Thanks to the blockbuster “Train to Busan,” the city of Busan has etched itself into our memories faster than a caffeine rush on a Monday morning — undoubtedly a feat worthy of its own box-office status.
But let’s hit the pause button on flesh-eating zombies for just a moment. According to the country’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Busan stands proudly as one of South Korea’s five main regional tourism hubs from 2020 to 2025. With its laidback vibes, picturesque mountains, and beaches that practically beckon you to take off your shoes, it’s no surprise that Busan is stealing the limelight. And trust me, the only thing scarier than zombies in Busan is how unusually fast the time flies when you have so much fun being there.
On top of these, Omio — the go-to platform for booking trains, buses, and flights — reveals that Busan has secured an impressive sixth place on its 2024 “Most Exciting Cities to Travel for Gen Z” list. Quite an accolade, aptly reflecting the discerning tastes of the younger generation.
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Did you know that Busan also holds the distinction of being the only city North Korea never managed to capture during the Korean War? Talk about resilience! It served as a refuge for war-weary souls and even took on the role as the provisional capital. Fast forward to today, and Busan continues to captivate with its remarkable culture, vibrant art scenes, and mouth-watering maritime feasts.
Just an hour away, Tongyeong might still be flying under the travel radar, yet it emerges as a year-round favourite destination among locals, boasting delectable seafood, mesmerising seascapes, and the irresistible charm of quaint fishing villages.
So, if you were in search of a well-rounded experience in South Korea, look no further than the dynamic duo of Busan and Tongyeong. These cities are tailor-made for travellers of every interest, offering a journey that promises unforgettable moments, one blissfully zombie-free step at a time!
Here are some of my favourite things to see and eat in these beautiful cities…
ARRIVING IN BUSAN
AirAsia X is the only airline that offers direct services from Kuala Lumpur to Busan. The flight takes six hours and 10 minutes, three times a week.
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BUSAN
Haeundae Blueline Park Sky Capsule
So, you’ve heard about those charming sky capsules soaring above Busan’s coastline, and you’re wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, dear reader, allow me to paint you a picture: imagine drifting lazily through the skies at a casual five kilometre per hour, with panoramic views of the city and its stunning coastline unfolding before your eyes. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it?
Covering a two-kilometre route from Haeundae Mipo Station to Cheongsapo Station, the journey lasts 20 minutes. You can choose a one-way ticket or indulge in a round-trip adventure, and the boarding points are either Mipo Station or Cheongsapo Station. But here’s a little secret: booking tickets from Cheongsapo Station is usually a breeze compared to the bustling Mipo Station.
Pro tip: Sunset is your golden ticket to golden hour views! Plan your ride accordingly and watch as the city lights up with a breathtaking glow. And if you happened to be at Cheongsapo Station, keep an eye out for the Haeundae Beach Train making its way across the street – a photo opportunity that screams “Instagram-worthy!”
Huinnyeol Culture Village
Away from the seawater but not far from the charm, Huinnyeol Culture Village is a coastal village perched on the cliffs of Yeongdo. Originally a refuge for Korean War survivors, the village was brought back to life by artists in 2011. It is now filled with colourful murals overlooking the Busan seaside and Namhang ports. As you wander through its narrow alleys, you’ll discover cute cafes and unique shops selling handmade handicrafts. Feel free to capture the picturesque scenes, but be sure to respect the residential areas and stick to marked places.
Gwangalli Beach
Gwangalli Beach, a darling among Busan’s youth, is the place where city vibes seamlessly collide with seaside tranquillity. Grab your camera and take a lazy stroll along the white sandy beach, with the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge as your picture-perfect backdrop. But the magic doesn’t end there – come nightfall, the beach transforms into a sensory wonderland with buskers serenading visitors. And here’s the kicker: a 10-minute drone show is held every Saturday night, absolutely free! Now, who said experiencing beauty should break the bank?
P.ark Cafe and Bakery
If your taste buds lean towards the sweeter side of life, make your way to P.ark Cafe and Bakery. This spacious bakery cafe not only boasts an impressive array of over 80 pastries but also offers a feast for the eyes with its modern and spacious interior. Sip on a perfectly brewed cup of coffee or tea while relishing generously-sized pastries that are almost too beautiful to devour. As you sit back and enjoy your delightful treats, take in the breathtaking views of Busan harbour that the cafe’s ample space affords.
BIFF Square
BIFF Square, born from the glitz and glamour of the Busan International Film Festival, has reinvented itself into a cultural hotspot. While it may not host A-listers anymore, it does boast a lively atmosphere with shops, movie theatres, and street food stalls vying for your attention. Movie fans, don’t forget to play detective and spot your favourite celebrities’ handprints on the floor. And for those beauty enthusiasts, the popular Olive Young store has an outlet here, so be ready to dive into all those K-beauty products!
Seomyeon Underground
Seomyeon Underground Shopping Center is a haven for fashionistas on a budget. Boasting a plethora of clothing and accessory shops, this bustling shopping centre is synonymous with affordable brand shopping in busy Busan.
