If you’ve got a layover in Busan, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PUS. The city, in South Korea, is within easy reach — roughly 100 minutes by Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGLRT). Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of PUS:
- Can you legally enter South Korea? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGLRT), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the KRW. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some KRW in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Busan from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Gimhae International Airport into town:
- Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit (BGLRT): About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Luggage storage and lockers are available in both the International and Domestic Terminals, typically near check-in counters or arrival halls.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Busan.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Busan layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Busan.
What to See and Do in Busan
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Busan, two standouts are:
- Gamcheon Culture Village — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Jagalchi Fish Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PUS, check out Sky Hub Lounge or Lotte Duty Free Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near PUS
- In the city: Gaemijip (Nampo-dong Branch) and Jagalchi Market Seafood Restaurants are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Busan.
- At the airport: Palsun and Lotteria (PUS) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PUS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Busan or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PUS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Busan doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 100 minutes from PUS, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.