If you want to experience South Korea in all its glory while avoiding the major bustle of Seoul, then Busan is the perfect place for you. The city is a diverse tourist destination, and you’ll find everything here, from mountains to beaches.
The city is also known for its juxtaposition of traditional Buddhist temples and modern-day architecture. Find out what all you can do in this amazing city, and be sure to get travel medical insurance.
Busan Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
The risks you’ll face in Busan are no reason for you to not travel there. The city is a beautiful place to visit — it would be a shame if you were to miss out on this wondrous experience. Travel to Busan with confidence with travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Busan?
There is no legal rule from the government of South Korea to buy travel medical insurance before visiting the country. However, for the reasons we will detail below, travel medical insurance is critically important.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Busan?
The reason you need travel medical insurance for your trip to Busan (even though it isn’t legally compulsory) is to secure your finances. Healthcare in a foreign country can prove tremendously expensive. Busan travel medical insurance can help you out with your bills if a medical calamity were to occur while on your trip. Without it, you would be solely financially responsible for the treatment cost of any injury or illness you suffer while in Busan.
So, make the wise decision and buy travel medical insurance. Enjoy your trip to Busan with no worries on your mind.
Things To Do for Travelers in Busan
Haeundae Beach
Busan is known for its beaches. So, if you’re looking for some fun under the sun, Haeundae Beach is the perfect place to start. Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views, or partake in activities such as snorkeling, water skiing, and surfing.
Be sure to check out Dongbaekseom Island while you’re in this area. You’ll find it at the southwestern edge of the beach. It affords magnificent views of the sea.
Gamcheon Culture Village
The vibrant and lively Gamcheon Culture Village needs to be on your list of things to do in Busan. This village is known for its brightly painted houses, colorful streets, and unique cityscape. Head over here to take some of the best pictures of your trip.
The awe-inspiring Gamcheon Culture Village almost acts as an open art museum — some have even called it so. It’s an important part of the culture of South Korea.
Haedong Yonggungsa
Originally known as the “Bomun Temple”, the Haedong Yonggungsa is an ancient Buddhist temple built in the 14th century.
Visit it for its compelling architecture and peaceful seaside views. Explore the colorful Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary and check out the intricate Buddha statues.
Geumjeongsan and Beomeosa
Geumjeongsan is a mountain in the city of Busan. It has four main peaks, with Godang-bong being the highest in the region. It’s a scenic and tranquil place for hiking, and a fabulous picnic spot for families.
Built on the fringes of Geumjeongsan, Beomeosa Temple is worth a visit for anyone heading over to this mountain. With its seamless woodcraft and ancient architecture, the temple fits perfectly into the mountainside greenery.
Yongdusan Park
Deriving its name from the mythical dragon (Yongdusan means “Dragon’s Head Mountain”), Yongdusan Park is a mountain park in central Busan. It contains about 70 species of trees, making it a serene park that is perfect for a pleasant stroll.
Don’t forget to head up to the Busan Tower, the 120-meter-tall tower in Yongdusan Park. Here, you’ll get to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city. There’s even a small café on the tower where you can grab something to eat.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Busan
Smell
The odor in South Korea can require a period of adjustment for some visitors. The fish markets, and the rife kimchi (pickled cabbage) aroma all mingle to bombard the nose with an interesting smell.
Your best bet would be to carry a face mask along with you. This will help you avoid (some of the) smell and protect your senses from an overload. You could also wear large amounts of perfume or deodorant on your body to combat the smell.
Cold
If you visit Busan in the offseason (December to February), you might be in for bitter and chilly weather. While the travel prices in these months are much lower than in the peak season, going in this time period is unwise because of the freezing temperatures you’ll encounter.
This might be a huge turn-off for tourists hailing from warmer countries. It will also spoil your beach and mountain experience; you won’t be able to swim or hike.
Our advice would be to visit in the warmer months. Spring and summer are great times to visit the city (March-August).
Food
Tourists often complain about the food in South Korea. Seafood is all-too-common; if you’re a vegetarian, you’re going to have a hard time here. Specifically, say “no seafood” if you don’t want to end up eating intestines instead of mushrooms.
Soju is a common alcoholic drink here, and it hits hard and fast. Drink only as much as you can handle — or not at all. There are other ways to enjoy yourself on a trip.
Diseases
The open sewers of Busan, along with its proximity to the ocean, make it a breeding place for mosquitoes. As a result, malaria is a common disease here. To stay safe, carry antimalarial medicines and mosquito repellent.
Apart from that, make sure you are vaccinated against tuberculosis, COVID-19, and Hepatitis B.
Typhoons
South Korea experiences a lot of rain in the months of June–September. Although typhoons aren’t all that common, the Southern region does experience them. Busan, being located at the southernmost tip of the country, is most susceptible to typhoons.
Always keep one eye on the weather forecast. Follow the instructions of local authorities if any calamity were to occur during your stay.
Before You Travel to Busan — Do This
Pack the following:
- Mosquito repellent and anti-malarial medicines
- Sunscreen (SPF 35+) to avoid sunburns at beaches
Learn a bit of Korean
South Koreans don’t all speak English. To avoid problems with communication, learn a few basic words and phrases in Korean. It’ll help you communicate with the locals better.
Buy insurance
Don’t even think about traveling to Busan without first buying travel medical insurance.