Busan City’s communication character ‘Boogi’ wins grand prize at Character Awards for second consecutive year

[Financial News] Busan City’s communication character ‘Boogi’ won the grand prize in the local government representative character category at the ‘2026 Korea Character Awards,’ marking its second consecutive win after last year.
According to the city on the 28th, Busan seagull ‘Boogi’ is a character that embodies the city’s history and local identity. Through various activities engaging with citizens, Boogi has conveyed Busan’s vibrancy, humor and warmth.
Boogi has continued to introduce local issues, public messages and local industries in an approachable way, while engaging directly with citizens.
This year, YouTube variety content is being produced to encourage young people in the region to settle there. The content includes ‘The Investigator,’ which introduces local businesses, and ‘Boogi Trip,’ which introduces Busan to tourists, including foreign visitors, showcasing the city’s diverse attractions.
Boogi is more than just a promotional character; it also plays a role as a character that promotes mutual growth and contributes to revitalizing the local economy.
Naver Smart Store ‘Boogi Town,’ which offers Boogi merchandise in one place, is an ongoing sales channel that presents products from local businesses directly to consumers. Bulk purchases by Boogi fans and related organizations continue.
Boogi also handles sales of products from local businesses at events such as the 2026 Character Licensing Fair and the ‘Boogi Sauna’ pop-up store at Hyundai Premium Outlet.
City spokesperson Oh Mi-gyeong said, “This second consecutive grand-prize win reflects the steady recognition of Boogi’s role as a character representing the city government, connecting with citizens and fostering mutually beneficial relationships with local businesses. We will continue to expand content that encourages citizen participation and strengthen collaboration with a wide range of companies, developing Boogi into an asset of Busan’s global city brand.”
[email protected] Kwon Byeong-seok Reporter