Busan, South Korea | World’s Best Cities

Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is equally loved for its urban sophistication and natural beauty. Literally: It ranks #35 in both our overall Lovability and Livability categories. With its stunning beaches, mountains, and lush urban grid (it ranks #18 for Air Quality and #19 for Heat Stress), Busan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with popular spots like Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach sating watersport enthusiasts while hikers feast on the trails of Geumjeong Mountain. Recent additions to its #16-ranked museum scene, such as the Busan Museum of Contemporary Art (opened in 2022), have elevated the city’s cultural profile. The museum focuses on eco-friendly art and digital exhibitions, making it a favorite among younger audiences and environmental advocates. Another key highlight is the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which has grown into one of Asia’s premier film events. The city has invested heavily in expanding its cultural infrastructure to host even more global art exhibitions and festivals by 2025, with plans for a new Korean War Memorial Museum aimed at preserving South Korea’s complex history. The city is increasingly sharing in Seoul’s prosperity, with the Busan New Port Expansion Project sure to enhance the city’s global trade networks when it opens in 2027.