organization has launched a special nighttime bus tour program titled “Retro Night Tour.” Running every Friday and Saturday from July 25 to Aug. 30, the tour captures Busan’s scenic nighttime views with a nostalgic twist.Based on the current nighttime route, this program offers a unique experience with retro-inspired décor and lively DJ performances reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s. Passengers can enjoy an immersive, multisensory journey that entertains both the eyes and ears.The route features some of Busan’s most iconic nighttime landmarks, including Busanhangdaegyo Bridge, Gwangandaegyo Bridge and Haeundae Beach. The open-top, double-decker bus offers an unobstructed view of the city lights. Onboard, a DJ keeps the energy high by sharing passengers’ stories and playing requested songs, further enhancing the festive vibe that pairs perfectly with the warm summer air.Retro-style lights and props create a nostalgic ambiance, transporting riders back to a bygone era. The tour includes two stops at Gwangalli and Songdo beaches, where passengers can enjoy a brief seaside stroll under the night sky. At Songdo Beach, a small event adds a touch of fun and encourages active engagement from participants. The bus departs from Busan Station at around 7 p.m. and returns at 10 p.m. Ticket prices are 25,000 won for adults and 15,000 won for children. Kids under 48 months ride free of charge. For details and reservations, visit the Busan City Tour website. Story submissions and song requests can be made in advance online or on-site on the day of the tour.※ Busan Retro Night Tour, every Friday and Saturday from July 25 to Aug. 30◎ Information: Click ◎ Reservation: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>embrace: 받아들이다 reminiscent: ~을 회상하는 immersive: 몰입형의 multisensory: 다중 감각의 entertain: 즐겁게하다 iconic: 상징적인 ambiance: 분위기 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Tour de Busan: 2025 Seven Bridge Tour
source: https://busan7bridges.com/Calling all cycling fans! The 2025 Seven Bridge Tour: Riding in Busan will take place on Sunday, Sept. 21, offering riders a rare chance to explore Busan’s seaside, mountains, rivers and cityscape from the saddle.This non-competitive cycling event runs from 7 to 11 a.m., taking participants on a thrilling journey across bridges and through tunnels on routes typically closed to bicycles.Choose Your ChallengeCyclists start at BEXCO in Haeundae-gu District and can choose between two courses:1) Chil Chil Course (77km): BEXCO → Gwangandaegyo Bridge → Sinsundaejihachado Underpass → Busanhangdaegyo Bridge → Namhangdaegyo Bridge → Cheonma Tunnel → Jangpyeongjihachado Underpass → Eulsukdodaegyo Bridge → turn around at Maekdo Ecological Park → return to Gwangandaegyo Bridge.2) Sam Sam Course (33km): BEXCO → Gwangandaegyo Bridge → Sinsundaejihachado Underpass → Busanhangdaegyo Bridge → Namhangdaegyo Bridge → turn around at Cheonma Tunnel → return to Gwangandaegyo Bridge.Whether you're pushing your endurance or just out for a scenic spin, both courses offer an unforgettable way to experience Busan by bike.Registration Details• Open to adults 19 and over (minors are not permitted, even with a guardian)• Up to 3,000 riders will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis• Electric, motorized or brakeless (fixed-gear) bicycles are not allowedRegistration opens at 2 p.m. on July 22 via Yes24. The entrance fee is 100,000 won per person. All riders will receive either a commemorative backpack or a short-sleeved jersey as a gift.※ 2025 Seven Bridge Tour: Riding in Busan, Sept. 21◎ Website: https://busan7bridges.com/◎ Tickets:- 77km Course: https://ticket.yes24.com/Special/54587- 33km Course: https://ticket.yes24.com/Special/54582<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>explore: 탐험하다 saddle: 안장 endurance: 인내 scenic: 경치가 좋은 permit: 허가하다 guardian: 보호자 commemorative: 기념적인Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Cirque du Soleil brings ‘Kooza’ to Busan
source: Mast InternationalCirque du Soleil returns to Busan with “Kooza,” from Aug. 21 to Sept. 28. Performances will take place at the Big Top circus tent next to Shinsegae Centum City.With “Kooza,” audiences can expect high-flying acrobatics, breathtaking stunts, whimsical characters and lavish costumes set to original and inspiring music. The show has been hailed as one of Cirque du Soleil’s most vibrant and dynamic productions, with nail-biting acts that leave audiences on the edge of their seats.“Kooza” is suitable for ages 5 and up. The performance is 125 minutes long and includes a 25-minute intermission. Tickets range from 80,000 to 320,000 won and can be purchased through Yes24 and Interpark. Discounts are available for children, individuals with disabilities and National Merit honorees. Wheelchair users are kindly advised to check ticket availability by phone in advance.※ Cirque du Soleil presents “Kooza,” from Aug. 21 to Sept. 28◎ Big Top: Outdoor parking lot of the Shinsegae Department Store, Centum City ◎ Address: 35 Centum nam-daero, Haeundae-gu◎ Inquiry: 02-541-6236◎ Tickets: - Interpark: https://tickets.interpark.com/goods/25003142- Yes24: https://ticket.yes24.com/Perf/53669<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>audience: 관객 expect: 기대하다 whimsical: 엉뚱한 lavish: 풍성한 hail: 묘사하다 National Merit honoree: 국가유공자 availability: 가능성Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
