Busan, South Korea (2024)

I wasn’t very familiar with Busan prior to my arrival. However, I heard that Korea was more traditional as a culture than I’m accustomed. Gay culture seems much more guarded and private than in the other countries I visited in 2024. Upon arrival, I thought I wouldn’t have experienced any LGBT life in Korea and should focus on R&R. If you keep reading, I can give away that there exists some LGBT life, though somewhat shrouded.

Accommodations

• Paradise Hotel Busan – Haeundae Beach. Somewhat dated but a great place to focus and relax. Onsite bar, dining, and spa made for a restful time. The outdoor aromatic hot tubs were a highlight for the hotel. On the bright side, unlike many of the spa areas in Korea, they didn’t appear very concerned that I had a significant amount of tattoos. SpaWorld, for example, had policies against allowing patronage of those with ink.

Things to do:

• For the adventurous, the fish market provided for an amazing dinner one night… from the live calamari that slid down our throats to the cooked white fish, a great experience. Note website in Korean
• Snagged one of the best haircuts that I ever had at Okid Barber (English speaking, cash only)
• Relaxed with cocktails in an LP listening lounge. Great vibes, music, vinyl, atmosphere. Location: Muse On
• Of course, with Korean skincare lines, I kept buying perhaps too much from Olive Young stores. Great value for money.

Gay Life:

• As mentioned earlier, the LGBT scene seemed pretty muted, but what I found was one of the most friendly and welcoming groups in 2024. Even though Busan is Korea’s second city, I figured there would be a larger presence. The bars were found in a somewhat sketchy alley (I gave my location periodically) but when you would enter one of the bars, the hospitality was top notch. Each provided little snacks, good music, and great vibes. Of the three establishments, each capped out at space for less than 20 patrons. The bars: Tool, nix (possibly closed now), and Rock. Rock I think was my favorite, it didn’t hurt that the barkeep was overly friendly and we still follow each other on the gram.

Overall Impression:

Glad I was able to visit Korea, even if for a few days. The food and atmosphere was unlike what I’m accustomed. Most of those we interacted with didn’t speak much english and I hadn’t time to prepare and learn some Korean phrases. However, that was part of the experience. Pointing at pictures of fish I’ve never seen before, navigating the city, and taking in the relaxation at Haeundae Beach. I’d go back if given the option. Perhaps the next time there’ll be more social acceptance of LGBT life or even tattoos.