News
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2025 Busan Media Members to showcase the city's charms The 2025 Busan Media Members are excited to get to work. The 2025 Busan Media Members officially launched on March 14 with its largest roster to date. The multicultural group comprises 120 citizen reporters and includes members from countries such as Singapore, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Turkiye. This citizen-driven media team will use various digital platforms and social media channels to report on Busan policies, events, culture and tourism. Their efforts are expected to enhance Busan's reputation both domestically and internationally. Outstanding contributors will be rewarded and recognized by Mayor Heong-joon Park.
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Busan makes a splash in English education "English Waves" Level 1 On March 11, Busan Metropolitan City launched "English Waves," an English-language program for young learners up to the second grade of elementary school. Unlike traditional learning methods that focus on memorizing words and phrases, this curriculum takes a child-centered approach. It utilizes the Content and Language Integrated Learning method to help children learn English while exploring subjects like science, history and geography. The curriculum encourages independent intellectual, emotional and social development while respecting each child's learning style and progress. "English Waves" is divided into two stages: Level 1 is oriented towards kids ages 4 to 6, while Level 2 is for first and second graders. Each level includes eight workbooks and accompanying audio files, as well as engaging narratives to teach children vocabulary, grammar and phonics. The books feature adorable characters, including Boogi, Busan's seagull mascot, and highlight the city's landmarks and festivals, such as Haeundae Beach, Yongdusan Park and the Busan Fireworks Festival. The citywide Deullak Nallak children's centers offer free English classes that use the "English Waves" curriculum. The classes, led by native-English speakers, provide a convenient and enjoyable way for kids to develop their language skills. Enrollment for the second batch of students begins in August. Teachers and caregivers can access "English Wave" materials for free via Busan's English-Friendly City website or the Deullak Nallak homepage. To celebrate the launch, Busan City is giving away 30 physical copies of "English Waves" through a raffle open until April 30.Enter the raffle : https://naver.me/FjbKwoQJ
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Busan sets a blueprint for 15-minute cities Carlos Moreno, who popularized the 15-minute city concept, had high praise for Busan's urban development policies. Carlos Moreno, the renowned scholar behind the 15-minute city concept, visited Busan from March 23 to 24 to experience the city's urban development firsthand. A professor at the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne, Mr. Moreno introduced the 15-minute city concept in 2015. The model envisions cities where residents can access essential services, such as work, shopping, healthcare, education, and leisure, within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. The idea promotes sustainable, human-centric urban living by reducing car dependency, enhancing local economies, and improving overall quality of life. Mr. Moreno's connection with Busan began in 2022 when he participated in an online discussion with Mayor Heong-joon Park regarding the city's 15-minute city initiative. Later that year, he visited Busan for the World Knowledge Forum, where he praised the city's urban planning efforts.Mr. Moreno visiting children at the Deullak Nallak in City Hall. On his most recent visit, Mr. Moreno witnessed Busan's plans come to life. On March 23, he visited the Deullak Nallak children's center in Busan City Hall and the Cheongnyeon Jakdangso in Jung-gu District. The Deullak Nallak program is a key pillar of the initiative, as it provides educational and cultural experiences for children throughout the city. The Cheongnyeon Jakdangso is a culture, leisure and work space for young adults. The following day, Mr. Moreno explored Danggam Linear Park. Designed to provide residents with green spaces close to home, the award-winning park features pedestrian-friendly pathways and Korean-style gardens. Mr. Moreno then met Mayor Park at Domoheon to share his impressions. He commended Busan's efforts, noting that it was impressive to see citizens enjoying the new spaces and infrastructure. He also expressed optimism about Busan's potential to lead the expansion of 15-minute cities across Asia. Moreno plans to host a global conference on 15-minute cities in Paris on Sept. 4 and invited Busan to share its experiences.