Food
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Bite Into Busan ② Puffer Fish and Eel
"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. In this edition, we dive into the best dishes to eat to stay energized during Busan's hot and humid summer. A nutrient-rich meal can make all the difference when the heat wears you down. Rebuild your stamina with local favorites like "bokguk," or puffer fish soup, and savory grilled freshwater eel, foods known for their revitalizing power. 🐡 Kumsu Bokguk, Haeundae Main Branch 금수복국해운대본점For over half a century, Kumsu Bokguk in Haeundae-gu District has set the gold standard for puffer fish cuisine. As the flagship location of a renowned chain with outposts nationwide, this legendary eatery has built its reputation on tradition, quality and safety. ○Address: 23 Jungdong 1-ro 43beon-gil, Haeundae-gu○Hours: Open 24 hours every day.○Menu: Eunbokguk (silver puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦15,000/￦16,000. Milbokguk (green puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦20,000/￦21,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.🍱 Tokyo Babsang 동경밥상At Tokyo Babsang, Chef-owner Tae-woo Kim brings a refined vision of Japanese grilled eel to the shores of Gwangalli Beach. After years of training at Jubako, an esteemed Tokyo restaurant founded in 1790, Kim returned to Korea to open this intimate eatery dedicated to the art of eel. His dedication shows in every bite, from the meticulous charcoal grilling to the silky glaze of sweet soy sauce.The restaurant's signature dishes, "unaju" and "hitsumabushi," showcase regional eel traditions from Tokyo and Nagoya. Whether you choose unaju, with whole fillets served over rice, or hitsumabushi, which is enjoyed in multiple stages with different toppings and broth, each dish offers a harmonious balance of textures - crispy on the outside, tender and juicy within.○Address: 34-6 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu○Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. ○Menu: Unaju ￦43,000. Hitsumabushi ￦38,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus🐟 Shunsai Kubo 슌사이쿠보 Shunsai Kubo is a popular destination for hitsumabushi, the beloved Nagoya-style grilled eel rice bowl. Japan-trained Chef Jae-wook Lee carefully grills each piece of fish over charcoal while brushing them with a house-made sauce that enhances eel's natural richness. The restaurant is also popular with families as it offers a dedicated children's menu.○Address: 17 Yangdal-ro 4beon-gil, Buk-gu○Hours: Open from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 40 minutes before closing. Closed on Mondays.○Menu: Hitsumabushi ￦39,000, Salmon rice bowl ￦17,500○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>nutrient-rich: 영양소가 풍부한 puffer fish: 복어 eel: 장어 revitalize: 재활성화하다 flagship: 본점 reputation: 명성 intimate: 친숙한 crispy: 바삭바삭한 tender: 부드러운 enhance: 강화하다 richness: 풍부함Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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The Michelin Guide to surviving Busan's hot and humid summer
"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. In this edition, we dive into the best dishes to eat to stay energized during Busan's hot and humid summer. A nutrient-rich meal can make all the difference when the heat wears you down. Rebuild your stamina with local favorites like "bokguk," or puffer fish soup, and savory grilled freshwater eel, foods known for their revitalizing power. Bokguk makes for a light and refreshing summer meal.Kumsu Bokguk's steamed puffer fish has a subtle, slightly sweet flavor with a firm yet tender texture. ■Kumsu Bokguk, Haeundae Main Branch 금수복국해운대본점 For over half a century, Kumsu Bokguk in Haeundae-gu District has set the gold standard for puffer fish cuisine. As the flagship location of a renowned chain with outposts nationwide, this legendary eatery has built its reputation on tradition, quality and safety. ○Address: 23 Jungdong 1-ro 43beon-gil, Haeundae-gu○Hours: Open 24 hours every day.○Menu: Eunbokguk (silver puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦15,000/￦16,000. Milbokguk (green puffer fish soup) clear/spicy broth ￦20,000/￦21,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menus.The luxurious unaju bento box at Tokyo Babsang. ■Tokyo Babsang 동경밥상 At Tokyo Babsang, Chef-owner Tae-woo Kim brings a refined vision of Japanese grilled eel to the shores of Gwangalli Beach. After years of training at Jubako, an esteemed Tokyo restaurant founded in 1790, Kim returned to Korea to open this intimate eatery dedicated to the art of eel. His dedication shows in every bite, from the meticulous charcoal grilling to the silky glaze of sweet soy sauce. The restaurant's signature dishes, "unaju" and "hitsumabushi," showcase regional eel traditions from Tokyo and Nagoya. Whether you choose unaju, with whole fillets served over rice, or hitsumabushi, which is enjoyed in multiple stages with different toppings and broth, each dish offers a harmonious balance of textures - crispy on the outside, tender and juicy within.