By Honorary Reporter Laarni Calpo from Philippines

Photo by = Laarni Calpo

When I heard that Busan is bidding to host the 2030 World Expo, I planned a trip to see what makes it stand out from other Korean cities. By hosting the event, the city could emerge as a global symbol of hope, advanced technology and economic stability. I traveled to Busan last year from Nov. 9-12 and the following are my observations on why it is the best city to host the expo.

First, Busan is easy to access for both Korean and non-Korean visitors. Every tourist's nightmare is getting lost in a new place, so I checked the easiest way to navigate Busan. I took the Busan City Tour's Loop Bus conveniently available near Busan Station. Among the four tours, I chose the red line since it aligned with my desired travel route. Transfer from one line to another was also easy with a minimal fee. 

Aside from other tourist spots in Busan, I visited the famed beaches of Gwangalli and Haeundae. The bus also had a tour guide who announced the next stop and the correct exits. I learned that passengers getting off the bus must use the door at the far end so that those getting on can use the front door. What a well-organized system. I also enjoyed the company of the tour guides because most of them were friendly ajumma (older women) dressed in uniform. I kept saying "Gamsahambnida" (thank you) every time they explained which door we should exit from.

Next, I saw the gigantic ports in Busan from inside the bus and the view made me feel like I was on a VIP seat. The state-of-the-art port facilities carried shipments to countries to make Busan the world's sixth-busiest port. I also had a view of the ports from my hotel lobby, and watching the blue sky, calm sea and busy ships while drinking my morning coffee inspired me before starting the day.

Finally, Busan has hosted numerous international events such as the Asian Games in 2022, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2005, 2014 and 2019, and Korean-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Commemorative Summit in 2019, not to mention major cultural programs like the annual Busan International Film Festival. BTS is also the honorary ambassador for the Bid Committee for World Expo 2030 in Busan, Korea, and I made sure to visit spots in the city made famous by the boy band since members Jungkook and Jimin are from there.

Initially, I visited Busan to see its famous beaches and scenery but its peaceful waters, uphill villages and cutting-edge infrastructure created a more diverse image of the city. Busan is far more than just a provincial city and thus it should host the 2030 World Expo.

kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.