Busan (Pusan)

Pusan is the capital of Kyongsang nam do (province), South Korea. During the Koryo dynasty (10^th to late 14^th century), it was named Pusanpo (Korean pu, meaning "kettle"; san, "mountain" [from the shape of the mountain behind it]; and po, "bay," or "harbour").

Pusan was invaded by the Japanese in 1592. The city was opened to Japanese trade in 1876 and to general foreign trade in 1883. After 1910, when Korea became a Japanese protectorate, the city was the centre of a flourishing trade with Japan.  Under the Japanese (1910-45) the city developed into a modern port, with ferry service connecting the city with Shimonoseki, Japan, and rail lines connecting Korea to China and Russia terminating in Pusan. The city became overpopulated with repatriates from overseas when Korea gained independence in 1945 and again with refugees during the Korean War (1950-53), when it was the temporary capital of the Republic of Korea. During the Korean War (1950-53), Pusan was a major port of entry and supply depot for United Nations forces.

Pusan is now the nation's largest port and second largest city.  Its deep harbour and gentle tides have allowed it to grow into the largest container handing port in the country and the fourth largest in the world, with potential for even more growth.  It has the status of a special city under the direct control of the home minister, with administrative status equal to that of a province

Tourist Attractions:
  Dadaepo Beach, Daesin Park, Pongrae P'algyong (Eight Beautiful Views around
  Pongrae), Songdo Amusement Park, Chasong Theme Park, Haeundae P'algyong   (Eight Beautiful Views around Haeundae).

World Cup Stadium Tel: (051) 888 3541 more stadium info