[One Day Walk] Enjoying the Busan Sea on Haeundae Coastal Trail

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Haeundae Panorama
Photo by Lee Chunhee

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chunhee] Today's ten-thousand-step course is Busan. As a port city, there are walking paths along the sea in various places. The route introduced today is the Haeundae Coastal Walk, which boasts beautiful ocean views. It is also Section 2-1 of the 'Galmaetgil,' a pleasant walking trail developed by Busan.

The starting point is Dalmaji-gil in Haeundae. It is a representative spot in Haeundae where you can enjoy both sunrise in the early morning and moonrise in the evening. Thanks to its elevated location without relying on artificial structures, you can take in the spectacular scenery of the entire area at a glance.

Descending Dalmaji-gil and reaching LCT, the coastal path unfolds in earnest. Walking leisurely along the well-maintained approximately 1.6 km trail beside the sound of crashing waves at Haeundae Beach, you will come across Dongbaek Island. Following the trail that goes up and down stairs right next to the sea, you will reach Nurimaru, the venue of the 2005 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. You can take a short break to visit the APEC Memorial Hall, which allows you to feel the vibrancy of that time, or enjoy panoramic views of the area from the observatory, including Igidae, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, and Dalmaji-gil.

After passing the turnaround point and entering Marine City, lined with high-rise buildings, you will find the Movie Street, fitting for the city that hosts the Busan International Film Festival every autumn. There are introductions to films shot in Busan as well as handprints of famous actors.

Passing the Suyeongman Yacht Stadium and walking a bit further, you will reach Minrakgyo Bridge, the endpoint of this course. If you want to walk more, you can cross the bridge and continue along Galmaetgil Section 2-2, which leads through Gwangalli Beach to Igidae.