Find important historical locations commemorating Korea’s fight for independence as well as traditional markets in this southern section of Busan.

The Jung District (or Jung-gu) is a particularly lively spot for shopping and history. A trip to the Jagalchi Fish MarketOpens in a new window is a must for a Busan visit. Up to half the fish sold in South Korea is distributed through this market. See women peddling seafood of all varieties. Sample raw or cooked dishes under a tent called a Pojangmacha and purchase dried seafood to ship home.

Visit another famous shopping area, Bosu-dong Book Street. Since 1945 when Korea ousted Japanese overlords, local residents have been selling books in this location, with as many as dozens of different stores. While Bosu-dong specializes in books, the nearby Gukje Market has everything imaginable.

A very notable landmark in the Jung District is the 40-Step Culture and Tourism Theme Street. Before visiting the location, learn about its history in the 1950s and ‘60s. More than 100,000 people were displaced during the Korean War and many made makeshift homes in this humble spot.

Yongdusan Mountain and the tall Busan Tower at its summit rise above the Jung District. See historical monuments in Yongdusan Park and climb the tower for great views of the port during the day and the city lights at night.

Busan Democracy Park or Minju Park celebrates those who championed three democratic revolutions in 20th-century Korea. Visit its Memorial Hall to see images from those events and attend indoor and outdoor concerts in its theatre.

Jung-gu has numerous festivals during the year, several bringing in millions of participants. October has the Busan Jagalchi Festival, with art and events focused on the fishing and seagoing traditions of the neighbourhood. In December see the Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival, which is much more than simply a tree lighting. The Forty Steps Cultural Festival commemorates the sombre period of displacement.

Reach Jung-gu on the efficient Busan subway. Toseong and Jagalchi stations will put you in the heart of the area’s attractions.