Enjoy Busan
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No pain, no gain on the ‘Secret Coffee Road’ source: galmetgil🏃🏻♀️ YOLO Route 2In Korean, the expression “go jin gam rae (고진감래)” can be translated as “sweetness after bitterness.” Like the adage “no pain, no gain,” “go jin gam rae” expresses the wisdom that one must endure a bitter hardship before a sweet reward.The notion of “sweetness after bitterness” applies to many aspects of life and perfectly describes YOLO Route 2. Also known as the “Secret Coffee Road,” YOLO Route 2 is a 16-kilometer, physically demanding course with a cumulative elevation of 580 meters. As the longest route in the YOLO collection, it takes about 5 hours to complete. Hikers who brave the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and charming coffee houses.The course starts at Gijang-gun County Office, a 10-minute walk from Gijang Station on the Donghae Line (exit 2). Following the Galmaetgil signs through Woosin Neoville Apartment Complex, trekkers encounter the first “bitter” challenge, a steep 230-meter climb up Bongdaesan Mountain. At the summit, visitors are greeted by views of the Gijang coastline and the East Sea.Descending from Bongdaesan, the trail leads to Woljeon Village, home to the picturesque Jukseong Catholic Church. Though it looks like a place of worship, this iconic landmark and popular tourist attraction was originally built as a set for the television series “Dream” (2009).Another hike up Bongraesan leads to Daebyeonhang Port, where the “sweet” part of the route begins. From here, the route transforms into a scenic coastal walk, where waves crash against the shore, seagulls call overhead, and the deep blue sea stretches endlessly. This section, passing through the Yeonhwa-ri neighborhood to Orangdae Park, offers a refreshing contrast to the earlier, more strenuous terrain.And finally, the “Secret Coffee Road” reveals itself. From Orangdae Park onwards, the course is dotted with an array of coffee shops. From luxurious cafes to cozy breweries, trekkers can find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee. <Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>expression: 표현 bitterness: 쓴맛 cumulative: 누적 elevation: 고도 vista: 경치 summit: 정상 worship: 숭배 reveal: 드러내다 Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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Busan in Bloom ④ Tulips source: visitbusanThe debate over which spring flower reigns supreme can be quite spirited, with opinions varying widely. However, tulips are undoubtedly a top contender with their vivid pink, red, purple, orange, yellow and white hues.🌹 Hwamyeong Ecological Park Tulip FieldAs cherry blossoms fade, tulips take center stage. The Nakdonggang River Management Headquarters cultivates a vibrant tulip field near the P1 parking lot of Hwamyeong Ecological Park. Visitors can admire the blooms up close along open walking paths. Last year, the field featured 70,000 tulips across 11 varieties, including the much beloved Apeldoorn and Mango Charm. Its visual appeal drew widespread attention on social media. This year's display promises even more breathtaking sights.◎ Address: 270 Saengtaegongwon-gil, Buk-gu🌹 Nakdonggang Riverside and Myeongpum Garo ParkContinuing along the Nakdonggang Riverside Cherry Blossom Path, visitors will find a tulip field complemented by artistic sculptures. Meanwhile, Myeongpum Garo Park, near Sasang Station (metro line 2), features a garden adorned with tulips and whimsical installations. The park offers picturesque backdrops for spring photography.◎ Address (Nakdonggang Riverside): 29-36 Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu◎ Address (Myeongpum Garo Park): Gwangjang-ro, Sasang-gu<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>debate: 논쟁 contender: 도전자 fade: 희미해지다 cultivate: 경작하다 vibrant: 활기찬 admire: 감탄하며 보다 complement: 상호보완하다 sculpture: 조각 picturesque: 그림같은 backdrop: 배경Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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The thrilling experience of walking on water The Songdo Cloud Walk is one of the most popular attractions in Western Busan. Make a full day out of your visit by taking a ride on the Songdo Marine Cable Cars as well. If the monotony of daily life has you feeling trapped, take a walk on the water. Busan's skywalks offer a breathtaking escape from the daily grind. These unique walkways provide panoramic ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze. Whether visiting with loved ones or exploring solo, these skywalks promise a thrilling adventure.Oryukdo Skywalk■Oryukdo Skywalk Perched on a coastal cliff in Yongho-dong, Nam-gu District, Oryukdo Skywalk offers visitors stunning views from 35 meters above the water. First built in 2013, the skywalk was expanded in 2023 to a length of 16.5 meters and a width of 4.5 meters. The walkway's 2.4-centimeter-thick tempered glass floor provides a dizzying look at the waves below. The skywalk overlooks Oryukdo, a group of islands whose number appears to change with the tides. Comprising six islets-Sol, Shield, Lighthouse, Eagle, Cave and Drill-this natural landmark is best observed using the tower viewer at the skywalk's end.