TONGYEONG
Dongpirang Village
Nestled behind the Joongang Market, this gem is not just a village but a canvas of creativity, making it one of the famous mural villages in South Korea. In 2007, the local community rallied volunteers from across the country to transform the walls of their once-dormant neighbourhood, teetering on the edge of demolition. The outcome? A captivating array of painted walls narrating stories, turning the area into a sought-after Instagramable atmosphere. The village’s elevated location also provides a picturesque panorama, making it an ideal spot for photographers and anyone seeking a relaxing stroll.
What makes Dongpirang even more fascinating are its thematic cafes, and oh, there’s one with an ‘Anne of Green Gables’ theme! It’s a place where the interior and walls are an ode to Anne and her friends. But the joy extends beyond visuals because you can even snag Anne-inspired accessories too!
Don’t forget to grab a popular coin-shaped waffle at one of the village stores. Trust me; it’s a delightful treat that will elevate your Dongpirang experience to a whole new level!
Fun fact: Dongpirang has served as a backdrop for several famous dramas, including “Innocent Man” (2012) starring Song Joong Ki, “Padam Padam” (2011-2012) featuring Kim Bum, and the 2019 drama “Item” with Ju Ji-hoon.
Tongyeong Cable Car
Often hailed as the Napoli of Asia, Tongyeong boasts unrivalled coastal beauty, and the Tongyeong Cable Car is your ticket to experiencing it in all its glory. The 10-minute ride in gondola-style cabins showcases the majestic Mt. Mireuksan on one side and the enchanting islands of Hallyeohaesang National Park on the other. If luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of Japan in the distance. Reach the summit for a daring transparent skywalk, a true test of nerve for the bold souls. You can also grab snacks and enjoy the scenery before descending back to reality. The thrill-seekers may opt for the luge cart ride downhill for that extra adrenaline kick.
Dara Park
Dara Park is a go-to spot for sunset lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape. While getting to Dara Park requires a drive, the journey is undoubtedly worth it. The park offers a stunning warm-hued panorama of the mountains as the sun bids adieu. Entry to Dara Park is also free, making it an accessible retreat for everyone. And for those who want to enhance their sunset experience, there is a café to grab a cup of coffee or some snacks.
DPIRANG
As night falls, venture into DPIRANG, the digital night-time theme park in Nammangsan Park. Imagine 15 walking paths adorned with mesmerising lights, creating a magical forest with projection mapping technology. It’s a journey straight out of a storybook, where you can get lost for hours. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes – those trails have surprises waiting at every turn!
MUST-TRY DELICACIES
- Ssiat Hotteok (Seed Hotteok)
Hotteok, a popular South Korean street snack, takes on a unique twist in Busan with its famous seed hotteok variety. Served piping hot, this pancake is cut open and generously stuffed with a mix of pine nuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. The result is a crunchy, sweet delight that will have you addicted after the first bite! Head to BIFF Square to savour the best seed hotteok from one of the renowned stalls.
Note: While halal-certified stalls may be scarce, hotteok is typically made with halal ingredients. Always inquire about the ingredients from the stall owners before making a purchase.
- Eomuk (fishcakes)
As a port city, Busan is renowned for its eomuk, or fishcakes, served odeng style. Among the stores in the city, the Goraesa Fish Cake Shop in Haeundae stands out for its wide range and high-quality products.
Note: Goraesa Fish Cake Shop also sells eomuk with meat ingredients, so Muslim travellers should exercise caution. Nevertheless, there are plenty of stalls in the city offering Muslim-friendly eomuk – just inquire about the ingredients to ensure a worry-free experience.
- Seafood noodle
For a comforting taste of Korean cuisine, dive into the flavours of Korean seafood noodles. This wholesome dish features a medley of clams, shrimp, or other seafood bounty, braised with noodles in a savoury sauce. Okcheon Seafood Restaurant is a recommended spot to savour this seafood delight.
- Abalone
Abalone is a classic in Korean cuisine. Dongpirang Jeonbok Maeul is your go-to place for this gastronomic delight, where abalone is masterfully prepared in various ways – from soups, grilled, to abalone rice. The restaurant’s popularity guarantees a queue, but the unforgettable taste makes it well worth the wait.
For those looking for more Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly options, a comprehensive list of restaurants can be found here.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- Malaysians are among the selected passport holders eligible for Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) application to enter South Korea, which can be accessed here: www.k-eta.go.kr/portal/apply/index.do
- The process is rather simple as long as the applicants ensure that all necessary documents are ready before submission. The estimated processing time for a K-ETA is one to three business days. However, I highly recommend travellers to plan ahead and lodge the application at least four weeks in advance.
- Please have all the necessary documents at hand upon arrival at the airport.
- Travellers are encouraged to make a clear plan of what they want to do and visit in South Korea, so that they can answer confidently when asked by the immigration officer.
For more information, visit english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/planYourTravel/travelInfo/subTravelBasics.do and english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/thingsToDo/subMuslimFriendly.do.
Gaya Travel Magazine extends our heartfelt gratitude to Korea Tourism Organisation Malaysia Office and AirAsia X for making the writer’s trip to this beautiful region possible. Visit english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/main/index.do for more information regarding Busan and Gyeongnam.
Filed in: South Korea
