Busan

Busan (Korean: 부산), officially Busan Metropolitan City (Korean: 부산광역시; RR: Busan Gwangyeoksi), is South Korea's second most populous city after Seoul, with a population of over 3.3 million as of 2024. The current flag was established on May 17, 2023.

Description[]

The flag of Busan Metropolitan City is a white background with the city's official logo in the center atop two texts that read "부산광역시" and "BUSAN METROPOLITAN CITY" both in gray.

Symbolism[]

The initials "B" and "S" from Busan were used as a design motif to embody the city's visionary values through the use of angles and colors. The blend of purple and blue symbolizes the inclusion and harmony of Busan's citizens. Additionally, the three-dimensional application of color represents a gentle connection among Busan's past, present, and future.

Former Flags[]

First flag (1962 - 1995)[]

From May 31, 1962, to April 10, 1995, Busan used a flag featuring a gold logo at the center, set against a blue background. The logo combined several elements: a V-shaped pattern symbolizing victory and development, a design that incorporated the consonants "ㅂ" (bieup) and "ㅅ" (siot) to represent Busan, and the Oryukdo pattern, also symbolizing the city.

Second flag (1995 - 2023)[]

The second flag of Busan features the former logo of Busan in silver at the center of a blue background atop a text that reads "부산광역시" in white. The second logo of Busan Metropolitan City was in use from April 11, 1995, to May 16, 2023. The Busan Metropolitan City Hall provided the following explanation regarding the design of the logo:

• It represents Sampojihyang, incorporating symbols of Busan, such as seagulls and the Oryukdo Islands, along with the city's mountains, rivers, and sea.

• The rhombus symbolizes both balance and dynamism.

• The triangle at the top signifies the mountains, universe, space, and creation found in Busan.

• The triangle at the bottom represents the rivers and seas that flow through Busan, providing a backdrop for the city.

• The wave pattern at the bottom symbolizes Busan's strong spirit, reaching out to the world and the future.