ºAddress: 137 Oryukdo-ro, Nam-guºHours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last entry at 5:50 p.m.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: Visitors are required to wear shoe covers provided at the entrance. Entry may be restricted in inclement weather.Cheongsapo Daritdol ObservatoryHaewol Observatory■Cheongsapo Daritdol & Haewol Observatories Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, a U-shaped skywalk perched on the eastern cliffs of Haeundae-gu District, extends 191 meters over the sea. Originally a straight 73-meter walkway, it was expanded in July 2024. The reinforced glass floor offers an unobstructed view of the waves crashing below, while the final section, made completely of glass, tests the bravery of visitors. Nearby, Haewol Observatory, also completed in July 2024, features a crescent-shaped main tower, a U-shaped skywalk, and a 15-meter circular glass-floored plaza. Standing 22 meters above the ocean on the southern tip of Wausan Mountain, it provides an unparalleled viewing experience. Both observatories are ideal for sunrise and sunset visits when crowds are smaller and the atmosphere is more serene. At night, LED lights illuminate the structures, enhancing their beauty.ºCheongsapo Daritdol Observatory: 3-9 Jungdong San, Haeundae-guºHaewol Observatory: 42-66 Jungdong San, Haeundae-guºHours: Both places open daily at 9 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. from March to May. No entry 10 minutes before closing.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: Entry may be restricted in inclement weather.Songdo Cloud Walk■Songdo Cloud Walk Inspired by the historic Cloud Bridge that once graced Songdo Beach, the Songdo Cloud Walk is a modern seaside promenade extending over the water. At 365 meters long, it is the longest skywalk in Korea. With sections standing 5 to 9 meters above sea level, the tempered glass flooring enhances the thrill of walking above the ocean and mimics the feeling of bobbing along waves. The walk connects to Geobukseom Islet, the site of a local legend, a love story between the daughter of a sea dragon and a fisherman. At night, the walkway is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a stunning photo opportunity. Visitors can also catch a close-up view of the Songdo Marine Cable Cars gliding above the sea.ºAddress: 129-4 Amnam-dong, Seo-guºHours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.ºAdmission: FreeºNote: The skywalk lights are turned on at 6 p.m.Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge■Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge The entrance to the 127-meter bridge is located under the Songdo Marine Cable Car boarding area and connects Amnam Park to Dongseom Islet. It features steel mesh walkways that provide views of the ocean below. Dongseom Islet itself offers sweeping views of Songdo Beach, Namhangdaegyo Bridge and Oryukdo. As night falls, the bridge lights up, enhancing its romantic appeal. Designated photo zones invite visitors to capture unforgettable moments against the picturesque backdrop and enchanting lights.ºAddress: 620-53 Amnam-dong, Seo-guºHours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last entry at 5:30 p.m.ºAdmission: 1,000 won, or 800 won per person in groups of 10 or more.ºNote: The bridge is closed on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Food
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Where to eat: 'Taste of Busan 2025' Busan Metropolitan City has released "Taste of Busan 2025," the definitive guide for gourmands seeking authentic dining experiences in the city. Now in its 23rd year, "Taste of Busan" highlights the city's most beloved restaurants and cafes. Selections are based on on-site evaluations and expert recommendations from industry professionals, food columnists and influencers, alongside data from local hygiene departments and online and offline reviews. The guide is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Notably, 20 of these establishments are also included in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025. "Taste of Busan" provides a comprehensive overview of dining options throughout the city, from casual barbecue spots to sophisticated French-inspired fine dining restaurants. Haeundae-gu and Suyeong-gu districts, which form the epicenter of Busan's tourism, boast the most selections, with 29 and 22 eateries, respectively. "Taste of Busan 2025" is available online via the city's official tourism portal Visit Busan, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, train stations, hotels and Gimhae International Airportlink : click
