Eulsukdo Island, a beautiful cultural feast with migratory birds

WHY VISIT

It is a place where the main stem of the Nakdonggang River and the seawater of the South Sea intersects with each other, an ecological repository of rich soil and freshwater fish and shells, and a large-size winter home to migratory birds looking for enough food. Let’s visit Eulsukdo Island, one of Busan’s most beautiful islands. Eulsukdo Island was formed over time as soil accumulated at the foot of the Nakdonggang River. As the name suggests, which means a “clean island with birds,” it is widely known as Korea’s No. 1 bird sanctuary. Particularly in the 1950s, it was considered as Asia’s largest habitat for migratory birds. Thus, it is highly recommended that you begin your journey to Eulsukdo Island at the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center, where you can drop by Amisan Observatory and Eulsukdo Migratory Bird Park and enjoy various exhibitions on the ecological system of the Nakdong Estuary. The Nakdong Estuary Eco Center was reopened in May 2024 after renovation with the concept of "Zoom-in on Eulsukdo Island." Visitors can observe and experience Eulsukdo Island's beautiful four seasons and wildlife, such as migratory birds, in a more engaging way through educational programs and exhibitions. At Eulsukdo Cultural Center, 10 min away from the Nakdong Estuary Eco Center, you are invited to various exhibitions and performances with an option to take an advanced cultural course. Other than that, as it has a grass area that can be used as an outdoor stage, you can enjoy diverse concerts or performances out in nature. It is also perfect for taking a quiet walk as it offers a field of reeds, Sculpture Garden, and a pond with a resting area. Behind the Eulsukdo Cultural Center, you can find an impressive building, the façade of which is embraced with ivy leaves that looks as if it had lived a long time ago. In June 2018, the Museum of Contemporary Art Busan was established. Once you enter the building, you will see a large collection of contemporary art in different genres from the first basement level to the second floor for your enjoyment. If you visit the museum during the special exhibition, you will be able to appreciate a wide range of inspiring works by artists leading contemporary art. As it offers a children’s library and a playground in the underground, you can even have a museum tour with your children. This island, where migratory birds coexist with humans, has now become a culturally enriched place. ※ Nakdong River Estuary Eco Center: Open as usual during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday, Closed on February 19 (Thu)