From Cruises to Culture: Busan’s Tourism Reaches New Heights with Millions of Visitors

Published on December 9, 2025

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, reached a significant tourism milestone by welcoming its 3 millionth international visitor, achieving the target set in 2012 after a period of disrupted growth due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The port city has seen a steady recovery in its tourism sector and is poised for even greater numbers in the coming years. As a key destination in South Korea, Busan continues to grow as a regional tourism hub, with the city’s port playing a crucial role in driving international arrivals.

Among the three million visitors, Busan port, the seventh largest in the world, saw a notable increase in cruise tourism, with 400,000 cruisers docking at the port. This surge in cruise calls—238 in total this year—highlights the city’s growing appeal as a cruise destination, contributing significantly to the overall tourism figures. As a result of these impressive numbers, Busan is aiming for 3.5 million international arrivals in 2026, further cementing its position as one of Asia’s top travel destinations.

Busan’s Key Attractions Driving Growth

The city’s strategic location on the southeastern coast of South Korea, combined with its blend of modernity and tradition, has made Busan a top destination for travelers. As a bustling port city, Busan is known for its picturesque beaches, scenic mountains, and rich cultural heritage. It is also home to a thriving culinary scene, with world-renowned seafood, especially fresh fish and sashimi, drawing food enthusiasts from across the globe.

Popular destinations within Busan include the famous Haeundae Beach, a hotspot for both locals and tourists during the summer months. Visitors flock to the area for sunbathing, water sports, and enjoying the many restaurants and cafes that line the coast. The Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and art murals, is another favorite among visitors looking for a unique cultural experience. Additionally, the Beomeosa Temple, nestled on the slopes of the Geumjeongsan Mountain, attracts tourists seeking a tranquil retreat into nature and history.

The city also hosts several international events, such as the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which draws global filmmakers, celebrities, and tourists each year. This event, along with others such as the Busan Fireworks Festival, contributes to the city’s cultural tourism appeal, making it a year-round destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences.

Cruise Tourism: A Driving Force for Busan’s Growth

Cruise tourism has been a major contributor to Busan’s recent tourism boom. With one of the world’s busiest and most modern ports, the city has increasingly become a key stop for international cruise lines. The 2025 record of 400,000 cruisers marks a strong recovery for the city’s cruise sector, which had faced setbacks due to the pandemic. Busan port’s ability to accommodate large vessels has made it an attractive stop for cruise ships traveling to other Asian destinations such as Japan, China, and Taiwan.

The number of cruise calls to Busan in 2025, which reached 238, underscores the growing interest in the city as a cruise destination. These cruise calls bring a substantial number of tourists to Busan, supporting local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. In response to the increase in cruise arrivals, the city has focused on improving its tourism infrastructure, such as better connectivity to major attractions, enhanced port facilities, and the development of shore excursions tailored to cruise passengers.

Busan’s Neighbors Benefit from Tourism Growth

The success of Busan’s tourism sector is not only benefiting the city but is also having a positive impact on neighboring regions. As Busan attracts more international visitors, surrounding cities such as Ulsan, Gyeongju, and Yangsan have also seen a rise in tourism activity. These regions offer complementary attractions, including historical sites, natural parks, and cultural experiences that appeal to tourists visiting Busan.

Ulsan, known for its industrial prowess, also offers natural attractions such as the UNESCO-listed Taehwa River, while Gyeongju, often referred to as “the museum without walls,” is famous for its rich history, including ancient tombs and temples. Yangsan, with its scenic landscapes and proximity to Busan, provides a tranquil escape for those seeking outdoor adventures.

Many tourists combine trips to Busan with visits to these neighboring cities, making use of the region’s efficient transportation networks, including high-speed trains and buses. The seamless integration of Busan with its neighboring cities has turned the broader southeastern region of South Korea into a prominent tourist hub.

Looking Ahead: Busan’s Ambitious Tourism Goals

With the impressive milestone of 3 million international arrivals in 2025, Busan is aiming even higher. The city is targeting 3.5 million international visitors in 2026, and it has a series of strategies in place to achieve this ambitious goal. These include expanding cruise tourism, enhancing the visitor experience through digital platforms, and further promoting cultural and leisure events. The city also plans to host more international conferences, trade shows, and sporting events to attract business tourists.

Busan’s tourism sector is well-positioned to benefit from growing interest in South Korea as a travel destination, particularly as the country continues to recover from the impacts of the pandemic. Busan’s mix of modernity, culture, and nature offers a dynamic travel experience, and the city’s expanding tourism infrastructure will help accommodate the expected increase in visitors in the coming years.

Conclusion: Busan’s Growing Tourism Sector

Busan’s tourism industry has made impressive strides in 2025, with the city reaching 3 million international arrivals. Cruise tourism has played a significant role in this growth, with Busan port seeing a record number of cruisers and cruise calls. As the city continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and attract more international visitors, it is well on its way to achieving its 2026 goal of 3.5 million arrivals. With its unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Busan is solidifying its position as a leading tourism destination in Asia.