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Find your next favorite restaurant with ‘Taste of Busan 2025’ source: Taste of Busan 2025Busan City has released the 23rd edition of “Taste of Busan,” an annual showcase of the city’s favorite restaurants, bakeries and cafes. The free guidebook is available in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese.The 2025 edition features 150 restaurants, six more than last year. Each entry includes photos, menu highlights and other essential information. The guidebook also contains interviews with renowned local chefs, who share their insights on the local food scene and their culinary philosophies. More than just a list of restaurants, “Taste of Busan” introduces the origins and unique aspects of 13 local dishes, such as Dongnae pajeon (seafood and green onion pancake), milmyeon (cold wheat noodles), and dwaeji gukbap (pork soup and rice). It also highlights the best restaurants serving these traditional dishes, inviting readers to explore the rich world of local gourmet experiences. Notably, this edition introduces QR codes that link to multilingual menus at 50 restaurants. Since last year, Busan City has initiated the Multilingual Digital Menu Project to help local restaurants provide menus in multiple languages, thereby enhancing the convenience of international visitors. The menus are available in English, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Japanese, Vietnamese, Russian and Arabic. “Taste of Busan 2025” is available online via the Visit Busan tourism portal, while physical copies can be picked up for free at tourist information centers, select restaurants, consulates, the Busan Tourism Organization and relevant district offices. Additionally, starting in mid-April, Busan City will distribute pocket-sized maps indicating the location of the restaurants featured in “Taste of Busan” at tourist information centers.◎ View “2025 Taste of Busan”: click<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>contain: 포함하다 renowned: 유명한 culinary: 요리의 philosophy: 철학 unique: 독특한 aspect: 모습 notably: 주목할만하게 initiate: 계획하다 enhance: 향상시키다 convenience: 편리함 relevant: 관련있는 district: 구(군)Editor: Song SoomiCopy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy
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New Busan restaurants featured in Michelin Guide 2025 Busan's reputation as a gourmet destination remains as strong as ever, with 48 Busan restaurants earning a spot in the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2025, announced on Feb. 27. This marks an increase from the 43 selections in 2024, Busan돴s first year as a Michelin Guide destination. The city now boasts 19 Bib Gourmand and 26 Selected eateries to go along with its three one-star restaurants. Six new establishments have joined the list: naengmyeon specialist 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, bibimbap restaurant Bibijae, pork soup eatery Jeongjitgan, ox-bone soup shop Hanwolgwan, and beef barbecue spots Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant. Of these, 100.1.Pyeongnaeng, Bibijae, Jeongjitgan and Hanwolgwan received the prestigious Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes high-quality cuisine priced under 45,000 won per person. Born and Bred and Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant were included as "Selected" restaurants, a Michelin distinction for noteworthy establishments. Busan's three Michelin-starred restaurants - Mori, Palette, and Fiotto - retained their one-star status, reaffirming their excellence and consistency. Fiotto also continues to hold the Michelin Green Star, an accolade for sustainable gastronomy. A full list of the Michelin Guide 2025 Busan selections, including restaurant details, photos, and inspector reviews, is available on the Michelin Guide website(click) and mobile app.100.1.Pyeongnaeng●Address: 29 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.●Main Dish: Naengmyeon●Price level: ₩ Bib GourmandBibijae●Address: 45 Nam cheonbada-ro 10 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Thursdays.●Main Dish: Bibimbap●Price level: ₩ Bib GourmandJeongjitgan●Address: 6 Bibong-ro, Saha-gu●Hours: Open 24 hours a day●Main Dish: Dwaeji gukbap●Price level: ₩ Bib GourmandHanwolgwan●Address: 10 Gwangan-ro 62 beon-gil, Suyeong-gu●Hours: Mon to Fri, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (break 3 to 4:30 p.m.) Weekends open until 10 p.m.●Main Dish: Gomtang●Price level: ₩ Bib GourmandBorn and Bred●Address: B1F Paradise Hotel, 296 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily, noon to 10 p.m. (break 3 to 5:30 p.m.)●Main Dish: Steak●Price level: ₩₩₩₩Haeundae Rib Barbecue Restaurant●Address: 333 Haeun daehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu●Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (break 3 to 5 p.m.)●Main Dish: Barbecue●Price level: ₩₩
