Busan News

Busan, South Korea - In a landmark step toward greater regional autonomy, the cities of Busan and the neighboring province of Gyeongsangnam-do (Gyeongnam) unveiled a preliminary blueprint on November 8 for a proposed administrative integration. This initiative aims to transform Busan and Gyeongnam into a cohesive “regional economic capital” with expanded local control over finances, legislation, and public services. For South Korea, where administrative authority is highly centralized, the propo

Busan, South Korea – Busan’s small business sector is grappling with a critical downturn as restaurant closures surge and commercial vacancy rates climb across the city. More than 2,100 restaurants have closed their doors this year alone, representing a 75% increase compared to last year’s figures, leading to vacant storefronts in previously bustling districts. Recent data illustrates the sharp rise in both closures and vacancies. In Nampo-dong, one of Busan’s iconic shopping areas, the vacancy

Busan, South Korea - Busan is setting the stage for global recognition in the wellness and medical tourism industry with the 2024 Busan International Medical Tourism Convention, held at BEXCO from November 8 to November 9. This international convention, now in its 16th year, will welcome leaders and innovators from 18 countries, providing a platform to showcase Busan’s commitment to becoming a premier destination for wellness and medical services. The convention, jointly organized by the city o

Busan, South Korea — In a move poised to reshape the future of South Korea’s southeastern region, the city of Busan and Gyeongnam Province have formed a new Public Deliberation Committee to develop a roadmap for administrative integration centered on citizen input and collaborative governance. Launched with an official ceremony at the Gyeongnam Provincial Office, the initiative addresses the growing need for regional governments to streamline resources, enhance economic competitiveness, and impr

Busan, South Korea — A recent survey reveals that Busan's "Dongbaek Pass" initiative has led to a significant increase in public transit use among residents, with 76.5% of pass users reporting more frequent use of public transportation. The survey, conducted from October 15 to October 22, 2024, also shows high user satisfaction, with 92.5% of respondents expressing overall satisfaction with the program. Launched in August 2023, the Dongbaek Pass was designed to make public transportation more a

Busan, South Korea — At a pivotal forum held at the National Assembly on November 6, 2024, stakeholders from various sectors gathered to discuss establishing a maritime court in Busan. The forum, titled "The Role and Legislative Direction of a Maritime Court for Busan as a Global Hub," attracted attention from prominent figures in politics, the maritime industry, and academia. The discussion focused on the court's potential to bring specialized legal expertise to Busan, supporting the city’s amb

Busan, South Korea - Busan’s Hadan–Sasang Line, an urban railway project set to span 6.9 kilometers, is designed to connect the bustling areas of Hadan and Sasang. Currently, the project is approximately 68% complete, with a targeted opening date in late 2026. However, recent events have raised significant concerns about the project’s safety measures, accessibility, and demographic shifts, casting uncertainty on its completion and readiness to serve the residents of Busan effectively. A series

Busan, South Korea – Busan hosted the “2024 Busan World City Brand Forum” today at Nurimaru APEC House, bringing together global experts in city branding, marketing, and design to discuss strategies for positioning Busan as a "Global Hub City." Notable speakers included Simon Anholt, known for pioneering the concept of nation branding, and representatives from Kearney and the World Design Organization. Central to the forum was the introduction of the “Global Hub City Index,” a new tool unveiled

Busan, South Korea – As the crisp autumn air sets the perfect scene, Busan is ready to ignite the night sky with its 19th annual Busan Fireworks Festival on November 9, a dazzling celebration promising to captivate attendees and announce Busan’s ambitious stride towards becoming a global tourism hub. The festival, held at Gwangalli Beach, promises a fresh blend of visual artistry, intricate pyrotechnics, and community spirit, all designed to make an unforgettable impact. The event, which draws

Busan, South Korea - The City of Busan has officially launched the National Dental Research Institute Promotion Committee, a coalition aimed at positioning Busan as the site for South Korea’s first dedicated dental research institute. The committee, composed of government officials, industry leaders, and academic experts, represents a concerted effort to elevate South Korea’s status in the global dental industry and secure Busan as the institute’s home base. The establishment of a National Dent

Busan, South Korea – Jangnim Port in Busan’s Saha District will come alive on November 2-3 with the “Bunechia Art Market,” a cultural festival that brings together local art, community collaboration, and traditional performances. This event, organized by regional artists, merchants, and members of the local fishing community, highlights Jangnim’s unique character through a blend of flea markets, workshops, and live shows. One of the main attractions is the Nakhwa Firefall Display, a traditional

Busan, South Korea — The 2024 Busan World Peace Forum, held on November 1 under the theme “A World Without War: Strategies for Global Peace and Cooperation,” was promoted as a flagship event in Busan’s campaign to establish itself as a global hub for peace. Promoted as an impactful gathering of experts and leaders to discuss global peacebuilding, the forum was expected to set the stage for Busan’s commitment to international peace initiatives. However, upon closer examination, the forum lacked t