The United Nations Memorial Cemetery is a burial ground for United Nations soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War (1950-1953). There are more than 2,300 graves within its boundaries and it remains the only burial ground dedicated entirely to UN soldiers in the world. The memorial itself is spread over borderless grassland and is comprised of various sites, including the Turkish monument, Greek monument, Australian monument and British Commonwealth monument.
93 UN pyeonghwa-ro, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea
The abundant amount of paintings, artworks and graffiti that decorates this village allows travellers to indulge in taking fabulous photos of Korea’s more creative side. After climbing up the mountain it clings to, visitors can obtain a sweeping view of the town, decorated with a kaleidoscope of houses. Be sure to grab a map at the entrance – the winding streets here are notoriously difficult to navigate!
Situated along the coast, this temple built by the great Buddhist teacher Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty is not only an ideal destination for overlooking the scenic ocean, but also a site to showcase traditional Korean religion. During the Buddha month, there are plenty of lanterns hanging around, portraying a sense of romance that blends with Korean authenticity. Along the staircases leading to the temple, travellers can get authentic Korean street food like hotteok, beondegi and sausage to boost their energy.
Stretching across Haeundae-gu and Suyeong-gu, the Gwangan Bridge is the longest bridge in Korea, offering over a 100,000 magnificent lighting effects at night to form one of Korea’s finest after-dark scenes. What’s more, a number of bars and restaurants are located along the bridge and provide a wide selection of dining options, ranging from authentic street food, casual meals and even fine dining.
The ideal destination for an idyllic, sun-soaked trip, a day at Haeundae Beach promises to be an exceptional experience combining world class luxury and untouched nature. Surrounded by deluxe hotels offering immaculate service and a wide section of relaxation activities, guests are able to enjoy some private time while appreciating the unspoiled coastline. Haeundae Beach is also the place where some of the city’s best bars and restaurants concentrate, making it a fine stop later in the evening.
Walking along the Haeundae beach leads to this splendid peninsula nestled between the coast and Gwangalli Beach, which provides spectacular views that blend the multicoloured night scene of the city with glimpses of the ocean and sweeping views of the famed Gwangan Bridge. Aside from admiring the scenic beauty of Busan, the site, decorated with aromatic flowers and bushy trees, is also an incredible spot to tranquilize the mind and regain connection with nature.
This fish market is a remarkable landmark that appears on every bucket list, providing a scarce opportunity for travellers to experience the best of Korean seafood and local culture. Along the main street, a massive collection of food stalls selling authentic street food and traditional drinks catch the attention of foodies. Vendors offering an overwhelming variety of cooked and uncooked dishes including squid, octopus, crab, starfish, oyster and mussels scatter inside the market itself.
This aquarium located around the corner of Haeundae Beach offers visitors an inspiring journey of discovery. The massive collection of sea creatures covering more than 250 species of aquatic life is an asset for educating the public in untold secrets of the marine world. Divided into eight themed zones, travellers can peep into the mysterious behavior of exotic animals here.
266, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea
Renovated in 2002, this museum presents the sheer density of Korean history from the prehistoric era, through Japanese occupation and the post-WWII decades, to the modern day. The range of ancient artefacts includes statues of Korean heroes and reconstructed historical scenes, while visitors are given chances to try on traditional Korean costumes and engage in tea ceremonies.
A trip to Busan could never be complete without a taste of mouth-watering Korean cuisine. A meal at Dongnae Samgyetang, one of the most popular restaurants in Busan, is a wonderful place to begin. Upon stepping into the restaurant, diners are surrounded by classic Korean decorations, while dishes like kimchi, pickled cucumber and noodles, arrive at the table in no time!