Life
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Sign Up for a Chance to Win a Copy of the Busan English Textbook for Kids! Busan Metropolitan City is excited to introduce English Waves, a fun and engaging English-language program designed especially for young learners up to the second grade of elementary school!Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on memorization, English Waves takes a more child-friendly approach. Using the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) method, children get to explore fascinating subjects like science, history, and geography all while naturally picking up English.This thoughtful curriculum supports each child’s unique learning style and encourages well-rounded growth?intellectually, emotionally, and socially. It’s all about making learning joyful and meaningful!The textbooks are full of delightful illustrations and lovable characters, including Boogi, Busan’s cheerful seagull mascot. Children will also discover the wonders of Busan, from Haeundae Beach and Yongdusan Park to the dazzling Busan Fireworks Festival.To celebrate the launch, Busan City is giving away 30 printed copies of English Waves through a special raffle! Don’t miss your chance! entries are open until April 30.◎Event Period: Through April 30◎Winners announced: May 4 (Winners will receive a text message)☎Inquiries: Busan City Creative Education Division (051-888-2212)※Busan City may contact you regarding the English textbook satisfaction survey.participate : https://naver.me/FjbKwoQJ
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Find the hidden objects and win a prize! Hidden Objects : Mouse, Zipper, Bell, Beka Squid, Smartphone, Clothes Hanger, Shark, Match Stick, Toothbrush■How to participate① Search high and low: Find all the hidden objects in the picture.② Snap a picture: Take photos of the hidden objects you discover with your mobile phone ③ Scan the QR code below to join the event, or cut out the newspaper section with the hidden objects and send it via post. Busan is Good will randomly select 10 lucky participants to win a mobile gift voucher for cultural activities worth 10,000 won.■Participation Details■Period: April 1 to 20 (until 6 p.m.)■Result Announcement: April 25 on the Busan City Newspaper's official website (busan.go.kr/news)■Mailing Address: 1001 Jungang-daero, Yeonje-gu (Media Division of Busan City Hall)Participate : https://form.naver.com/response/eI04P6wfLmlXCHjc1fEYpw
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[INTERVIEW] Minjeong Kim wants you to learn Korean We met Minjeong Kim, a skillful Korean instructor at BGCF. The Busan Global City Foundation offers free Korean language lessons for international residents. Classes are offered in 15-week sessions and range from basic, phonics-level courses to advanced speaking. Since its launch in 2006, the program has grown from 76 students from 13 countries to 452 students from 50 countries in 2023. Busan is Good spoke with Minjeong Kim, a Korean language instructor at BGCF with nearly a decade of teaching experience, about her insights into language education.Q. What do you enjoy about teaching Korean?A. I feel proud and fulfilled when I see students who initially struggled with reading and speaking develop into fluent speakers. I feel truly grateful when students thank me for helping them see that learning Korean is a stepping stone towards their goals, rather than an obstacle.What is the most important aspect of teaching Korean? Korean is unique in that a single phrase can carry multiple meanings. For instance, when someone says "이 음식이 정말 맛있네요" (i eumsigi jeongmal masinneyo), they are saying "the food is delicious," but the sentence also expresses that this is the first time they've tried the food or that they are surprised by how good it is. Native speakers inherently know the difference between that sentence and "이 음식이 정말 맛있어요" (i eumsigi jeongmal masisseoyo), which also means "the food is delicious," but without any added meaning. The nuance comes from the different endings, as "네요" typically expresses the speaker's personal appreciation. An online translator would interpret the two sentences as exactly the same, but native speakers know they are not. That is a key focus in my classes: Introducing the nuances in expressions and encouraging students to create sentences using them in real-time.Q. What are some characteristics of Korean learners in Busan?A. Busan attracts a diverse group of international residents, each with different backgrounds, occupations and reasons for learning Korean. People come from all over the world - Asia, Europe, America, and