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Reporting, analysis, and commentary on discover from Breeze in Busan.
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What Are Koreans Really Drinking? Soju, Solitude, and a Culture of Escape
South Korea has one of the highest alcohol consumption rates in Asia, but its drinking problem doesn’t look like chaos—it looks like composure. Soju, once a communal spirit, has evolved into a quiet, everyday anesthetic, deeply woven into food, media, and workplace culture.
8 min read
Why Dwaeji Gukbap Now Costs More Than a Big Mac in South Korea
Dwaeji gukbap, once an affordable Korean comfort food, now costs more than a McDonald’s Big Mac set. Rising inflation, ingredient shortages, and labor costs have driven traditional food prices higher, while fast food remains relatively cheap.
5 min read
Savor the Last Glow of Fall in Gyeongju
As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to wane, the ancient city of Gyeongju offers a final opportunity to revel in the season’s golden splendor. Known as the "museum without walls," Gyeongju seamlessly weaves together Korea’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. This season, the city shines brighter than ever with its Gyeongbuk Millennium Forest Garden, a newly emerging hotspot for breathtaking autumn foliage, and Seongdong Market, where traditional Korean flavors provide warmth and comfort
3 min read
Busan’s 86 Bus and the City’s Secret Scenic Route
Imagine this: as you explore Busan, your favorite music in your ears, you board the 86 bus and let it take you through the winding sanbokdoro roads. With the cityscape and sea unfolding outside, the bus becomes your moving sanctuary—a moment of peaceful reflection. Why not take a break from the hustle, and let the scenic route inspire your own personal journey? Every city has its hidden gems, but few reveal their treasures quite like Busan’s 86 bus. For travelers venturing beyond the polished b
4 min read
How Flour-Based Foods Shaped Korea’s Post-War Diet
How Tteokbokki and Jjajangmyeon Became Korea’s Post-War Comfort Foods Korean cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors and rich cultural history, with iconic dishes like 떡볶이 (tteokbokki) and 자장면 (jjajangmyeon) leading the charge in both local and international popularity. However, what many don’t realize is that these dishes, now beloved staples, owe much of their prominence to the tumultuous period following the Korean War. During this time, Korea faced severe food shortages, especi
11 min read
Top 5 Mountains in Busan for Hiking This September
As summer gives way to September, Busan's mountains take on a fresh, invigorating charm. The oppressive heat of the summer months fades, replaced by crisp mornings and cool breezes, making it ideal for outdoor activities. For nature lovers, hikers, and those simply wanting a break from the bustling streets, the mountains surrounding Busan offer a perfect getaway. September marks the start of the autumn hiking season, where you can witness the first hints of fall colors decorating the forests and
11 min read
How Korean Fermented Foods Like Kimchi Boost Gut Health
Imagine a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds with its vibrant flavors but also fortifies your body from the inside out. This is not a futuristic concept but rather an ancient practice rooted in the culinary traditions of Korea. Korean fermented foods, with kimchi leading the charge, are capturing the attention of health enthusiasts and researchers worldwide. Rich in probiotics, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, these foods are more than just a staple in Korean households—they are a
11 min read