Saha District is a gu in western Busan, South Korea. It has an area of 40.89 km², and a population of about 375,000. About a third of the area is forest land. Saha-gu became a gu of Busan in 1983. It is home to the Seunghak Campus of Dong-A University.
New SAHA - Official English-language website of Saha District Office, providing updates on local news, events, and administrative information.
Culture and Heritage of Saha District
Saha District (Saha-gu) in Busan, South Korea, is a region rich in history and cultural diversity. This district blends a deep-rooted heritage with a vibrant contemporary scene, offering a wide range of experiences for both residents and visitors.
Historical Background
Saha-gu's history dates back to the New Stone Age, with archaeological evidence from the Samhan and Gaya periods. Notable sites include the Neolithic Dadaepo Shell Mound and the Bronze Age Goejeong 1-dong and 2-dong Sites. Despite urban development, these sites highlight Saha's long-standing historical significance.
Historical records from 1740 describe Saha as a strategic defensive area against Japan, with fortifications like the Dadaejin Fortress. Over time, the district underwent several administrative changes, evolving into the modern Saha District as part of Busan Metropolitan City in 1995.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
Saha District is home to several cultural and natural landmarks:
- Molundae: Known for its scenic beauty, with forests, rock formations, and uninhabited islands.
- Dadaepo Beach: A popular sandy beach with a unique sea cave formed by wave erosion.
- Nakdonggang River Estuary Eco-Center: An ecological site for migratory bird conservation.
- Eulsukdo Island: A birdwatcher's paradise, featuring the Eulsukdo Cultural Center and Migratory Bird Park.
- Museum of Contemporary Art, Busan: A hub for modern art with diverse exhibitions.
The district is also celebrated for its Gamcheon Culture Village, often referred to as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan', known for its colorful houses and artistic community.
Educational Excellence
Saha District boasts a strong educational infrastructure with a high density of high schools, including specialized institutions like foreign language and science high schools. The district's commitment to education is evident in its six specialized high schools, attracting students from across the region.
Transportation Development
Saha District is emerging as a key transportation hub in western Busan. Developments include the Gadeokdo International Airport and the eco-friendly, high-speed hydrogen BuTX railway. This transformation enhances connectivity and reinforces Saha's role in Busan's socio-economic growth.
Culinary Scene
The district offers a diverse culinary landscape, from traditional Korean eateries to international cuisines. The Hadan Fifth-Day Market is a notable highlight, featuring stalls with fresh produce and authentic Korean dishes.
Community Engagement
Saha District is known for its strong community spirit, reflected in cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and sporting events. Local initiatives and community centers play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and cultural exchange.
For more information on Saha District's rich history, diverse culture, and community initiatives, visit [newsaha.net](https://newsaha.net/#/history-culture).
[Source: newsaha.net]
Leadership of Saha District
Lee Gap-jun serves as the Mayor of Saha District, in Busan, South Korea. His leadership is characterized by a focus on balancing the district's rich industrial heritage with contemporary developments in various sectors. Mayor Lee's tenure has seen an emphasis on adapting traditional industries to modern economic trends and environmental considerations.
The Mayor oversees the ongoing transformation of the Sinpyeong-Jangnim Industrial Complex, a key industrial area in Saha District, which has historically been a cornerstone of Busan's manufacturing industry. Under his administration, the district is working toward becoming a center for innovative businesses and sustainable development practices.
Mayor Lee Gap-jun's approach toward governance in Saha District involves fostering a community that values both its cultural history and its growth into a dynamic, future-oriented district. His administration aims to create an inclusive and prosperous environment for the residents and businesses of Saha District.
For more information on the Mayor's initiatives and Saha District, visit [Saha District's Official Website](https://newsaha.net/#/greetings).
Administrative divisions
Administrative divisions
Saha-gu is divided into 8 legal dong, which all together comprise 16 administrative dong, as follows:
The Saha District in Busan, South Korea, represents a harmonious blend of historical richness and contemporary progress. Characterized by its diverse cultural landscape, the district is a testimony to South Korea's evolving urban narrative, where traditional values harmoniously coexist with modern advancements.
Key attractions in the district include the Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its vividly colored houses and artistic flair, and Eulsukdo Island, celebrated for its natural tranquility. Dadaepo Beach is another notable landmark, offering a serene coastal experience. These sites exemplify the district's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity.