Africa - each pursuing their own goals. However, they do share something in common: a curiosity about the Korean language and culture. Many students are particularly fascinated by Busan's dialect. Phrases like "밥 뭇나?" (Bap munna? "Have you eaten?") and "어데 가노?" (Eode gano? "Where are you going?") intrigue them, as does the unique usage of "어" (uh) - which, depending on tone and pitch, can mean both "yes" and "no." Q. How is the newly opened Busan Hangul Institute different from BGCF's existing programs?A. While the BGCF Korean classes are open to all international residents, classes at the Busan Hangul Institute are tailored specifically for international students in the city. It provides career-oriented Korean language education to help them secure jobs and settle in the city. The school offers practical programs, including resume writing and job interview preparation. There are intermediate and advanced TOPIK test preparation courses, as well as small-group conversation and writing workshops. This is just the beginning, and we hope to see growing interest in the program as we continue supporting international residents in Busan.Q. Do you have any advice for foreigners who want to learn Korean?A. There is a saying: "Learning a language is like opening a window to another culture." The Korean language will undoubtedly reveal new perspectives and experiences you never knew existed. I believe that learning Korean can significantly broaden your horizons, so please do not hesitate to take on the challenge. I wholeheartedly support your determination to pursue this journey. And, I hope to see you in one of our Korean classes!
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No pain, no gain on the 'Secret Coffee Road' Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are beloved hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources, featuring long walks along beaches and gentle climbs up mountain slopes. The routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil are especially popular. These routes let hikers experience quaint villages, historical sites and more. YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.The coastal walking trail from Orangdae Park to Ananti at Busan Cove is an ideal place for a spring outing. The smooth path, endless blue sea and the sound of crashing waves make for a perfect stroll.■ YOLO Route 2 In Korean, the expression "go jin gam rae (고진감래)" can be translated as "sweetness after bitterness." Like the adage "no pain, no gain," "go jin gam rae" expresses the wisdom that one must endure a bitter hardship before a sweet reward. The notion of "sweetness after bitterness" applies to many aspects of life and perfectly describes YOLO Route 2. Also known as the "Secret Coffee Road," YOLO Route 2 is a 16-kilometer, physically demanding course with a cumulative elevation of 580 meters. Hikers who brave the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and charming coffee houses. The course starts at Gijang-gun County Office, a 10-minute walk from Gijang Station on the Donghae Line (exit 2). Following the Galmaetgil signs through Woosin Neoville Apartment Complex, trekkers encounter the first "bitter" challenge, a steep 230-meter climb up Bongdaesan Mountain. At the summit, visitors are greeted by views of the Gijang coastline and the East Sea. Descending from Bongdaesan, the trail leads to Woljeon Village, home to the picturesque Jukseong Catholic Church. Though it looks like a place of worship, this iconic landmark and popular tourist attraction was originally built as a set for the television series "Dream" (2009). Another hike up Bongdaesan leads to Daebyeonhang Port, where the "sweet" part of the route begins. From here, the route transforms into a scenic coastal walk and earns its "Secret Coffee Road" moniker. The course is dotted with an array of coffee shops. From luxurious cafes to cozy breweries, trekkers can find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee.Cafes along YOLO Route 2 feature great ocean views.Take a rest at the Songiljeong Pavilion at Songjeong Beach.YOLO Guide : Click
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In Busan, 'YOLO' means long walks by the sea Busan's Galmaetgil Trails are a collection of hiking routes that showcase the city's natural resources. With long walks along beaches, gentle climbs up mountain slopes and invigorating dips in hot springs, the trails are beloved by citizens. The collection of routes known as YOLO Galmaetgil is especially popular. The 10 routes combine hiking with cultural assets like quaint villages, cafes and historic sites. YOLO has two sources of inspiration. First, from "you only live once," the acronym that describes the mindset that since life is short, it should be enjoyed; second, from the phrase "come here" as pronounced in the local dialect. Taken together, YOLO is an invitation for visitors to experience the joie de vivre locals have: Come to Busan and enjoy life.