Exploring Busan
Right before the new semester resumed, my friends and I went on a 3-day, 2-night trip to Busan. The city welcomed us with sunshine, sea breezes, and a lively energy that felt completely different from Seoul. It was the perfect short getaway, full of delicious food, spontaneous fun, and a few surprises along the way.
The adventure started with Busan’s dazzling blue sky stretching above its modern suspension bridge. Standing there, with the ocean sparkling beneath, I couldn’t help but admire how the massive concrete pillars met the horizon. It was one of those moments where you realize just how big and beautiful a coastal city can be, and it set the mood for the rest of our trip.
For lunch, we dove straight into Busan’s seafood culture at the fish market. We ordered king crab, and soon our table was covered with steaming orange shells. Cracking them open felt like a small challenge, but the reward was sweet, juicy crab meat that melted in the mouth. Add a bit of kimchi and some dipping sauce, and it became one of the most satisfying meals of the trip.
That evening, we tried to find the KOOZA circus — which turned out to be a bit of an adventure itself. After getting lost and missing the first half of the show, we finally slipped into our seats, unsure of what to expect. But the lights, music, and fearless performers quickly pulled us in. The atmosphere was electric, and even though photos weren’t allowed, the flips, balancing acts, and comedy stayed etched in my memory. By the end, I had completely forgotten about the struggle to get there.
The next day started with a trip to the Arte Museum, a place where art isn’t just hung on walls but surrounds you completely. From glowing digital forests to moving waterfalls of light, every room felt like stepping into a dream. We wandered slowly, letting each installation play tricks on our senses. It was one of those places where you don’t just look at art — you feel like part of it.
As soon as we walked out of the museum, the smell of fresh bread drifted through the air and pulled us in like a magnet. Inside the bakery, trays of pastries greeted us — colorful, creative, and almost too pretty to eat. There were cream-filled buns dusted with sugar, tarts topped with fruit, and even cute bread shaped like cartoon characters. We grabbed a small box, promising ourselves we’d only eat a little, but of course that didn’t last long!
In the elevator of the same bakery, I spotted a random poster for the Tokyo Revengers exhibition. It felt funny and a little surreal to suddenly see anime characters staring back at me after eating croissants. These unexpected details are what make exploring new places fun — you never know when you’ll stumble across something quirky that makes you smile.
By evening, it was time to slow down and relax at ClubD Oasis. With our full-day spa pass, we explored pools, hot baths, and steaming rooms — my first real 찜질방 experience. The warmth seeped into every muscle, and I felt like all the stress I’d been carrying melted away. It wasn’t just about relaxation, but also about sharing laughs with friends in a place that felt both soothing and lively at the same time.
Later that night, we hopped on a cruise around Haeundae Beach. The water was calm, reflecting the glittering skyline of Busan’s tall buildings. Music played softly on deck, and we leaned against the railings, enjoying the cool breeze. The real highlight came when fireworks exploded over the water, painting the sky with color — a perfect reminder of how alive this city is, even after dark.
On the final day, before heading back to Seoul, we tried Skyline Luge Busan. Riding down winding tracks on small carts felt both thrilling and hilarious — especially when we tried racing each other. The sound of laughter echoed as we zoomed downhill, making it one of the most memorable parts of the trip. It was the perfect ending before we packed our bags and said goodbye to Busan.
💡 Pro tip: most of these adventures were free or discounted thanks to the Visit Busan Pass. If you ever come here, grab one — it saves money, opens doors to countless activities, and makes exploring even more fun.