In the Joseon Period (1392-1897) during the reign of King Taejo (1392-1398), the administrative boundary (jin) around Dongnae (located in the central northern part of present day Busan Metropolitan City) was established. Later, during the reign of King Taejong (1400-1418), the "Daeil Gyoyeokjang" (trading center) was also established. By 1470 trade flourished between the Kingdom of Joseon and Japan.
At the same time,
Dongnae’s role in national defence and diplomacy was becoming increasingly important for the expanding kingdom.
During the late Joseon Dynasty, the “Choryangwaegwan”, which acted as a modern-day embassy, served as the site for establishing expanded trade links between the Eurasian Continent and the Far East.
In the 19th century,
Busan's struggle against the imperialist Japanese Empire was stronger than that of any other region.
Upon the outbreak of the Korean War, Busan saw a huge influx of refugees and became the last bastion of national power as the provisional capital.
Busan was upgraded to a “Jikhalsi” (city under direct control of the government) in 1963 and a metropolitan city in
January, 1995.
From the 1950s to the 1980s,
Busan emerged as a leading base for the economic rehabilitation and promotion of democracy in Korea.
Increased foreign competition in the 1990s alongside the Asian financial crisis forced Busan citizens to display their perseverance and ingenuity in the face of economic adversity.
After passing through a long trying, and at times dark, period, Busan is well on its way to emerging stronger and better than ever before.
For further information about Busan, please visit the Busan Museum, Dongsam-dong Shell Mounds, Bokcheon Museum, Chungnyeolsa Shrine, Baeksan Memorial Hall and the many other historical venues in Busan.
To fully enjoy your time while here make the most of what Busan's cultural heritage has to offer.