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Lush Greenery in the City Center: Busan Expands Its “Garden-Type Urban Forest” Initiative

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Busan Metropolitan City is expanding its garden-type urban forest projects in 2025, with the goal of creating greener urban environments and enhancing public well-being.

The initiative aims to plant more garden-type forests near residential areas, thereby reducing exposure to fine dust, mitigating heatwaves, and improving overall air quality and quality of life for residents.

According to a study by the National Institute of Forest Science, ultrafine particles (PM0.4 and smaller) settle more efficiently in areas with urban forests. This was supported by findings published in international journals, showing a correlation between urban forests and reduced cases of respiratory illnesses.

To this end, Busan will first build three climate-responsive urban forests (6 hectares total) near industrial complexes to block the inflow of pollutants into residential zones.

• ●Projects include:

• ○A carbon sink forest in Haeundae Arboretum

• ○Fine dust reduction forests in Sinho Industrial Complex (1 ha) and Ilgwang Amusement Park (1 ha)

The urban wind corridor forests will channel cool, clean air from suburban forests into the city, improving air circulation and expelling pollution. Following planning and budget allocation in 2023, two forests will be completed this year (4.8 hectares total):

• ●“Forest for Peace” near Daeyeon Arboretum

• ●“Connection Forest” along Junggwan Central Boulevard in Jangkwan New Town

To protect children from traffic hazards, fine dust, and heat, the city will also create Child Safety Green Forests near schools.

• ●Example:

• ○A street forest (0.04 ha) near Singok Elementary School in Jwadong, Haeundae-gu will offer a natural buffer between sidewalks and roads, enhancing safety and providing a space for nature interaction.

Additionally, the city will build small gardens at BRT stations to reduce exposure to direct sunlight and radiant heat, offering passengers a refreshing place to wait.

• ●Following last year’s pilot at four locations (Song Sanghyeon Plaza, Gaya Station, Centum Station on the Donghae Line, and Choryang Station), this year’s project will expand to 12 stations from Jurye to Dongui University.

At the symbolic Seomyeon Intersection, an eco-friendly “naturalist” garden will be installed to enhance the visual identity of one of Busan’s busiest junctions. To welcome visitors during the National Sports Festival, vibrant flower gardens will also be installed at major gateways including Gimhae Airport and Busan Station—further promoting Busan as a City of Gardens and Flowers.

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Ahn Cheol-soo, Director of Busan’s Green City Bureau, stated:
"We will do our utmost to bring gardens and urban forests into residents’ daily lives. We hope citizens will actively engage in and support Busan’s transformation into a true garden city."