Busan is the largest port city and the second largest metropolis of South Korea. "Busanpo" was its first port name in Hangul which means "rich, mountain and inlet" in English. Later, in 1469, it was renamed "Busapo". The opening of the port to the world market in the 18th century brought development to the entire city of Busan. Nowadays, it continues to grow as the hub of the Pacific Rim after being enlarged and modernized into a metropolitan city in 1995.
Busan is a city with many hills. Roads are paved but narrower compared to those in Seoul. If Seoul has a reputation for being fast-pace with its bullet train, Busan is more laid-back with its old-fashioned subways. Down south to the Nampodong is the shopping and entertainment haven while Seomyeon is known for its lively nightlife with plenty of street food. Dotted with baths, tourist hotels, restaurants and clubs, Dongnae Oncheon is the place to unwind in bustling Busan. A dip in the hot spring is a rewarding experience after a long day tour.
Around Busan are temples, shrines, a museum, and natural wonders. Equally popular is the Beomeo-sa, one of Korea's complex temples nestled in the mountainous slopes of Geumjeongsan. The temple gets packed with Buddhist worshippers annually and hikers on weekends. Surrounded by the ocean on one side and mountains on the other, the Nakdong River humbly serves as a perennial sanctuary for migratory birds and has played a significant role in the Korean history. During the Joseon, Goryeo and Silla periods Nakdong served as a major transportation in the Gyeongsang district and as a barrier during the Korean War.
Today, Busan has become more popular in the international scene, thanks to its exposure as the venue of the 2002 Asian Games and the APEC summit in 2005. The development and reconstruction of its port, the rich culture of the place and the genuine hospitality of its inhabitants all make up the wonderful destination that is Busan.
