Travel Information

Introduction to Busan [Pusan]

Source : Visit Korea

Related Links
- Visit Korea
- Busan Travel Organization


Situated on the most south-eastern portion of the Korean peninsula, Busan is Korea's second largest city and the number 1 trading port. Korea's first truly international city, Busan (Pusan) connects Asia, Europe, and North America. This geopolitically situated harbor city sits adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, bringing about an interchange of trade and tourism. This intercultural current has made Busan into the international metropolis it is today. Busan has hosted such international events as the 2002 14th Asian Games, the final match of the Korea/Japan World Cup, and since 1995 has annually hosted the Pusan International Film Festival. Additionally, the Bexco Exhibition and Convention Center in Busan brings in people from all over the world for international conventions and exhibits. Shopping in this port city has also become quite popular. Lotte Department Store, Choryang Arcade for Foreigners, Nampo-dong Street, Gukje Market, and Seomyeon market, located in the center of the city, are sought after places by Japanese and other foreign tourists.

Sighting in Busan (Pusan) can typically be classified into two groups: seashore and interior land sighting. Seashore sightseeing includes such sights as the beach areas, islands, and Hae Ahn Park. While interior land sightseeing includes such sights as downtown Busan, historical ruins and sites, Dongnae Shrine, Busan World Cup Stadium, and Bexco Exhibition and Convention Center. Surely Busan's most charming tourist point is its beautiful sea vistas. The southeastern beach areas have amazing views of the fantastically shaped rocks and islands, which are a must see. The famous beaches of Haeundae, Gwangalli, and Songjeong are enjoyed by many. Boating, jet skies, and banana boats are just among a few of the water recreation activities visitors can take advantage of. Amnam Park, Igidae, and Haean Park offer views of nature's masterpieces. The natural beauties of Busan can also be taken in by riding the cruise boats in the harbor.
The summer months offer an array of festivals on almost every beach, while in the fall, the Jagalchi Fish market holds a cultural festival for foreign tourists. The Nakdong Estuary Seasonal Bird Migration Site is a famous tourist spot in the winter. Since the release of the movie 'Chingu' (friend), which was filmed in Busan, Yongdusan Park and Jagalchi Fish Market have become popular areas for tourists as well.
The Busan area has a plethora of places to dine. There is one street that is lined with Dongnae Pajeon (Korean style pancakes) and raw fish restaurants. Additionally, some nearby museums include the Busan Marine Museum, Bokcheon Museum, Busan Metropolitan Art Museum, Busan Museum and many other cultural facilities.

Land: 759.86㎢ Population: 3,512,547 (statistics from December, 2005)