The staircase was originally located slightly away from its current position before being relocated during urban reconstruction.
During the war, the area served as a focal point for the 'hwan-do' culture, where refugees from all over the peninsula converged.
The sculptures were installed to revitalize the area and preserve its historical significance as a symbol of endurance.
Many of the nearby buildings incorporate architectural styles that survived from the post-war reconstruction period.
40 Stair Culture Tourist Theme Street honors the history of refugees who settled in Busan during the Korean War. The namesake staircase served as a primary meeting point and landmark for displaced families searching for lost relatives or distributing news. The street is currently lined with bronze sculptures depicting 1950s scenes, including a street musician and a person carrying a water jug. The site acts as an open-air exhibition highlighting the socio-economic conditions of post-war Korea. It is connected to the 40-Step Culture Center, which houses a small museum dedicated to the era. The area retains its original steep topography, reflecting the difficult urban development of the period.
At the base of the stairs looking up toward the sculpture of the man carrying a water jug.
Visit the 40-Step Culture Center nearby for context on the historic photos and artifacts before walking the stairs.
Wear comfortable footwear as the area involves navigating steep inclines and stone steps.
Combine this visit with a trip to the nearby Gukje Market for a full historical perspective of Busan's mid-century growth.
Do not mistake this for a commercial shopping street; it is a historical site with minimal retail activity.
