South Korea's second-largest city -- it's home to 3.7 million residents -- Busan is filled with towering apartments, crowded streets, and a modern subway system. That description may remind you a bit of Seoul, but don't be fooled -- this is a very different city. The people of Busan are in some ways more formal and traditional, but in other ways more easygoing and open. Busan's residents are not what you'd expect of those living in a modern metropolis, exhibiting the same friendliness you'll encounter in most rural towns, but that's just part of the city's charm.
Due to its natural harbor and gentle tides, it is the largest port in the country and the third largest in the world. Located on the southeastern coast of the peninsula, Busan is surrounded by the South Gyeongsang province (Gyeongsangnam-do) and is about 763 sq. km (295 sq. miles) in area. It is nestled in the Nakdong River Valley, surrounded by the ocean on one side, and mountains on the other with hot springs scattered throughout. Busan is called South Korea's summer capital, as its six beaches attract thousands of tourists from throughout the country. So it's not the place for a peaceful vacation in the summers, but off season (especially winters) brings quieter shores and a less hurried atmosphere.
Because Busan grew up along its coastline, the city is unusually long in shape -- as a result, it has more than one city center. The area around Busan's ports bustles with energy as boats arrive daily from all over Asia, and nearby Nampo-dong is home to the massive Jagalchi seafood market. The tourist center of Haeundae boasts some of the country's finest resort hotels, while the Seomyeon neighborhood is a paradise for shoppers. The old city center, Dongnae, in the north toward the mountains, is a great place to experience hot springs and Korean-style bathhouses.
It can thank its major international port for its modern growth, and its cultural festivals and natural seaside beauty for its attraction as a major tourist destination. I hope you'll enjoy not just the beaches and cafe culture here, but the genuine warmth and hospitality of the people.
