Cheap Flights from Shanghai to Busan — $97

More than 6 airlines operate flights from Shanghai to Busan, including Spring Airlines, Jeju Air, Korean Air, Eastar Jet, Shanghai Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $97, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

The majority of the 5 airlines on the Shanghai — Busan route fly daily, while some operate only on certain days: Korean Air, China Eastern Airlines, and Shanghai Airlines fly every day. Spring Airlines flies every day except Thursday. Jeju Air only flies on Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday.

Shanghai is served by two main airports with distinct roles. Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) functions as the city’s primary international hub, handling most long-haul carriers and full-service airlines; it can be pricier on average but offers extensive global connections. Pudong is about 30–40 km east of downtown; the Maglev plus metro or direct airport express typically take 40–60 minutes and can cost more than local transit, while taxis take around 45–70 minutes depending on traffic. Pros: modern terminals, wide range of international services and amenities; cons: distance from the center and sometimes longer security/immigration waits. Shanghai Hongqiao International (SHA) is usually positioned as a domestic and regional gateway, favored by low-cost and domestic full-service carriers for short-haul routes. Located roughly 13–16 km west of central Shanghai and adjacent to a major rail hub, Hongqiao is often quicker to reach — metro or taxi rides commonly take 20–40 minutes with modest fares, and high-speed train connections can cut travel time for regional trips. Pros: convenience for city access and intercity rail links; cons: fewer long-haul options and potentially more limited international amenities.

Busan is served primarily by Gimhae International Airport (PUS), a mid-sized gateway handling both international and domestic flights and often favoured by low-cost carriers alongside full-service airlines. Located about 20 km west of Busan’s downtown, travel to the city center typically takes 30–50 minutes by subway or bus and around 40 minutes by taxi depending on traffic; expect public transit fares to be modest and taxis to cost more. Gimhae can be a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers and regional connections, offering straightforward facilities but fewer long-haul services than major global hubs. Pros: convenient rail and bus links, compact layout; cons: limited late-night options and fewer nonstop long-haul routes.

The cost of a one-way flight from Shanghai to Busan ranges from $95 (September 2026) to $130 (October 2026). On average, the ticket price is about $118–$125.