What city comes to mind first when you think of Korea? Probably Seoul will, but Busan takes its place beside. Busan is the second-largest city and the largest port city in Korea. It lies on the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula. With a harmony of mountains, rivers, and sea, people can enjoy its geography, nature. Although it is very far from Seoul, many people still travel to Busan during their vacation. What is it known for? Why do people visit Busan? Let us take a closer look at this beautiful city and prepare a perfect trip.
1. Nampo-dong
1) BIFF Square
Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is held every year in Busan. BIFF Square has the first-run movie theaters and handprints of famous actors on the street. There are many famous markets like Jagalchi Market and Gukje Market near BIFF Square, too.
Number 18 Wandang House
Opened in 1948, “Number 18 Wandang House” has 60 years of tradition in Nampo-dong. Located directly across from BIFF Square, it is one of the most popular restaurants in the area. It has menus using Wandang, which is similar to dumplings. Wandang can only be found in Busan so it is definitely recommended that you try it.
Ssiat Hotteok
Ssiat Hotteok is a Hotteok, Korean honey-filled pancake, with Ssiat (seeds) inside. This special kind of Hotteok is enjoyed across the country, but it is originated in Busan. In BIFF square, there used to be many street food vendors. However, food vendors are hard to find because of the strong regulations due to COVID-19. Nevertheless, there are still some selling Ssiat Hotteok, so if there is a chance, the reporter recommends trying it.
2) Jagalchi Market
Jagalchi Market is a famous market in Busan for fresh fish and seafood. It is located right next to BIFF Square. You can take out seafood or eat it right away in the market. Also, because Busan is known for its fish cake, there are many stores that are specialized for it. In the market, people can enjoy much of the smell of the sea.
3) Busan Tower
If there is N Seoul Tower in Seoul, there is Busan Tower in Busan. It is not as big and high as N Seoul Tower, but because of that, it is easier to go up on a hill to see the actual tower. There is a special cafe building right next to the tower. It looks like a Hanok, the traditional Korean-style house.
2. Haeundae
1) Haeundae Beach
Haeundae Beach is often said to be one of the most famous and popular beaches in Korea. There are various festivals held on the beach throughout the year, but because of COVID-19, the light festival has been postponed for now. The beach is always booming with people, even in the winter.
2) Gaemijip
Gaemijip is a franchise restaurant known for “Nak-gob-sae”, which stands for Nakji (small octopus), Gobchang (tripe) and Saewoo (shrimp). Nak-gob-sae is very popular nationwide that there even is Gaemijip near Konkuk University. It originally started from Jagalchi Market, but it is recommended to eat in Haeundae because it will feel fresher and more delicious after seeing the beautiful sights of the ocean. Be aware that it may be a little hard for people who cannot eat spicy food. Although the level of spiciness can be selected, the mildest one was still very spicy for the reporter.
3) The Bay 101
The Bay 101 is a waterfront complex in front of Marine City, a residential area full of tall apartment buildings. It is known for the nightscape, the shining apartments and the image of them reflecting on the water. It is not so far from Haeundae Beach. There is also a yacht club so if you want to take a luxurious yacht tour around Busan’s tourist attractions, it is definitely a must-do. However, this yacht tour is very popular so reservation in advance is recommended.