Don’t just visit Seoul when you go to Korea – 5 must-photograph spots in Busan that first-timers can’t miss!

▲ The Bay 101 is a must-visit for night views in Busan, where the million-dollar skyline makes for amazing photos.

Reported and photographed by Lai Wenxuan / Busan, South Korea

For many K-pop fans, Seoul is the top overseas destination, but with many airlines recently expanding their services to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city is now just over two hours away. This coastal metropolis offers a completely different vibe from Seoul. If it’s your first time in Busan, don’t miss these Instagram-worthy spots that even Korean girls are crazy about.

▲ The Bay 101 boasts a dazzling nightscape across the water, with skyscrapers lit up in a mesmerizing display.

1.The bay 101
When it comes to Busan’s most famous night view, Gwangan Bridge might come to mind first, but The Bay 101 has emerged as a new popular night spot in recent years. The building, designed to look like a gift box, houses a mall where you can enjoy a coffee or take an evening stroll.

▲ The Bay 101 offers a captivating nightscape, with festive lights lining the streets for a romantic atmosphere.

The area is also decorated with festive lights and themed lanterns. Head to the pier area to admire the colorful million-dollar skyline of high-end residential buildings across the water. It’s not only a hit with tourists, but also a favorite spot for Korean couples to take romantic photos. Even Jung Yong-hwa, the lead singer of the popular Korean band CNBLUE from Busan, has posted selfies here on Weibo!

Additionally, from The Bay 101, you can also enjoy a distant view of the famous Gwangan Bridge at night, capturing two of Busan’s most breathtaking night scenes in one go – great value for your time.

Transportation:
Take Exit 1 of Dongbaek Station on the Busan Subway and walk about 10 minutes to get there.

▲ Haeundae, one of Busan’s most famous attractions, draws numerous visitors.

2. Haeundae
One of Busan’s key attractions is the iconic “Haeundae Beach.” With its crystal-clear white sands and beautiful coastline, it attracts many visitors year-round. Strolling along the beach, you’ll enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and often spot flocks of seagulls flying overhead – a truly relaxing experience.

In addition, Dongbaek Island, located at the southern end of Haeundae Beach, is known for its stunning scenery formed by wintergreen trees and pine forests, as well as its scenic coastal walking path. At one end stands the Seapyeong Building, built for the 2005 APEC meeting, making it one of Busan’s emerging future tourism hotspots.

▲ The area features Haeundae Beach’s beautiful shoreline and the Seapyeong Building, which hosted the APEC meeting.

Transportation:
Exit 3 or 5 of Haeundae Station on Busan Subway Line 2, an 8-minute walk.

▲ Gamcheon Culture Village is a favorite for photos with its Little Prince and Desert Fox installations.

3. Gamcheon Culture Village
Known as Busan’s “Machu Picchu,” Gamcheon Culture Village features brightly painted houses in a variety of colors, looking as charming as Lego blocks. It’s one of the must-photograph and super photogenic spots in Busan. However, this site originally came about during the Korean War when residents built homes on the hillside to escape the conflict. Later, through community painting and renovations, the area became filled with adorable murals and art installations, turning it into a popular attraction.

▲ The neighborhood is filled with vibrantly painted houses, earning it the nickname “Busan’s Machu Picchu.”