Watching certain Korean dramas makes you curious about the location. For me, it was the gritty realism and emotional storytelling of the Friend trilogy that sparked a deep curiosity about Busan. The films captured a city that felt raw yet beautiful, tough yet tender. Here are five compelling reasons to move Busan to the top of your travel bucket list.
AI image of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Reason 1. Stunning Coastal Scenery
Busan’s coastal landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. Unlike many major cities that turn inward, Busan opens itself to the sea. Dramatic cliffs meet rolling waves, and walking paths trace the shoreline with panoramic views at every turn.
Spots like the Oryukdo Skywalk and Igidae Coastal Walk offer sweeping vistas of the Korea Strait, while seaside parks provide peaceful corners to sit and watch fishing boats drift across the horizon. Whether you’re catching sunrise over the water or admiring the city lights reflecting on the ocean at night, Busan delivers postcard-worthy scenery in every season.
Reason 2. Beautiful Beaches With a Relaxed Vibe
When most people think of South Korea, beaches may not be the first image that comes to mind — but Busan will change that. The city is home to some of the country’s most beloved stretches of sand.
Haeundae Beach is perhaps the most famous, drawing visitors with its wide shoreline, summer festivals, and vibrant nightlife. For a slightly more laid-back atmosphere, Gwangalli Beach offers soft sand paired with stunning views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge after sunset.
Despite their popularity, Busan’s beaches maintain a relaxed, welcoming feel. Locals stroll along the boardwalk, couples linger over coffee at seaside cafés, and street performers add energy without overwhelming the space. It’s easy to spend hours simply soaking in the rhythm of the waves.
Reason 3. Fresh Seafood & Bustling Markets
As a major port city, Busan is synonymous with seafood, and experiencing it here is unforgettable. The lively Jagalchi Fish Market is the heart of the city’s culinary culture. Vendors display tanks filled with live fish, crab, and shellfish, calling out daily specials to curious visitors.
You can select your seafood downstairs and have it prepared upstairs within minutes — as sashimi, grilled, or simmered in spicy stew. It’s as fresh as it gets.
Beyond seafood, Busan’s markets are a feast for all the senses. Traditional street foods like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) tempt passersby, while colorful stalls showcase everything from handmade goods to regional specialties. Exploring these markets offers a glimpse into everyday life — lively, flavorful, and wonderfully authentic.
Reason 4. Rich History, Vibrant Culture & Unique Attractions
Busan beautifully balances modern innovation with deep-rooted tradition.
On the contemporary side, the Sky Capsule ride along the coast provides Instagram-worthy views in brightly colored pods gliding above the shoreline. Seasonal drone light shows illuminate the night sky with choreographed displays, reflecting the city’s forward-thinking spirit.
Yet tradition is never far away. The serene Haedong Yonggungsa temple sits dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea — a rare coastal Buddhist temple that feels both powerful and peaceful. Wandering through its ornate gates and stone lanterns offers a quiet contrast to the city’s buzz.
For a dose of artistic charm, Gamcheon Culture Village enchants visitors with its pastel-painted houses, winding alleyways, and vibrant murals. Once a hillside refuge during the Korean War, it has transformed into a colorful cultural hub filled with galleries and cafés.
Busan’s layered identity — shaped by war, resilience, art, and ambition — makes it far more than just a beach destination.
Reason 5. Iconic Landmarks & Impressive Architecture
From towering bridges to cinematic skylines, Busan’s landmarks leave a lasting impression. The diamond-shaped façade of Busan Cinema Center honors the city’s role as host of the Busan International Film Festival, one of Asia’s most prestigious film events.
At night, the city truly sparkles. The illuminated Gwangan Bridge stretches gracefully across the water, while high-rise buildings line the coast in a display of sleek, modern design. It’s a skyline that feels both dynamic and distinctly maritime — urban sophistication meeting ocean breeze.
BONUS: No Zombies
(Humorous reference to the popular pulse-pounding horror thriller Train to Busan.)
AI image of night view of Gwangan Bridge
From cinematic roots to coastal charm, Busan captures the imagination long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn by its beaches, intrigued by its history, or simply craving unforgettable seafood by the sea, this vibrant port city promises an experience that is both dynamic and deeply memorable.
As highlighted in “Exploring Korea: 10 Reasons Why Busan Is Famous.” | Stripes Korea.
Busan’s blend of culture, cuisine, and coastline makes it one of South Korea’s most compelling travel destinations.
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