By Choi Jin-woo

CNN has highlighted Busan's tourist attractions a month before the official announcement of the host city of the 2030 World Expo, a bid that the nation's largest port hub is gunning for.

In the story headlined "Why now is the time to visit Busan, South Korea's 'second city,'" it said, "Known for its fiery cuisine, cutting-edge technology and hefty pop-cultural output, South Korea is currently enjoying its moment in the spotlight." 

"While the capital, Seoul, gets the lion's share of attention, the country's second city, Busan, has emerged from the big town's shadow to become a worthy destination of its own."

Dubbing Busan a vibrant seaside metropolis, CNN said, "Busan draws travelers lured by its sandy beaches, lively street markets, fresh seafood, cool museums as well as its numerous celebrations and special events, including Asia's largest film festival."

Recommendations included leading tourist spots starting with Haeundae Beach, the city's signature seaside area, and Busan X the Sky, its highest observatory. For art, it suggested Museum 1, a media-specialized contemporary art gallery, and Busan Cinema Center, where the Busan International Film Festival is held every year. 

Other suggestions were Gwangalli Beach in Suyeong-gu District, Gukje (International) Market in the Nampo-dong neighborhood, Amnam Park on Songdo Island and Huinnyeoul Culture Village on Yeongdo Island.

"Start things off at Haeundae Beach, the city's most iconic stretch of sand, where you can stroll next to the waves, sip a coffee, or sample local fish cakes before heading up to BUSAN X the SKY," CNN said. 

"From there it's just a short walk to Blueline Park, the starting point for the Haeundae Sky Capsule. This personal elevated rail car allows you to cruise along the rocky, pine-blanketed edge of Dalmaji Hill while taking in the ample beauty of the shoreline."

"While Busan is a modern, high-tech hub, it's also a treasure trove of historical sites and temples such as Haedong Yonggungsa," it added. "This scenic and serene Buddhist site sits perched on a rise above the surging sea and is a rarity in a country where most temples are found on mountains."

CNN marveled at the natural beauty on Songdo and Yeongdo islands, saying, "As you take it all in, you just may forget that you're in the middle of a modern, bustling city that also happens to be one of East Asia's most underrated gems."

Jagalchi Market was also chosen as one of the best places to enjoy the city's cuisine. CNN called it "the open-air seafood exchange that's not only an intoxicating blast to the senses but also the city's living, beating heart." 

"The market is home to a few choice joints that grill your fish over hot coals and serve it all up with an array of peppery and pungent side dishes."

paramt@korea.kr