G-Star 2012 is a global game exhibition taking place from November 8th through 11th at BEXCO in Busan. It is hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MCST) of Korea together with the Busan Municipal City, and aims to improve the domestic game industry and introduce new gaming trends and the latest technologies. This year, 434 companies from 31 countries (the largest scale to date) will participate in the event under the theme of ‘Game, Touching the World’ Along with the game exhibition, there will be various programs including a business consulting session, recruitment fair, networking party, seminars and talks, game zone, Korea-China Game Culture Festival and so on. Admission is 6,000 won for adults and 3,000 won for children. Tickets are available online (Interpark) and at the door.

A representative international music festival of Busan, the second Busan Maru International Music Festival (BMIMF) is set to run for 5 days from August 30 to September, 3 2011. The festival will be held in various locations throughout the city, including the Busan Cultural Center. Hosted by the city of Busan and managed by the BMIMF organizing committee, the festival’s goal is to develop the regional art sector while building the grounds for forming a robust global cultural infrastructure. The word “maru” is a Korean word that means “the best” and reflects the goals of the BMIMF of becoming one of the most recognized music festivals both domestically and internationally. This year’s festivities, held under the theme “Musical Globalization,” include performances from 37 teams (500 participants) who hail from all over the world.

The Busan Lotus Lantern Festival is an annual tradition that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Buddhist cutlure through the many activities being offered. To celebrate Buddha's birthday, splendid lotus lanterns in different shapes and sizes will be on display.About a month before the festival, the festival committee, supported by the Busan Buddhism Association, starts to invite temples and individuals to participate in the festival. Around 1,700 temples, groups, and related organizations prepare diverse programs such as making lotus lanterns, sharing traditional tea, eating temple food, and celebratory performances.The main events are the Grand Buddhist Ceremony and the Lotus Lantern Parade, both of which attract a lot of spectators regardless of religous order. The Lotus Lantern Parade, followed by the Buddhist ceremony, will take place from Busan Station, Gudeok Playground, and Gwangbok-dong.

Busan International Travel Fair (BITF) offers a look into world travel and culture, with about 210 participating companies from 30 countries. About the Fair: The Busan International Travel Fair takes place at BEXCO, the very location where 2005 APEC was held. This fair is open to everyone interested in travel and culture. BEXCO installed an APEC promotional hall and hosted cultural shows during the 2005 APEC. Korea’s local government bodies will be there to introduce Korea’s provincial tour resources and culture. The Travel Industry section’s participants include local government bodies and travel industries. The International Exchange section’s participants include international companies, cities, and foreign government bodies. Visitors will have access to a variety of information through these sectors. The center stage in the exhibition hall will hold cultural performances from all over the world, and also show promotional screen images. A photo exhibition showing Korea’s major tour sites will also be on display along with souvenirs. Fair Highlights: The Busan International Travel Fair is well known for it large scale free gift events. The main stage displays a car, international flight vouchers, international travel vouchers, hotel accommodation vouchers, and more. Furthermore, each booth offers their very own performances and events. Visitors can win a free calling card and/or other items just by participating in a short quiz or event. Gather travel related information and win some free gifts at the Busan International Travel Fair.

The Centum Beer Festival, sponsored and managed by the Centum Beer Festival Committee and MICErang is is held in Busan’s KNN Centum Plaza every summer. The festival offers diverse snacks and free flow of beer for all of visitors to enjoy its cultural event during the festival.

Polar Bear Swimming Contest is held in every winter that allows participants to swim in the sea, just like a polar bear. It offers an exciting experience to participants and sightseeing to tourists, along with various programs as a famous winter festival. More than 2,000 people from Korea and abroad are expected to be participating in this event as the festival was thought to be one of the best winter festivals in the nation.

During the annual Busan Port Lighting Festival, a myriad of lights illuminate the port area, while various performances and experience programs take place across the city. Some of the highlights of the festival include the hot air balloon station and the International Performance Arts & Art Camp, which stages several light and laser shows.

Busan International Magic Festival is the largest magic festival in Asia. Taking place on the famous Haeundae Beach and at Busan Citizen's Hall, this year's festival is expected to introduce 100 magicians from different countries to perform in various magic shows. What is more, fans of magic will have a chance to interact with noted magic gala shows, Busan International Magic Contest, lectures by noted magicians, global kids magic show, magic dramas, and more, making this festival a unique type of magic festival.

The Busan International Dance Festival (BIDF) is one of the largest dance festivals in Korea. Dancers taking the stage in Haeundae hail from all over the world. This year, the festival is themed under the title 'World Dances, Busan Moves!' In the festival, visitors can be assured to experience an eclectic mix of dancing that showcases a variety of excellent dance styles: classical ballet, modern dance, and more. * Some programs canceled

The Asia Song Festival is one of the most popular music events that aims to do away with the existing cultural barriers by bringing together performers from all across the region. For 2014, the event will take place on November 2, 2014 starting at 6 p.m.