Busan: Haeundae 100-Minute Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Busan and want to go beyond the typical beach visit, this Haeundae 100-Minute Walking Tour offers a real window into the area’s layered past and vibrant present. While it’s a quick jaunt—only about an hour and a half—it’s packed with stories, scenic views, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning as they walk, love coastal landscapes, and appreciate guides who genuinely know their stuff.

Two aspects we particularly like about this tour are the expert storytelling—the guide’s insights bring Haeundae’s history to life—and the stunning coastal vistas, especially at Dongbaek Island. As one reviewer notes, “Ingyu Kim was an incredible guide, balancing interesting facts with fun anecdotes.” The main potential drawback? The tour involves walking approximately 2 kilometers and includes a hill about 50 meters high, so those with mobility issues or tight schedules might want to plan accordingly.

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy small-group settings, value expert guides, and want to gain a meaningful understanding of Haeundae’s evolution from a humble fishing village to a bustling city hub. It’s a perfect way to kickstart your understanding of Busan’s cultural landscape.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: Guides share local stories that deepen your appreciation of Haeundae’s heritage.
• Scenic stops: From Haeundae Beach to Dongbaek Island, each spot offers picturesque views and historical insights.
• Short but rich: Despite its brief duration, the tour packs in a lot of information and local color.
• Inclusive and accessible: Suitable for all fitness levels, with small groups enhancing personalized attention.
• Great value: For $27, you get expert guidance, engaging stories, and a memorable coastal walk.
• Highly praised guides: Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, patience, and enthusiasm.

We loved the way this tour turns what could be a simple walk along the beach into a storytelling session that actually sticks. It’s not just about seeing sights but understanding the stories behind them—stories that reveal how Haeundae grew from a quiet fishing village into one of South Korea’s most iconic destinations.

The tour begins at the former Haeundae Station, a site that once played a pivotal role during the Japanese colonial period. We learned how the railway helped transform the area, paving the way for its rise as a hot spring retreat and tourist hotspot. The old station has now been repurposed into the Blue Line Park, offering a glimpse of the past amid modern attractions. Our guide, Ingyu, shared fascinating details, making it clear that these tracks once connected Haeundae to the rest of Korea and fueled its growth.

Next, we wandered along Gunam-ro, a lively street lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Here, the focus shifts to Gunam Oncheon, Korea’s only seaside hot spring**. Many visitors overlook this part, but it’s a cornerstone of Haeundae’s identity. The hot spring’s reputation as a royal retreat contributed to the area’s cultural cachet—think of it as Korea’s own spa town before the skyscrapers arrived. Our guide explained how this history influences today’s vibrant seaside scene.

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Diving into Haeundae Beach

No visit to Haeundae is complete without a stop at the iconic Haeundae Beach. While many see it as just a sunny stretch of sand, we learned it’s a site with a layered history—particularly during the Korean War, when it served as a U.S. military base. The stories of how this strategic location shaped the area’s development deepen your appreciation for what now seems like a postcard-perfect beach.

The beach’s transformation from wartime military site to leisure paradise epitomizes South Korea’s rapid growth. It’s surprising how much history is packed into this stretch of sand, and our guide helped us see beyond the crowds to the stories that shaped its identity.

Dongbaek Island: Coastal Views and Cultural Legacy

The tour concludes at Dongbaek Island, a peaceful spot that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Here, we explored the story of Choi Chi-Won, an esteemed scholar who famously named Haeundae. The mythology and history intertwined here make it a notable highlight. As one reviewer pointed out, “Ingyu’s stories about Choi Chi-Won added a layer of cultural depth to the scenic beauty.”

Walking along the coastal path, you’ll see stunning vistas, but the real value lies in the stories that breathe life into the scenery. Plus, Dongbaek Island provides the perfect backdrop for photos and reflection—a fitting ending to a rich, compact tour.

At just $27 per person, this guided walk is a steal considering the depth of insight and the quality of storytelling. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures plenty of personalized attention, and the use of wireless transmitters keeps everyone engaged without shouting or crowding.

What makes this experience stand out is the guide’s expertise—many reviews highlight guides like Ingyu for their knowledge and patience. His ability to balance facts with engaging anecdotes makes the stories memorable and the walk enjoyable. Plus, the accessible route means most travelers, regardless of fitness level, can comfortably enjoy it.

You might find that the tour’s focus on local stories and landmarks reveals layers of Haeundae that casual visitors might miss. The combination of scenic beauty, historical relevance, and cultural storytelling makes this a well-rounded introduction to the area.

