🇰🇷 South Korea
Busan travel guide
Busan is South Korea's second city and premier coastal destination. Dramatic mountains plunge into the sea, colorful villages cling to hillsides, and fresh seafood markets bustle with life. From the famous Haeundae Beach to the rainbow-hued Gamcheon Culture Village, neon-lit Seomyeon to traditional Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan offers a more relaxed alternative to Seoul with its own distinct personality.
Language
Korean (less English than Seoul)
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
Timezone
GMT+9
Best time
April to June and September to November
Budget/day
KRW 80000-200000/day ($60-150)
When to visit
Jan
-1°C - 8°C
Feb
1°C - 10°C
Mar
6°C - 14°C
Apr
11°C - 18°C
May
15°C - 22°C
Jun
19°C - 25°C
Jul
23°C - 29°C
Aug
24°C - 30°C
Sep
20°C - 26°C
Oct
14°C - 22°C
Nov
8°C - 17°C
Dec
2°C - 11°C
Safety
moderateBusan is very safe. Beach and ocean currents can be strong.
Women travellers
Exercise standard precautions. Research specific areas before visiting. Use registered transport services. Avoid isolated areas at night.
Culture & etiquette
- + Learn basic local phrases
- + Dress appropriately for local customs
- + Be respectful of local traditions
- + Ask before photographing people
- - Don't display expensive items
- - Don't share too much with strangers
- - Don't ignore local customs
- - Don't assume everyone speaks English
Food to try
Dwaeji gukbap
Pork soup with rice (Busan specialty)
Fresh sashimi
Ultra-fresh at Jagalchi
Milmyeon
Cold wheat noodles (Busan style)
Ssiat hotteok
Seed-filled sweet pancakes
Eomuk
Fish cake (Busan is famous for it)
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.