Unlike the prestigious city of Seoul, Busan is likely the last place that comes to mind when thinking of South Korea.

However, Busan is a city rich in history and culture and home to popular tourist attractions. With over 7 million visitors annually, it is the second-largest city in South Korea and boasts the largest beach in the country. Whether you enjoy daytime activities or nightlife, Busan offers a combination of both. It also seamlessly blends the vibe of city life with the calmness of rural life, offering tourists a unique and well-rounded experience.

The History And Culture Of Busan City

The history of Busan dates back to 2000 years ago, in the 15th century, when the city first started out as a port that fostered trading between the Koreans and the Japanese. Until 1592, when Japan invaded Korea.

Years later, in 1995, it was eventually transformed into a metropolitan city with a rich culture that attracts tourists worldwide. There is so much to know about this city and many places to see.

• Until the year 2000, Busan was called Pusan (McCune-Reischauer Romanization). It was also previously known as Fuzan during the Japanese colonization in 1945.

• Busan and Daegu were the only two cities in South Korea the North Korean army could not capture. This made the cities a refugee camp during the war, and by 1951, there were over half a million refugees in Busan. The Korean War didn’t end until 1953.

• Throughout the Korean War, Busan remained under the sovereignty of South Korea. It was also said that it was once the temporal capital of the country.

• In 1963, Busan decided to be apart from Gyeongsangnam-do to become a Unitarian city that performs its government functions and makes its decisions.

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Interesting Facts About The City Of Busan

The city of Busan is undoubtedly an unsung hero because the beauty and distinctiveness of the city are not talked about as much. Yet, it is home to exciting festivals, events, and famous attractions. Here are interesting facts to know about Busan city.

• The largest beach in South Korea, Haeundae beach, can be found in Busan. The beach is located in Haeundae District and is notable for its year-round festivals.

• Busan, the seaside town, is the second-largest city in South Korea. Startling!

• Busan Port is the largest South Korean Port and the sixth busiest Port in the world.

• On the 31st of May 2002, Busan was one of the first Asian cities, alongside Japan, to host the Fifa World Cup.

• One of the most notable film festivals, Asia’s largest cinematic event (The Busan International Film Festival) is held every year in Haeundae-gu, Busan. In September 1996, when the first BIFF was held, it was recorded as the first international film festival in Korea.

• The famous Jagalchi Fish Market is located in Busan. It is known as the largest seafood market in Korea. Busan has 10 landmarks, and Jagalchi market is one of them. It is a famous seafood restaurant frequented by tourists and locals.

• Apart from the BIFF, Busan also holds other notable events like the Polar Bear Swim that occurs in the first week of January when the beach is at 0°C. Hundreds of people come out to swim in the cold sea every year.

• Another notable event is the International Rock Festival that, holds annually in the month of August.

• The Sea Art Festival is also held annually from September to October in Songdo Beach, Busan.

• Busan has the largest beach in South Korea, but that is not the only beach. Busan is home to 7 beaches; Songdeong, Gwangalli, Songdo, Dadaepo, Ilgwang, Imnang, and Haeundae Beach.

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Things To Do In Busan, South Korea

Tourists planning to visit Busan will find these activities and attractions exciting. Here are things to do in Busan, the summer capital of South Korea.

• Visit the 120-meter-high Busan tower built in 1923. From this tower, you can sip a cup of coffee while you get a picturesque view of the city and the popular Busan port.

• For lovers of mouth-watering street food, a visit to Gwangbok Dong Food Street will make your day. All the dumplings and hotteok you can eat!

• A few minutes walk from Haundae Beach is the colorful Sky capsule in Blue line park. Get on the sky capsule to enjoy the view of the Haeundae beach coastline. The last stop takes you to Songjeong beach. You can also hop on the beach train to get to the famous Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory skywalk.

If you are visiting Busan to enjoy the Beach, you should go around June to September. It is the best time to enjoy the summer city vibe.

• If you love boat cruises, you can go on a boat tour in the Catamaran near Haeundae Beach. Remember to book in advance before going.

• Visit the beautiful Haedong Yonggungsa Temple for a touch of nature, mercy, and tranquility.

• The colorful Gamcheon Village is another place to visit when in Busan. It is a cultural village with loads of fun things to do there. You can visit the museum, art shop, restaurants, and coffee shops.

• One of the newest attractions in Busan is the Songdo Cable Car. It should not be missed. It takes visitors from Songdo Beach to Annam park for 15000 to 20000 won.

• Enjoy the night lights from Gwangandaegyo Bridge. A night tour at the bridge and Illumia Park will be a great way to end the night.

There is more to explore, and in the city of Busan, adventure has just begun.