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) |