■ YOLO Galmaet-gil Route 1-1 YOLO Route 1, also known as "The Beginning," starts on the sandy shores in Gijang-gun County in eastern Busan. The trail stretches 9.1 kilometers from Imnang Beach to Ilgwang Beach. The walk takes approximately three hours, featuring flat terrain with expansive ocean views and the soothing sound of crashing waves. The journey begins at Imnang Beach, a serene location on Busan's easternmost shore. Its pristine white sand stretches over a kilometer, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue sea. Sinpyeong Small Park is the perfect place to rest tired legs. The ocean view, traditional pavilion and well-grown pine trees heal your body and mind.Take in the ocean at an observatory in Sinpyeong Small Park.Get a view of unique lighthouses at Chilamhang Port. Heading south, walkers reach Chilamhang Port, known for its distinctive lighthouses. The port is famous for fresh conger eel sashimi, attracting visitors from across Korea. A notable stop is Chilamsagye, a bakery and cafe founded by Busan-born confectionery master Heung-yong Lee. Selected as a 2024 Taste of Busan establishment, it offers fresh pastries and coffee with stunning sea views. The journey concludes at Ilgwang Beach, one of Gijang-gun's eight scenic wonders. Its shallow waters and gentle waves make it a popular destination for families. At the central observatory, shaped like a ship's bow, visitors can take in an uninterrupted view of the horizon, marking the perfect end to this scenic coastal walk.Learn more about YOLO Galmaet-gil Course 1 : Click
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Walking Along Busan: Eulsukdo Island It is rare to find a space where nature and culture come together like they do on Eulsukdo Island, which boasts nature reserves, museums and performance centers. Eulsukdo Island, located at the western end of Busan, where the Nakdonggang River Estuary meets the sea, is an ideal destination for leisurely strolls. Its well-paved trails, refreshing river breeze and serene natural beauty are perfect for treating tired minds and bodies. Covering approximately 80,000 square meters, Eulsukdo Island is a haven for wildlife, teeming with diverse plants and animals. In the 1950s, it was renowned as one of Asia's largest bird migration sites and remains home to numerous birds, such as whooper swans and mallards. However, the island faced a dark period in the 1990s when it was used as a landfill, disrupting its delicate ecosystem and deterring migratory birds. In the 2000s, an extensive ecosystem restoration project was undertaken, and through continuous efforts, Eulsukdo Island has successfully recovered, welcoming the return of its feathered visitors. Beyond its ecological significance, Eulsukdo Island is also renowned for its cultural and artistic assets. The Nakdonggang Estuary Bank Bridge is a useful reference point for understanding the layout of the island. This bridge connects Saha-gu and Gangseo-gu districts and crosses over the island. Two main parks can be found west of the bridge, the Migratory Bird Park to the south and the Ecology Park to the north. The Migratory Bird Park provides a tranquil habitat for flora and fauna, while the Ecology Park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. East of the bridge lies the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in 2018. The museum's unique architecture blends seamlessly with the verdant landscape of Eulsukdo Island. The museum offers an immersive experience through cutting-edge art, utilizing various media such as video, sound, and light. Its exhibitions enthrall visitors by demonstrating contemporary art's vital role in modern society, from technological collaborations to sharp social commentaries. Northeast of Busan MoCA, visitors can find another iconic cultural hub with over two decades of history, the Eulsukdo Cultural Center. It houses a theater, an exhibition hall, an outdoor stage and a variety of cultural classes for the public. The surrounding sculpture park and the Water Exhibition Hall of the Korea Water Resources Corporation are popular with families. Eulsukdo Island offers numerous opportunities for visitors to learn about the environment, enjoy scenic views and improve their well-being. It features a multi-purpose indoor sports complex, the Nakdonggang River Cultural Center, the Nakdonggang River Observatory and the National Youth Ecology Center. On weekends, the island's outdoor sports fields become a hive of activity. These include artificial turf football fields, futsal courts and little league baseball fields.A walking trail in Eulsukdo Ecological Park.The Vertical Garden at Busan MoCA.Eulsukdo Cultural Center and Sculpture Park.