○Address: 34-6 Namcheonbada-ro, Suyeong-gu○Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 30 minutes before closing. ○Menu: Unaju ￦43,000. Hitsumabushi ￦38,000.○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menusThe hitsumabushi at Shunsai Kubo comes with various toppings and a savory broth. ■Shunsai Kubo 슌사이쿠보 Shunsai Kubo is a popular destination for hitsumabushi, the beloved Nagoya-style grilled eel rice bowl. Japan-trained Chef Jae-wook Lee carefully grills each piece of fish over charcoal while brushing them with a house-made sauce that enhances eel's natural richness. The restaurant is also popular with families as it offers a dedicated children's menu.○Address: 17 Yangdal-ro 4beon-gil, Buk-gu○Hours: Open from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. Last order is 40 minutes before closing. Closed on Mondays.○Menu: Hitsumabushi ￦39,000, Salmon rice bowl ￦17,500○Available: Parking, takeout, foreign language menusEditor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
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Seafood and smoke: Japanese fine dining finds a home in Busan
"Bite Into Busan" is a monthly celebration of the city's restaurants. Each featured spot is listed in the Michelin Guide and Taste of Busan, the city's official gourmet guidebook, and is known for its signature dishes. Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Mori. (Instagram : Click) ■Kaiseki at Mori Kaiseki is Japan's haute cuisine, a multicourse celebration of seasonal ingredients. Mori, one of Busan's standout kaiseki spots, is a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates local seafood and produce. With experience gained from training in Japan, Chef Wan-gyu Kim's menu is a masterclass in balance and taste.＊Address: 2F #2-4, Pale De Cz, 24 298beon-gil, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu＊Hours: 7 to 11 p.m., closed on Mondays.＊Price: Kaiseki course ￦210,000 per personA dish from the omakase menu at Zero Base. (Catch Table : Click)■Omakase at Zero Base Omakase, meaning "I'll leave it up to you," invites diners to entrust their meals to the chef, who creates a personalized experience based on available ingredients. At Zero Base, diners are in the expert hands of Chef Byeong-chan Yu. Chef Yu's refined techniques and creativity turn local seafood into dishes with a certain "je ne sais quoi" that will have you thinking of them long after your last bite.＊Address: 202, 17 Millak-ro 33beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., closed on Sundays. ＊Price: Omakase ￦150,000 per personSpanish mackerel with pesto from Eutteum Iroribata. (Instagram : Click) ■Iroribata at Eutteum Iroribata Iroribata is the art of open-fire grilling over a sunken hearth, which imbues fish, meat and vegetables with mouth-watering, smoky flavor. Chef Eutteum Jung shows off his mastery of this cooking style at his cozy restaurant in Namcheon-dong. The restaurant bears the imprint of Chef Jung's passion; dark stains on the walls reflect the years spent managing smoke and fire to perfect every dish. His signature dish is a grilled seaperch, a type of fatty white fish prized for its rich, buttery flavor. The row of whole fish roasting in front of the hearth makes an indelible image.＊Address: 1F, 20 Suyeong-ro 408beong-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: Open Monday to Thursday, 7 to 10 p.m.; Open at 5:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Closed on Sundays and the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month.＊Price: Omakase ￦100,000 per personVarious skewers at Yakitori Haegong. (Instagram : Click) ■Yakitori at Yakitori Haegong There are distinct pleasures one experiences when eating yakitori. The first is visual; watching the chef, fan in hand, labor over glowing embers of charcoal, moving and rotating skewers like a conductor leading an orchestra. The second is gustatory; perfectly cooked meat and vegetables, seasoned with smoke, salt and tare, a sweetned soy sauce. At Yakitori Haegong, the conductor is Chef Seunghyun Kim. Under his deft hands, all parts of a chicken sing; tender thigh meat, crispy wings, chewy hearts and the crunch of neck cartilage form a symphony of textures and flavors that merits an encore.＊Address: 1F, 30-5 Millakbondong-ro 19beon-gil, Suyeong-gu＊Hours: 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Closed on Sundays.＊Price: Omakase ￦59,000 per person ※ Note that restaurant information may be subject to change.
