Creator Busanpedia

Hi! Could you please introduce yourself to the readers of Visit Busan Magazine?

Hi, my name is Yang Hyoyoung, but most international friends call me Young.
I grew up in Busan and left after college to work and study in the United States. After spending considerable time away from both Busan and South Korea, I eventually decided to settle back home.
While the world is beautiful and every place has its own unique charm, my experiences abroad helped me realize just how amazing my country and city truly are. Ive been rediscovering my hometown ever since I returned.

What do you consider the most important when creating content?

The most important thing for me is relevance and responsibility.
I always try to put myself in the shoes of someone who is planning a trip to Busan or who is curious about Korean culture. What would genuinely be useful for them?
During the pandemic, for example, I shifted my focus toward places where people could maintain social distance while still enjoying the city, like outdoor trails, quiet beaches, or cultural sites with more open spaces.
That experience taught me that content isnt just about promoting a destination. Its also about caring for the people who will use it.
At the same time, I try to balance popular landmarks with lesser-known spots. Of course, places like Haeundae Beach or Gamcheon Culture Village are must-sees, but I also love introducing visitors to smaller alleys, local markets, and hidden cafés that give them a sense of the citys everyday rhythm.
Finally, I think engagement matters a lot. Busanpedia isnt meant to be a one-way broadcast.
I try to respond to questions and DMs about Busan, Korean culture, and language as well. That way, Busanpedia becomes more of a community than just a channel.

What is your personal favorite place in Busan, aside from the ones loved by your readers?

Busan is famous for its beautiful beaches such as Haeundae, Gwangalli, and Songdo. Since those spots are already very well known, I usually prefer to spend time in places that feel quieter and more personal.
My favorite places are Ahopsan Forest, Hwamyeong Arboretum, and the many beautiful cafés with ocean views.
Ahopsan Forest is a peaceful escape into nature. Its a bamboo forest with walking paths that feel almost untouched. It takes a little effort to get there, but once you arrive, youre rewarded with quiet scenery that feels far removed from the city.
Hwamyeong Arboretum is another hidden gem. Its not as famous as the beaches or larger parks, but it has such a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The arboretum features themed gardens and greenhouses. Its especially beautiful with its colorful foliage and shaded pathways that make it perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk.
I also love the many cafés along the coast that overlook the ocean. Sitting with a cup of coffee while listening to the waves is one of the best ways to experience Busan.
So while Busans beaches are iconic and always worth a visit, I find my joy in the forests, the arboretum, and the cozy oceanfront cafés that reveal a quieter and more reflective side of the city.

Which piece of your work do you find the most memorable?

The best part of running Busanpedia is that every project feels like a journey to a beautiful part of Busan.
Because of that, its really difficult to choose just one memorable piece of work. If I had to pick, though, it wouldnt be about a specific destination but rather an experience.
In 2022, BTS held a concert in Busan to support the citys bid for the 2030 Expo.
Unfortunately, I couldnt get a ticket to the concert itself, but I still went to the Asiad Stadium just to feel the atmosphere. The scene was unforgettable. People from all over the world had gathered, and the entire area was filled with energy and excitement.
That day made me realize two things.
First, Busan has everything it needs to become a true global destination if we create the right content and prepare well. Second, what a global phenomenon BTS truly is.

What kind of city is Busan to you? If you had to describe Busan in just one word, what would it be, and why?

If I had to choose one word, it would be “balance.”
Busan is a city that somehow manages to combine contrasts in a natural way.
On one side, you have skyscrapers, global events, and a fast-paced lifestyle. On the other hand, you have quiet fishing villages, green trails, and wide-open beaches. The city has both the energy of a bustling metropolis and the calm of nature, and the two coexist seamlessly.
For me, that balance reflects not just the geography of Busan but also its spirit.
Its a place where tradition and modernity, locals and travelers, city life and natural beauty all meet. And thats what makes Busan unique. You dont have to choose one or the other; you can experience all of it together.

As a creator, what kind of stories would you like to share through Visit Busan in the future?

Through Visit Busan, Id love to continue sharing stories that go beyond the obvious highlights.
Of course, Ill always cover the landmarks and popular attractions, but I think what makes travel truly memorable are the details and personal experiences. It could be the warmth of a market vendor, the atmosphere of a small neighborhood café, or the story of a local artist. These little moments might not make it into the guidebooks, but theyre what travelers take home in their memories.