Site of the 2005 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, this Busan landmark has both modern architecture and a role in history on display in an elegant park.
Right in front of the water, the green lawns and distinctive pines of APEC Naru Park unite Korean landscape design and modern features. The park was built to surround the Nurimaru House, a conference venue built especially for the APEC conference in 2005. Symbolically, the building is an example of “jeongja,” a traditional Korean pavilion, which has been updated for the 21st century with enormous windows and exposed metal beams. Meander along the wide paths, admiring both the architecture and the nature that surrounds it.
Walk to Dongbaekseom Island and listen as the noise of the city gradually fades away. Stroll down to the waterside and admire the Busan skyline, which is often reflected in the water in front of it. Explore the park from the lighthouse that sits at the point to the pier closer to Haeundae Beach. Watch sea-goers frolic in the ocean nearby. Sit on a bench and look out onto the water, perhaps enjoying some Korean snacks.
As you approach the APEC House, notice how the shape of the roof echoes the ridgeline of Dongbaekseom Island. Enter the atrium, where light fills the space even on cloudy days. Sit in the airy spot and look out onto the park that stretches to the sea. Listen to the chatter of tourists from the countries represented at the summit as they explore the site. Join a tour or read about the conference that took place here, an expression of international cooperation among all of the major players on the Pacific stage.
APEC Naru Park is on the shore of the Korea Strait, on Dongbaekseom Island adjacent to Haeundae Beach. Take the subway from the central station in 43 minutes or the bus from the beach in 30 minutes. The closest subway station is 8 minutes away on foot. Come from the airport in an hour by train. Walk the whole length of the park in about an hour.
The APEC building is open to visitors daily during normal business hours. There is no admission fee. Check online for details about tours.