Life
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Two nights, two masters at Busan Concert Hall
source: gettyimageThis August, the Busan Concert Hall invites classical music lovers to indulge in “A Midsummer Piano Feast,” a two-part recital series that highlights the rare musical connection between mentor and protégé.Pianist Saehyun Kim, fresh off his victory at the 2025 Long-Thibaud Competition, will grace the stage. On the eve of his 18th birthday this past March, Kim won the First Grand Prize, the Audience Prize and the Press Jury Prize at the prestigious Paris-based competition.On Aug. 5 at 7:30 p.m., the teenage prodigy will grace the BCH stage with his immeasurable talent. Praised for his dynamic and emotional performances, Kim promises to captivate audiences with renditions of the works of Mozart, Faure and Chopin.Then, on Aug. 7 at 7:30 p.m., Kim’s mentor and internationally acclaimed pianist HaeSun Paik will return to Busan with a deeply personal recital. Titled “Homage to My Homeland,” her performance celebrates the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation.Paik, a revered figure in global piano circles and a longtime faculty member at the New England Conservatory in Boston, will present Beethoven’s “Les Aieux,” Juri Seo’s “La Primavera,” and selections from Bartok and Schumann.Tickets can be purchased through the official BCH website until three hours before each performance. ※ Piano Recitals at Busan Concert Hall, Aug. 5 and 7◎ Busan Concert Hall: 250 Dongpyeong-ro, Busanjin-gu◎ Tickets:- Pianist Saehyun Kim: Click - Pianist Haesun Paik: Click ◎ Inquiries: 051-640-8822<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>indulge: 탐닉하다 recital: 리사이틀(발표회) protégé: 후배, 제자 grace: ~을 빛내다 immeasurable: 헤아릴 수 없는 captivate: 마음을 사로잡다 rendition: 연주 revered: 존경받는 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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New music video shows love for Busan
Busan City has released the music video for its second new theme song, “Let’s Go to Busan,” on its official YouTube channel, BusanTube. To celebrate the launch, the city is hosting a special event where participants can post comments on the video to share their impressions of the video or personal stories related to Busan. The event runs until Aug. 10, and 60 heartfelt entries will be selected for prizes, which include gift certificates for Olive Young and Starbucks. With “tour” as its central theme, the song captures Busan’s unique charm through lighthearted melodies and romantic lyrics. It paints a vivid picture of the city’s natural beauty, featuring its stunning sea and mountains, as well as its rich cultural landscape. Written and composed by young local artists, the music video adds an extra layer of meaning by featuring non-professional actors, including everyday citizens and city government officials, who act out real stories collected from visitors to Busan. These heartfelt performances reflect the deep affection people have for the city, while showcasing some of Busan’s most beloved tourist spots and inspiring viewers to experience them in person.The video showcases over 20 scenic locations across the city, providing a rich sensory experience that is both visually and musically engaging. For anyone planning a trip to Busan, the video serves as an ideal travel guide. With over 2.9 million international visitors last year, a decade high, Busan is gaining recognition as a must-visit travel destination. This video goes beyond the city’s reputation as a summer hotspot, revealing its dynamic, year-round appeal: From cherry blossom-lined walkways in spring to vibrant cultural festivals and dazzling fireworks displays. Its inviting visuals and catchy melody suggest that Busan is the perfect getaway for everyone – solo travelers, couples, families, friends and even beloved pets. ※ “Let’s Go to Busan” MV Launch Event, until Aug. 10◎ MV: Click <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>release: 공개하다 launch: 출시 comment: 댓글 impression: 인상 landscape: 풍경 compose: 작곡하다 reflect: 반영하다 reputaion: 명성 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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We want to hear your story!
