Busan
Haeundae, Seomyeon, markets, beaches and getting there from Seoul.
Guides for this section are being researched and checked. Meanwhile, start with the Start Here page or the Getting Around guides.
About this section
Busan is Korea’s second city and its main port — a sprawl of beaches, hills and harbour neighbourhoods along the southeast coast. Most visitors arrive by KTX from Seoul or fly into Gimhae International Airport, and a growing number combine Busan with Fukuoka in Japan by ferry or short flight.
Where to stay. Haeundae and Gwangalli are the beach districts, with ocean views and higher hotel prices. Seomyeon is the transit hub and nightlife centre. Nampo-dong and the area around Busan Station are best for markets and for short trips if you’re arriving or leaving by train or ferry.
Getting around. Busan has its own subway network and the same contactless transit cards work there as in Seoul. Distances are bigger than they look on a map — budget travel time when you plan to cross the city.
Getting there. The KTX from Seoul is the standard route; see how to book KTX tickets for the booking steps and current fares. For the ferry and flight options to Japan, see Korea ↔ Japan.
Guides covering neighbourhoods, beaches, markets and day trips around Busan will be published here with sources and a facts-checked date.