Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Following a long history of warfare with it neighbor, Japan defeated the Qing dynasty in 1896 and occupied Korea until the end of World War II followed by a civil war. Then, in 1950, hoping to unify Korea under a Communist government, the north launched a surprise attack and quickly gained control of most of the south. The United Nations intervened and sent troops to help South Korea. North Korean troops drove UN forces down the Korean peninsula to Busan but the city was one of the few cities that was not destroyed or invaded during the Korea War.

During this four-hour excursion you'll visit two sites that preserve the legacy of the war and the soldiers who bravely fought for freedom. There will be a moderate amount of walking so remember to wear a pair of comfortable shoes.

After leaving the pier, you'll be joined by a guide who will point out areas of interest along the way to the Busan Municipal Museum. In addition to a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that date back to ancient times, the museum also showcases the city's dramatic role during the war with a compilation of photos and film footage detailing the conflict.

Just a short distance away is the United Nations Memorial Cemetery. Sprawling out over 35 quiet acres, the cemetery was established by the UN in 1951 as a permanent tribute to the soldiers who died during 1950 to 1953.

A stroll through the immaculate grounds will lead you to the Main Gate, dedicated to fallen UN forces by the citizens of Busan. As you gaze upon the structure note that the roofline is said to symbolize heaven and the support columns in the shape of trees signify life. The surroundings are even more poignant as you walk past the neat rows of stone markers that form the final resting place for 11,000 soldiers and medical personnel from over 16 nations.

Continuing on you'll come to the Memorial Service Hall whose steep, triangular roof represents eternity and symbolically conveys the religious faiths represented in the cemetery. Also in the cemetery, you'll find the stone Monument of Dongnae, which was built in 1670 and sits at the south gate. It now serves as a memorial to those who died in the battle of Dongnae during the Japanese invasions of 1592 to 1598.

Shopping is next on the agenda. The Lotte department store is one of the largest in the country and boasts luxury goods, jewelry, electronics, fashion and more. After you disembark you'll have an hour to shop to your heart's content. After free time for shopping, you will then board the coach for the journey back to the ship.