Busan: A Trip to the Dynamic Coastal City

Positioned at the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Busan (부산), also known as Pusan, is South Korea’s second-largest city. Its name means “Cauldron Mountain”, which came from the shape of the mountain at whose foot the city is situated. Though Busan had been designated as a trading post in the 15th century, the city only emerged from a provincial backwater in 1876.

Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s busiest seaports and one of South Korea’s commercial centers. Generally, the connection to the sea is most evident in these two areas: Haeundae and Jagalchi. While Haeundae is a mile-long beach sprinkled with edgy skyscrapers, Jagalchi is the largest and most popular seafood market in the country.

Measuring two kilometers in length and about 40 meters in width, Haeundae is by far the most famous beach in South Korea. Every summer, thousands of holidaymakers flock here, turning the area into some sort of bustling water park

The crescent of sand is lined with numerous upscale hotels and apartments, as well as a beautiful promenade. Though the heat (and the crowd) is reduced during winter, Haeundae is much alive with numerous pubs, bars, festivals, and concerts.

But Haeundae is not just the name of the beach. It is also associated with the famous Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) which takes place every October. Often dubbed as South Korea’s Oscar, this festival gathers the most prominent faces in the Korean film industry.

And the main venue for this event is nowhere but the stylish Busan Cinema Theater in the Haeundae neighborhood. Completed in 2012, this avant-garde architecture features a “flying roof”, three indoor theaters, as well as an outdoor cinema known as Dureraum.

Aside from the beaches, many people traveled to Busan for its natural hot springs. There is always a good reason to go to such places, whether it’s the health benefit, the bad weather, or simply a relaxing moment after work. Most of these hot springs are located in either a hotel or a resort, with a few exceptions such as the popular Spa Land in Shinsegae Centum City.

Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, Spa Land brings the concept of jjimjilbang  (Korean public bathhouse) to a new level. Twenty-two spas are fed by two different kinds of natural springs and thirteen distinctively themed saunas spread across two floors. From steaming hot to icy cold, visitors can experience all kinds of traditional saunas from all over the world. There is also an expansive public area, where people can take a nap or chill with friends and family.

Home to the country’s largest harbor, it is not difficult to understand why Busan’s food scene is so thriving. It is characterized by fresh ingredients; many of which just came directly from the ocean; and a wide array of products. From fresh king crabs to dried stingrays, seafood fans can find nearly every species in the seven stories of Jagalchi Fish Market – the largest of its kind in South Korea.

Outside the building along the road and the shore, you can see ajumma (middle-aged or married women) selling mackerels and squids on wooden boxes; just like 60 years ago when this market is established. Another reason why Jagalchi Fish Market is famous throughout the country is that it represents the people of Busan: boisterous, bold yet kind-hearted.