Busan is South Korea’s second largest city with a population of 4.6 million. It is also the 5th busiest port in the world and is set amongst a series of hills so you are always walking either up or downhill. A vibrant port city, full of life with ancient markets alongside the biggest department store in the world Shinsegae Centum City.

I was privileged to spend time with a Korean family and celebrate Chuseok  (Harvest Moon Festival), the most important festival on the Korean calendar and BIFF (Busan International Film Festival) was on at the same time.

I flew China Eastern from Heathrow to Shanghai and then Korean Air to Busan. China Eastern is a budget airline and very basic. Avoid this route because they do not automatically transfer your luggage to the next flight at Shanghai, you have to pickup your luggage and go through immigration where they issue you with a temporary visa and customs which takes 2 hours because they scan everyone’s luggage. I only just made it onto my connecting flight after 3 hours of standing in queues, unbelievable.

Japanese Invasion Monuments and Galmegi Beach

Citizens Park used to be a US Military Base, Busan National Gugak Centre to attend a music and dance performance (no photos) – not to be missed  and Bujeon Market.

Chuseok (Harvest Festival), Beomeosa Temple and Nampo

Busan Museum, UN Cemetery, and Songjeondong Beach

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