Busan, South Korea – The city of Busan is set to host the 17th Busan Port Festival from June 1 to 2, celebrating the vibrant maritime culture and international trade heritage of Busan Port. The festival will take place at various locations, including the Busan International Passenger Terminal, the North Port Waterfront Park, and the Yeongdo Coast Guard Pier.
Busan Port, one of the busiest ports in the world, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Originally opened in 1876, the port played a crucial role in Korea’s modernization and economic development. Over the years, it has evolved into a key hub for international trade and logistics in Northeast Asia. The port’s strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities have made it a central gateway for global maritime commerce.
In recent years, the functions of Busan Port have largely shifted to the Busan New Port, allowing for the redevelopment of the North Port area. This redevelopment aims to transform the historical port into a vibrant urban space that combines commercial, cultural, and recreational activities, contributing to the city’s growth and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The festival features a wide array of programs designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. The main attractions include the “Global Port Park,” which transforms shipping containers into interactive exhibits showcasing cultural content from around the world. Visitors can explore the Turkish Pavilion, experiencing traditional crafts, the Japanese Pavilion, highlighting the nation’s music culture, and the Thai Pavilion, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s renowned relaxation culture.
Another major highlight is the “Boat Tour” at the North Port Waterfront Park, where participants can navigate through the waterways in uniquely themed boats such as cars, doors, donuts, and Cinderella boats. This activity provides a fun and engaging way for attendees to experience the maritime environment firsthand.
The festival also offers educational activities, particularly in the “Busan Pavilion,” where visitors can navigate a maze made of large containers, solving quizzes and completing missions related to Busan Port. Additionally, the Waterfront Park will host a children’s writing and drawing competition and a model ship-building workshop.
At the Yeongdo Coast Guard Pier, the public can enjoy a range of activities, including tours of large coast guard vessels, a ride on the “Saenuri” harbor tour boat and the “Jagalchi Cruise,” and participation in a mission-based stamp tour around the Yeongdo maritime cluster.
The opening ceremony will be held on June 1 at 7:30 PM in the parking lot of the Busan International Passenger Terminal. The event will feature a performance by the renowned singer Kim Bum-soo, followed by a spectacular fireworks and drone show combining 1,200 drones for a dazzling display over Busan Port.
Event Overview
- Event Name: 17th Busan Port Festival
- Date: June 1-2, 2024
- Locations: Busan International Passenger Terminal, North Port Waterfront Park, Yeongdo Coast Guard Pier
- Budget: 640 million KRW (300 million from city funds, 300 million from Busan Port Authority, 40 million from private contributions)
- Organizers: Busan Metropolitan City, Busan Port Authority, Busan Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries
- Main Programs: Global Port Park, Boat Tour, Harbor Tours, Maritime Leisure Activities, Large Coast Guard Vessel Tours, Children’s Writing and Drawing Competitions
For more information, visit the official website of the Busan Culture and Tourism Festival Committee at www.bfo.or.kr.
