Navigate Busan:
Summer Travel Tips for IFLA WLIC 2026

Arriving in Busan in August, visitors are welcomed by the energy of a coastal city in full summer, where sunlight, sea breeze, and the rhythm of the shoreline shape the atmosphere from the moment they arrive. For participants of WLIC 2026, Busan offers more than just a venue, inviting opportunities for discovery both within and beyond the congress.

© Busan Metropolitan City, [Gwangalli Beach]

Your Arrival: Getting to Busan and BEXCO

Many participants will arrive via Gimhae International Airport, located approximately 30 minutes from central Busan. From the airport, BEXCO in Centum City can be reached by airport limousine bus, subway, or taxi, depending on individual travel preferences and luggage needs.

Gimhae International Airport Transport Information:

Airport Limousine Bus to BEXCO

  • Route: Haeundae/Gijang Route
  • Stops: Shinsegae Centum City and BEXCO
  • Boarding Location: Platform 3, 1st floor of both international and domestic terminals
  • Fare: KRW 9,500, credit card only
  • Operating hours: First bus 07:10 / Last bus 21:40

Subway to BEXCO

This option is useful for travellers with light luggage and those who prefer public transport.

  • Route: Gimhae International Airport Station → Sasang Station (Line 2)→ Centum City Station or BEXCO Station
  • Transfer: Take the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit from Gimhae International Airport Station and transfer to Subway Line 2 at Sasang Station

Taxi to BEXCO

Taxi services are available at Gimhae International Airport and provide a direct option to the Centum City and BEXCO area. Travel time and fare may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Incheon International Airport

For participants arriving via Incheon International Airport, the most common ways to reach Busan are by domestic flight or by KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Busan Station. KTX tickets are generally available up to one month in advance.

Note: Timetables and fares are subject to change. Please check the official airport transport page before departure.

Getting Around: Smart and Efficient Travel in Busan

Busan is a visitor-friendly city with a reliable and easy-to-navigate public transport system. For added convenience when using local public transport, visitors may wish to use a rechargeable transport card or purchase single-use tickets, as some international contactless payment cards have limited compatibility.

For a smoother travel experience, the following transport resources and services may be useful:

  • Visit Busan

The official tourism platform of the city of Busan with maps, guides, and visitor information.

  • Badaga

The Official Webzine of Busan Metropolitan Corporation. Currently available only in Korean, but browser translation features can be used.

  • Busan is Good

Busan Metropolitan City’s official English information platform. The website provides useful information on Busan’s culture, tourism, events and daily life for international visitors and residents.

  • Travel Preparation Information

Practical travel information, including luggage services at Busan Station.

  • Local Rechargeable Transport Card (Buses and Subways)

Hanaro Card, T-money, and Cashbee can be used on buses and subways throughout Busan. Cards can be purchased and recharged at subway stations, convenience stores, and other designated locations.

  • Taxi Apps

Kakao T and Uber Taxi are available in Busan for booking licensed taxis and may be especially useful when travelling with luggage, late at night, or to areas less accessible by public transport.

A tourist pass offering access to major attractions and selected transport benefits.

  • BUSAN Pay
    (*City bus fares require the physical BUSAN Pay card.)

Integrated service for foreign visitors offering shopping payments, transport services, tourist passes, and travel information. Metro passes (1-day and 3-day) and taxi fare payments are supported.

  • Busan City Tour Bus

Convenient sightseeing bus service connecting major tourist attractions across Busan.

Navigation Tips: Using Local Map Apps

Navigation in Korea may differ from other countries, as global map services can have limitations in accuracy and routing. Locally developed apps are widely used and can be helpful for finding routes, checking public transport, and moving around Busan efficiently.

© Busan Metropolitan City, [Busan City Tour]

Map and navigation service with English support.

  • Naver Map
    (Web / App Store / Google Play)

Map and navigation service with Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese support.

Subway navigation app with English support.

  • Busan Subway Routes and Station Information (Web)

The official Busan Metro route map and station information.

Payments and Connectivity: What to Expect

Korea has a well-established digital payment environment, and card payments are widely accepted in most urban areas. However, some international cards may have limited compatibility depending on the merchant or payment terminal. For convenience, visitors are encouraged to carry a physical card and a small amount of Korean won (KRW).

Card Payments

  • International credit cards are generally accepted in most tourist areas
    (e.g., hotels, restaurants, shops, and major tourist areas)
  • Physical Visa or Mastercard cards are recommended
  • Some terminals may require card insertion rather than contactless payment

 

Contactless and Mobile Payments

  • Contactless payment is available, though acceptance may vary by merchant and terminal
  • Tip: Carrying a physical card is recommended in addition to mobile payment options
  • Mobile payment Services:
  • Samsung Pay: Widely used in Korea
  • Apple Pay: Available, but not accepted everywhere
  • Google Pay: Limited support

 

Currency Exchange

  • Local currency: Korean won (KRW)
  • Exchange locations: Banks, authorised exchange centres, and airport counters
  • Tip: Some banks may have limited operating hours on weekends and holidays, so preparing some cash in advance is recommended.

 

ATM Tips

  • Recommended ATM: Major commercial bank ATMs or ATMs marked for international cards
  • Commonly accepted cards: Visa and Mastercard; AMEX availability may be more limited depending on the ATM network
  • Tips:
    • Fee: Convenience store ATMs are easy to find but may charge higher transaction fees.
    • Currency selection tip: When withdrawing cash, selecting KRW rather than your home currency may help reduce additional currency conversion fees.
© Busan Tourism Portal, [Seaside Temple Busan]

Summer in Busan: Plan for the Climate

August is the height of summer in Busan, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 28 to 32°C. Given the city’s warm coastal climate, light and breathable clothing, sun protection, and a compact umbrella for occasional summer showers are recommended.

Most indoor facilities—including BEXCO, public transport, hotels, and shopping centres—are well air-conditioned. Visitors may also find a light outer layer useful indoors, along with a portable fan when travelling around the city.

Planning routes in advance with navigation apps can help make travel between the congress venue and nearby areas more efficient. With a little preparation, WLIC participants can enjoy Busan’s summer atmosphere comfortably throughout their stay.