City history
A sprawling coastal metropolis that evolved from a strategic military outpost into South Korea's largest port and a global gateway.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"Eastern Brilliance"
Before the modern rise of Busan, the region was historically recognized as Dongnae, serving as a vital administrative and defensive district during the Joseon Dynasty.
Eastern Brilliance
The region functioned as a key military and administrative center for the southeastern coast.
Cauldron Mountain
The name refers to the mountain shapes in the area, resembling traditional cauldrons.
Chapter two
Following the Korean War, the nation standardized its time to Korea Standard Time, based on the 135-degree east meridian.
Daylight saving time was briefly utilized in conjunction with the international sporting events held in South Korea during this era.
Chapter three
The Joseon Dynasty established Dongnae-bu to formalize the administrative governance of the southeastern coastal territories.
The Treaty of Ganghwa designated Busan as a treaty port, initiating its transformation into a major international maritime hub.
Busan was officially elevated to the status of a metropolitan city, reflecting its massive economic and population growth.