Foreign visitors to Busan surpass 3 million mark for first time since 2014
Busan has hit a significant milestone in its tourism figures, with foreign visitors surpassing 3 million for the first time since 2014. The achievement is part of the city’s ambitious goal to attract 5 million foreign tourists by 2028, and efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure are underway.
As of October 2025, Busan welcomed a total of 3,019,164 foreign visitors. Among the top countries of origin for tourists were Taiwan, China, Japan, the United States, and the Philippines. Credit card spending by foreign tourists in Busan surged to about 859.2 billion won ($585 million) through October, a remarkable 31.5 percent increase compared to the previous year.
A survey conducted by the Busan Tourism Organization revealed that visitors spent an average of $828.4 per person during their stay, with an average duration of 6.2 days. This suggests that Busan is becoming increasingly popular as a long-stay destination for international tourists.
Major attractions in Busan, such as Gwangalli Beach, BIFF Square, Gamcheon Culture Village, Gukje Market, and Haeundae Beach, recorded high visitor numbers. Gwangalli Beach, in particular, topped Yanolja Research’s list of “Korea’s Top 500 Tourist Destinations Based on Traveler Sentiment,” indicating its appeal to travelers.
To strengthen its tourism sector further, Busan has outlined various strategies. The city plans to host large-scale cultural events, enhance transportation accessibility, expand its regional tourism offerings, and focus on areas like food tourism and nighttime activities. Furthermore, high-value sectors such as MICE, medical tourism, wellness programs, and staycations will be promoted to attract diverse visitor segments.
Infrastructure projects in the pipeline include the construction of the Busan Opera House, Centre Pompidou Busan, expansion of routes at Gimhae International Airport, and enhancements to Bexco’s exhibition facilities. The city also aims to boost eco and mountain tourism by developing programs around Nakdong River Garden and Geumjeongsan Mountain.
One of the most encouraging findings is that 84.8 percent of foreign tourists expressed a desire to return to Busan in the future. Mayor Park Heong-joon emphasized the city’s commitment to enriching its cultural and tourism offerings, with a focus on creating a memorable experience for visitors. With the goal of welcoming 5 million foreign tourists on the horizon, Busan remains dedicated to solidifying its position as a premier travel destination.