Saha District is also a hub for education and industry, hosting numerous educational institutions and a burgeoning industrial complex. This blend of educational and industrial growth underpins the local economy and fosters community development. The district's approach to urban planning and community engagement demonstrates its dedication to sustainable growth and maintaining a vibrant, prosperous community that values its unique cultural identity.
Industrial Development in Saha District
The Saha District in Busan plays a pivotal role in South Korea's industrial innovation, particularly through the Sinpyeong-Jangnim Industrial Complex. This complex represents a significant shift from traditional manufacturing to a modern 'Smart Green Industrial Zone.' With investments exceeding KRW 3 trillion, the transformation focuses on integrating Knowledge Industry Centers (KICs), fostering innovation, and emphasizing sustainability. This evolution is revitalizing the district's industrial landscape, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized manufacturers.
Adjacent to Saha District, the development of Eco Delta City (EDC) in Gangseo District complements Saha's industrial growth. EDC is emerging as a center for sustainable development and biotechnological innovation, further enhancing West Busan's industrial and research capabilities.
The planned Gadeokdo New Airport is another key development in West Busan. Aiming to create an integrated 'Tri-Port' network of Port, Railroad, and Airport facilities, this airport is expected to establish a significant logistical hub in Northeast Asia. The airport is also projected to drive advancements in the aviation and E-commerce sectors.
Coupled with Busan's bid for the 2030 World Expo, these developments highlight the city's strategic position in the global arena. The Sinpyeong-Jangnim Industrial Complex, along with adjacent developments like EDC and the Gadeokdo New Airport, underscores Saha District's role in South Korea's journey towards sustainable growth, technological innovation, and international relevance.
Busan, South Korea, is embarking on an ambitious initiative to balance the tourism disparity between its eastern and western regions. As reported by a reporter on [Breeze In Busan](https://breezeinflow.com/bridging-the-tourism-divide-in-busan-east-meets-west/), the city is developing strategies to boost the appeal of West Busan, including the Saha District, to match the popularity of its eastern counterparts.
While East Busan, known for its bustling beaches and modern attractions, has traditionally dominated the tourism landscape, West Busan offers a wealth of cultural and natural beauty that has remained underexplored. This disparity has led to a concentration of tourism-related economic activities in the east, with West Busan hosting a smaller proportion of the city's tourism businesses.
To address this imbalance, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) and Busan city officials are implementing innovative projects and infrastructural developments. These include the ‘Starry Night Busan Night Festa’ and the ‘Busan Sea Festival,’ which aim to draw visitors to the less frequented but equally enchanting areas of West Busan, such as the Gamcheon Culture Village and serene beaches.
Moreover, significant urban development projects, like the West Busan Administration Town in the Sasang District and the North Port Redevelopment Project, are underway. These projects aim to enhance West Busan's role as a regional hub for culture, sports, and economic activities, potentially transforming areas like the Saha District into vibrant centers of tourism and innovation.
The efforts to revitalize West Busan also encompass improvements in transportation and connectivity, making it more accessible to tourists and locals alike. The introduction of improved bus services and promotion of digital navigation tools are steps towards making attractions in West Busan, including those in the Saha District, more reachable and integrated into the broader tourism narrative of the city.
These initiatives represent a concerted effort to create a more balanced tourism landscape in Busan, ensuring that the rich cultural and natural offerings of West Busan, including those in the Saha District, receive the recognition and visitation they deserve.
Seunghaksan Mountain is a notable natural feature within the Saha District. Known for its accessible hiking trails and panoramic views, Seunghaksan is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty within the city's vicinity.
The mountain's trails wind through a diverse landscape, offering hikers the opportunity to experience local flora and fauna. These paths are renowned for their accessibility, making the mountain a suitable hiking location for all skill levels.
At the summit, hikers are rewarded with expansive views of the Saha District and beyond. The panoramic vista from Seunghaksan includes the intricate coastline of Busan, the cityscape, and the horizon where the sea meets the sky. The mountain's summit is particularly popular during sunrise and sunset, providing spectacular views of the surrounding area.
In addition to its natural beauty, Seunghaksan Mountain is also a significant cultural landmark. It offers a unique perspective on the urban development of Busan, juxtaposed against the natural environment. The mountain serves as a reminder of the balance between urbanization and nature conservation in the region.
Seunghaksan Mountain is more than just a recreational area; it's a symbol of the natural heritage and beauty of the Saha District. It is a testament to the district's commitment to preserving natural spaces amidst urban development.
