First held in Shanghai, China, in May, 1993, membership for the East Asian Games currently numbers ten countries. Each country takes its turn in hosting the sporting games every four years in the spirit of building friendships and harmony through exchange and cooperation in sports activities.

The upcoming second Pusan East Asian Games will be carried out under the motto, "Opening a Peaceful Festival Together, Bringing East Asians Together". With more than 2,100 athletes from nine countries, Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Guam, Macao, and Mongolia, competing in 13 official events, including track and field, soccer, swimming, and gymnastics.

Pusan, the venue city of this year's East Asian Games, is Korea's largest port city. Located at the southeastern tip of the Korean peninsula, this bustling city of 4 million citizens has long played a vital role as a center for international trade and commerce. Pusan boasts a mild oceanic climate year round. It features many famous tourist attractions including Haeundae beach, Taejongdae resort, Five-six islets, and Chagalchi Fish Market. In addition to the sporting events, the upcoming Games will include international forums, a citizens' operatic performance, and cultural events, such as a stamp exhibition. It is anticipated that these events will serve as a good opportunity to promote Pusan's unique place on the world's cultural landscape.