Planning a trip from Penang to Busan? Whether you’re visiting family, exploring South Korea’s vibrant coastal city, or just looking for a new adventure, flying between these two destinations is both exciting and practical. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from flight options and layovers to airport facilities and top Busan attractions—so you can travel with confidence and enjoy every moment. Book your journey through Traveloka for the best deals and hassle-free booking experience.
Direct Flights
No direct flight is currently available between Penang International Airport (PEN) and Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan. All travelers will need to plan for at least one layover in another city.
Layover Flights
Below are several popular layover routes for journeys from Penang to Busan. Each option offers a unique experience depending on your preference for airlines, layover times, and overall journey duration.
1. Penang (Malaysia) → Shanghai (China) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: Shanghai Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 26 hours 20 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737
- Layovers: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai, China: 23 hours 55 minutes (overnight)
This route involves a long overnight layover in Shanghai, making it ideal for travelers who wish to rest or explore the city before continuing to Busan.
2. Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Manila (Philippines) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 21 hours 30 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A321
- Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: 3 hours 55 minutes Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), Manila, Philippines: 8 hours 40 minutes (overnight possible)
This multi-stop route is best for travelers seeking more flexibility or wanting to break up their journey with extended layovers in two dynamic cities.
3. Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Incheon (South Korea) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Korean Air
- Total Flight Duration: 11 hours 10 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A330, Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger
- Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: 1 hour Incheon International Airport (ICN), Incheon, South Korea: 1 hour 15 minutes
This is one of the fastest routes with minimal layovers, making it ideal for travelers who want to reach Busan quickly and comfortably.
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Penang Intl – Penang
Location
Penang International Airport (PEN) is located in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of Georgetown, the capital city of Penang, Malaysia. The airport serves as a major gateway to Penang Island and the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia.
Airport Terminal
Penang International Airport has a single main terminal with two levels. The arrivals area is on the ground floor, while the departures and check-in counters are located on the upper level. The airport offers modern amenities, making it a comfortable place to begin or end your journey.
Transport to Airport
Travelers can reach the airport via several transportation options:
- Taxi/Grab: Available throughout Penang, with a ride to the city center taking about 20–30 minutes.
- Public Bus: Rapid Penang buses connect the airport to various parts of the island.
- Car Rental: On-site car rental services are available for those who prefer to drive.
Facilities
Penang International Airport provides a range of facilities, including:
- Dining options: Local and international food outlets.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops and retail stores.
- ATMs and Currency Exchange: Convenient for international travelers.
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminal.
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for travelers’ religious needs.
For more information or to book your flight, visit Traveloka’s page for Penang Intl.
About Gimhae Intl – Busan
Location
Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is located in Gangseo District, about 10 kilometers west of Busan’s city center. It serves as the main airport for Busan and the surrounding region.
Airport Terminal
Gimhae International Airport features two main terminals: the International Terminal and the Domestic Terminal. The airport is well-organized, with clear signage in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese, making it easy for international travelers to navigate.
Transport From Airport
There are several convenient ways to reach Busan city center from the airport:
- Airport Bus: Multiple bus routes connect the airport to various parts of Busan.
- Subway: The Busan–Gimhae Light Rail Transit (LRT) connects the airport to Sasang Station, where you can transfer to Busan’s metro system.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available and offer direct service to your destination.
- Car Rental: Car rental counters are located in the arrivals area.
Facilities
Gimhae International Airport offers a range of amenities, including:
- Dining: Cafés, restaurants, and fast food outlets serving Korean and international cuisine.
- Shopping: Duty-free shopping, souvenir shops, and convenience stores.
- Currency Exchange and ATMs: Available for travelers needing local currency.
- Free Wi-Fi: Accessible throughout the airport.
- Luggage Storage: Convenient for travelers with long layovers.
For more information or to book your flight, visit Traveloka’s page for Gimhae Intl.
FAQ Penang to Busan Flight
- Are there any direct flights from Penang to Busan? No direct flights are available. All flights require at least one layover.
- Which airlines operate flights from Penang to Busan? Major airlines include China Eastern Airlines, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Singapore Airlines.
- What is the typical duration of a flight from Penang to Busan? Most layover flights take between 11 and 26 hours, depending on the route and number of layovers.
- What are the main layover cities for this route? Common layover cities include Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Incheon.
- How do I book a flight from Penang to Busan? You can book flights easily through Traveloka, which offers competitive prices and a user-friendly booking process.
- What should I do if my flight is delayed? Contact your airline for updates and check airport information screens. Most large airports have lounges and amenities to keep you comfortable during delays.
- Are there any visa requirements for traveling from Malaysia to South Korea? Malaysians do not need a visa for short tourist stays (up to 90 days) in South Korea.
- What is the best time of year to fly from Penang to Busan? Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are the most pleasant times to visit Busan, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
Other Ways to Travel From Penang to Busan
While flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Penang and Busan, other options—though less practical—do exist. Here are some alternative routes and methods:
- By Sea: There are no direct passenger ferries between Penang and Busan. Travelers would need to arrange a multi-leg journey by ferry and land transportation, which would take several days and involve multiple country transfers.
- By Rail or Bus: There are no direct rail or bus connections between Malaysia and South Korea. Overland travel would require crossing multiple countries and using various modes of transportation, making it impractical for most travelers.
- By Land and Sea via Multiple Countries: This route would be extremely time-consuming and involve crossing borders in Southeast and East Asia, requiring extensive planning and multiple visas.
Given these limitations, flying remains the recommended and most efficient way to travel from Penang to Busan.
Explore Busan
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and vibrant culture. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss.
Popular Destinations in Busan
- Haeundae Beach: Busan’s most famous beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and winter festivals.
- Gamcheon Culture Village: A colorful hillside village known as the “Santorini of Korea.”
- Busan Tower: Iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
- Jagalchi Market: Korea’s largest seafood market, where you can enjoy fresh catches and local delicacies.
- Beomeosa Temple: A serene historic temple nestled in the mountains, offering a glimpse into Korea’s spiritual heritage.
Popular Cuisine in Busan
- Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Pancake): A savory pancake filled with fresh seafood and green onions.
- Jjigae (Korean Stew): Busan is famous for its spicy seafood stews.
- Ssiat Hotteok (Stuffed Pancake): A sweet winter snack filled with brown sugar, nuts, and seeds.
- Millet Makgeolli: A traditional Korean rice wine, often served with Korean dishes.
- Gukbap (Rice Soup): A hearty soup with rice, popular as a comfort food in Busan.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your journey from Penang to Busan. Whether you’re looking for the best flight deals, exploring airport amenities, or discovering what Busan has to offer, Traveloka is your trusted partner for a smooth and memorable travel experience. Book your tickets today through Traveloka and embark on your next adventure!