Whether it's a memorable experience, an episode from your travels around the city, or a small moment of everyday joy, we welcome anything you'd like to tell us about life in Busan.■ How to Participate◎ Who Can Join: Anyone living in Busan — citizens, students, and foreign residents alike◎ How to Submit: Use our online form (Naver or Google) or send an email to rtm1991@korea.kr - Naver Form : Click - Google Form : Click ◎ Period: until August 31. ◎ Perks: Selected stories will be published in Busan's English newspaper, in Daily Busan, and on the WordPress blog. Writers of selected entries will receive a writer’s fee and a small gift. - Busan’s English Newspaper: Click - Daily Busan: Click - WordPress: Click ■ Guidelines◎ Theme: Any personal story related to Busan◎ Length: Up to 300 words in English★ Writing Tips◎ Tell us what makes Busan special for you — your favorite café, your go-to walking route, or a simple moment that brightens your day.◎ If you’re an expat who has lived in Busan for a while, we’d love to hear why you came — and why you stayed.
Views
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Life inside a painting
Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources and cultural offerings. YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that life should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO invites visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Golden light pours into the sea at Dadaepo Beach, turning sunsets and sunrises into breathtaking natural masterpieces. Saha-Gu District Office■ YOLO Route 7 Every sunset paints a picture, but summer sunsets stir something deeper. The sun lingers, reluctant to hand the sky over to the moon. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors － an Impressionist masterpiece in motion. Summer is nature's showiest season, saturating the world in color and overwhelming the senses with dazzling skies. There is science behind this beauty; the warm, moisture-rich air scatters sunlight more dramatically, producing deeper, more vibrant hues. One of the best places to witness this evening spectacle is along YOLO Galmaetgil Route 7, on the western edge of Busan. The trail's riverside setting offers uninterrupted views of the sun sinking into the Nakdonggang River. Reflections shimmer on the water as the sky above shifts through a kaleidoscope of colors, making the entire walk feel like a living painting. The 7-kilometer path is smooth and well-maintained, with restrooms and rest stops along the way. It takes about an hour and 40 minutes to complete. The trail is ideal for a sunset stroll or a breezy bike ride. Highlights include Jangnim Port, where brightly painted buildings evoke the canals of Venice, earning it the nickname "Bunezia," a playful mash-up of "Busan" and "Venezia." Before reaching Dadaepo Beach, follow a short uphill path to Amisan Observatory. From this vantage point, the river, sea and sandbanks stretch out in a breathtaking panorama. Affectionately known as the "Sunset Picnic," YOLO Galmaetgil Route 7 captures the magic of summer in Busan. It's a reminder that the city offers more than vibrant markets and ocean views － it's also a place where the sky puts on a show.A Venice-like harborfront right here in Busan.The riverside path leading to Goninaru Rest Area.The incredible view from Amisan Observatory.YOLO Guide : https://www.busan.go.kr/galmaetgil_eng/trip0207Editor: Ji Minkyeom, Song SoomiCopy Editors: Anton J. Mapoy, Ryu Hyoseung
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Yeongdo: Shipyards and street art
Busan's YOLO Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources and cultural offerings, featuring scenic beachside walks and gentle mountain climbs. YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.Vessels entering and departing Busan Port add to Yeongdo's unique vibe. Yeongdo Island is fast becoming a must-visit for travelers exploring Busan. Located at the southern edge of the city, this scenic district is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The best way to take it all in? Follow YOLO Galmaetgil Route 6.The weekly lifting of Yeongdodaegyo Bridge never gets old. This 10.9-kilometer trail begins at Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Korea's first drawbridge, built in 1934. Every Saturday at 2 p.m., the bridge lifts in a much-loved ritual that draws crowds. Crossing into Yeongdo, visitors will reach Kangkangee Arts Village, a ship-repair hub turned cultural enclave. The name comes from the "kang-kang" sound of hammers striking metal resonating from the repair docks. Today, murals and art installations mingle with gritty shipyards, giving the area a distinct industrial charm.The Jeoryeong Coastal Walk leads to Taejongdae, another beloved area on Busan's southern coast. Continuing south leads to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Once a shantytown, it's now a vibrant community of cafes, galleries and indie bookstores in refurbished homes. The area's colorful buildings, picturesque alleys and ocean vistas are popular shooting locations for K-dramas and films.The observatory at 75 Square is a great place to catch your breath and enjoy the view. Further along, 75 Square offers a quiet perch with panoramic views. Take the winding path to Jungri Beach to taste fresh seafood caught by "haenyeo," Korea's traditional women divers. Moving east, stop by the Dongsam-dong Shell Midden Museum, then explore the National Maritime Museum. Finish the hike at Amir Park among the colorful hydrangeas in full bloom.YOLO Guide : Click
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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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