The Miami of South Korea is known for its unrivaled beaches, and Haeundae’s 2025 redesign has added wider promenades, shaded seating and upgraded night-lighting, while Gwangalli is debuting a waterfront performance plaza this summer. Trails on Geumjeong Mountain and the temple-studded Beomeosa area are now linked by improved wayfinding and seasonal shuttle loops. Culture keeps leveling up: The Busan Museum of Contemporary Art’s 2025 expansion introduces a new digital-media wing, Loop Lab and rooftop sculpture garden, while the Korean War Memorial Museum in Yeongdo is on track for a 2026 opening. The Busan International Film Festival has locked in an expanded program through 2027, cementing its global profile. The #31-ranked Restaurants scene, long influenced by post-Korean War refugees, boasts countless dining rooms and unmatched hwae (seafood).
Economic muscle matches the soft power in a city ranked #37 in our Educational Attainment subcategory. The North Port redevelopment is in full swing, with mixed-use towers, hotels and a cruise terminal opening in phases from late 2025, directly feeding visitor and investor interest. The $10-billion Busan New Port expansion aims to build the world’s largest container handling capacity, boosting current capacity by nearly 50%. Retail and luxury hospitality, like the Lotte Hotels L7, are rising with the tide.