Busan vs. Pusan — What's the Difference?

Busan is now the standardized romanization based on the current South Korean government's guidelines, reflecting a more accurate representation of the Korean pronunciation. On the other hand, Pusan is how the city's name was romanized under the McCune-Reischauer system, which was used in South Korea before the current system.

This Busan change is part of an effort to standardize the Romanization of Korean names and places, aiming to reduce confusion and promote consistency in the international community. The older name Pusan is still found in historical documents, older maps, and is recognized by people familiar with South Korea before the change.

Busan, as a major international city, has seen significant development in recent years, including hosting major global events like the Busan International Film Festival, which attracts visitors and filmmakers worldwide. Whereas, references to Pusan often evoke the city's rich historical and cultural past, including its strategic importance during the Korean War and its role as a major port city, which played a significant role in South Korea's economic development.

Busan's current prominence in South Korea's tourism, culture, and economy is often highlighted in discussions about the city, showcasing its modern infrastructure, beautiful beaches, and dynamic urban environment. Whereas Pusan might be referenced in discussions focusing on historical contexts or when referring to events and places tied to periods before the romanization change, offering a glimpse into the city's past and its evolution over the years.