Encompassing the heart of Busan, Busanjin-gu is a lively district and most visitors’ first port of call on arrival in the city. It’s dominated by modern shopping malls, authentic Korean restaurants, and pulsing karaoke bars, as well as a family-friendly park that’s all about entertaining kids.

Things to do

In the heart of Busanjin-gu is Seomyeon, a vibrant entertainment area that’s clustered with restaurants, cinemas and nightclubs. You can get your retail fix in the famous Lotte Department Store or browse the bookmaking shops on Seomyeon Printing Street before hitting the karaoke clubs of Seomyeon 1st Street. While exploring the area, look out for milmyeon, a cold and spicy noodle dish and a local specialty.

For something more traditional, head to the Bujeon Market, an indoor-outdoor complex a short stroll from Bujeon Station. In addition to ready-to-eat snacks and Korean delicacies, you’ll find a diverse choice of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meat. You can grab green tea and red bean sweets from the bakeries or pick up unique souvenirs.

Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the Children’s Grand Park, which is nestled in the foothills of Baeg-Yangsan. It features amusement rides, well-maintained walking trails and a sprawling reservoir, as well as an observation tower looking out across a cypress forest. Kids will particularly love the on-site zoo where they can get up close to giraffes, elephants and squirrels.

Getting around

Busanjin-gu is around 40 minutes by train from Gimhae International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. High-speed trains connect from cities throughout South Korea to Bujeon Station and there are subway, bus and light rail systems for getting around Busanjin-gu.