Stop 1: Former Haeundae Station

The tour kicks off at the Old Haeundae Station, an evocative site that marks the start of the area’s development during the Japanese colonial era. We learned how the Donghae-Nambu railway connected Haeundae to other parts of Korea, shaping its growth as a seaside resort. Today, the old station space has been transformed into Blue Line Park, where remnants of the past coexist with modern design.

This stop offers more than just photos—it’s a story about how infrastructure can influence cultural change. The guide’s detailed storytelling helps you see this history in the context of today’s bustling Haeundae.

Stop 2: Haeundae Beach

Next, we headed to the famous Haeundae Beach, renowned for its wide sandy shore and lively atmosphere. Beyond the tourist spots, our guide shared that the beach played a significant role during the Korean War, serving as a U.S. military base. The stories about how the area transitioned from wartime to leisure destination reveal Haeundae’s resilience and adaptability.

You’ll love the views, especially when the guide points out the skyline and the historical sites hidden behind the modern high-rises. It’s a reminder that even the most iconic beaches have stories beneath their surface.

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Stop 3: Gunam-ro and Hot Springs

Walking along Gunam-ro, you’ll see the vibrant local life and learn about Gunam Oncheon, Korea’s sole seaside hot spring. This area once attracted royalty and high society, shaping the cultural fabric of Haeundae. Our guide explained how this legacy influences the area’s current reputation as a luxurious yet accessible spa town.

This part of the walk offers a glimpse into Korea’s wellness traditions and the area’s historical significance as a retreat.

Stop 4: Haeundae Atelier Chik Chik Pok Pok / Old Station

This is where the old railway station is now a cultural spot, linking past and present. The story of the railway’s impact on Haeundae’s development is fascinating—how it turned a sleepy fishing village into a bustling resort. The guide skillfully connects these historical dots, making the past feel vibrant and relevant.

Stop 5: Dongbaekseom (Dongbaek Island)

Finally, we circle around Dongbaek Island, visiting the site associated with Choi Chi-Won, one of Korea’s most revered scholars. The island offers stunning coastal views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection. The guide told stories that blend myth and history, adding depth to the scenic experience.

This stop is ideal for photos and quiet contemplation, ending the tour on a high note.

Walking Difficulty: The route is easy, suitable for all fitness levels, with no major challenges. Expect to walk around 2 kilometers, including a hill about 50 meters high—something to keep in mind if mobility is a concern.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes, with some stops slightly longer for stories and exploration.

Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, offering a personalized experience.

Cost: $27 per person, which we believe offers excellent value given the depth of storytelling and the small-group intimacy.

Meeting Point: In front of Exit 4 at Haeundae Station, at the Haeundae Atelier Chik Chik Pok Pok. Directions are straightforward—take the subway to Haeundae Line 2, exit, find the guide with a flag.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. Also, the wireless transmitters provide a clear audio experience, but personal wired earphones are suggested for hygiene.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

If you’re curious about local history, culture, and coastal scenery, this tour is for you. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prefer small groups and expert guides, as you’ll get personalized insights. Families with older children (over 10) will enjoy the stories and manageable pace, but it’s not suited for very young kids or those with mobility issues requiring assistance.

Those interested in South Korea’s wartime history, scenic coastal landscapes, or local legends will find this tour engaging and informative. It’s a fantastic way to kickstart your visit to Busan, providing context that will enrich your entire trip.

In our view, this Haeundae walking tour offers a rare mix of storytelling, scenic beauty, and cultural insight—all for under $30. The guide’s depth of knowledge and personable style turn a simple walk into a memorable experience. It’s a great value for those wanting a meaningful introduction to Busan’s most famous seaside district.

This tour is best for travelers who enjoy learning on the go, appreciate scenic coastal views, and want to hear local stories from someone who knows the area inside-out. Even if you’re only in Busan for a short time, it provides a compact but comprehensive look at Haeundae’s past and present.

If you’re seeking an authentic, engaging, and scenic way to explore Busan, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s not just a walk—it’s a journey through the history and soul of one of South Korea’s most beloved beaches.

How long is the walking tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering about 2 kilometers of easy walking.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of Exit 4 of Haeundae Station at Haeundae Atelier Chik Chik Pok Pok and returns to the same spot after the walk.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for travelers over 10 years old. It’s designed for those comfortable with walking and light hills.

How much walking is involved?
Expect to walk around 2 kilometers total, with some stops. The route includes a hill about 50 meters high.

What language is the guide?
The tour guide speaks English, providing clear and engaging commentary throughout.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and possibly a sun umbrella on sunny days. Wireless transmitters are provided for clear audio.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is flexible—reserve now and pay later.

If you’re interested in uncovering the stories behind Busan’s most iconic coastal spot, this Haeundae Walking Tour offers a well-balanced, engaging experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s evolution.

You can check availability for your dates here: