### Document: Analyzing the Most Visited Beaches in Different Nations: Waikiki Beach and Haeundae Beach

When pondering the query of the most visited beach in one's country, diverse answers emerge depending on geographical and cultural contexts. In this detailed exploration, we look into why Waikiki Beach and Haeundae Beach are each considered the most visited beach in their respective nations, the USA (with a specific focus on Hawaii) and South Korea.

### Waikiki Beach, USA

#### Location and Geography
Waikiki Beach is located on the south shore of the island of Oahu, in the state of Hawaii, USA. It stretches approximately two miles from the Waikīkī neighborhood of Honolulu, from the Ala Wai Canal to Diamond Head. Renowned for its golden sand, Waikiki is actually a series of five beaches, each with its own unique charm and popularity.

#### History
The area was a retreat for Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s who enjoyed surfing on longboards here. In the early 20th century, the beach started to gain fame among tourists, notably accelerated by the construction of the Moana Surfrider Hotel in 1901 and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in 1927. These developments were pivotal in transforming Waikiki from a relatively secluded locale to a bustling tourist hub.

#### Current Popularity
Today, Waikiki Beach is a center of activity for tourists. Its appeal lies in its expansive sandy beach, the nearby shops, restaurants, and entertainment, and its excellent conditions for surfing and swimming. Moreover, the beach is backed by the iconic Diamond Head crater adding to its scenic beauty. Cultural showcases, such as hula dancing and outrigger canoeing on the beach, also draw many visitors. The constant influx of international and local visitors makes it one of the most visited beaches in the United States.

### Haeundae Beach, South Korea

#### Location and Geography
Haeundae Beach is situated at the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula, in the city of Busan. It spans approximately 1.5 kilometers and is famed for its fine, white sand sourced from the Chuncheon Stream.

#### History
The history of Haeundae dates back to the Goryeo Dynasty, and it is featured in many historical and cultural anecdotes. Over time, especially after the Korean War, the beach became increasingly popular as a summer retreat spot among Koreans and, later, international tourists. The name "Haeundae" was supposedly derived from a scholar of the Goryeo Dynasty who was inspired by the beauty of the area.

#### Current Popularity
Haeundae Beach is now one of the most acclaimed beaches in South Korea, particularly noted for its bustling atmosphere during summer when tourists from all over the world visit. Key attractions include the Haeundae Sand Festival, where exquisite sand sculptures are displayed. Additionally, the beach is surrounded by modern skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and a vibrant nightlife, making it a cosmopolitan recreation spot. Haeundae also hosts various cultural events and festivals, further attracting a considerable number of visitors each year.

### Comparative Analysis

#### Factors Driving Popularity
Both beaches demonstrate a blend of natural beauty and urban development which significantly contributes to their popularity. Waikiki and Haeundae’s proximity to major city centers (Honolulu and Busan respectively) also add to their accessibility and appeal. Each beach has developed its own unique set of attractions and facilities around the beach which caters extensively to tourists.

#### Visitor Demographics
Waikiki predominantly attracts a high volume of international tourists from North America, Japan, and Australia, while Haeundae sees a mix of local South Korean holiday-goers and an increasing number of visitors from China and Japan.

#### Economic and Cultural Impact
Both beaches play significant roles in their country’s tourism sector, massively contributing to the local economy. They also serve as cultural hotspots where traditional practices and modern leisure activities coalesce, offering a comprehensive experience that reflects their respective countries’ heritage and contemporary lifestyle.

### Conclusion
In conclusion, defining the "most visited beach" in a country largely depends on geographical and cultural specifics. Waikiki Beach in the USA and Haeundae Beach in South Korea each hold the title in their respective countries due to their unique combinations of natural allure, history, development, and the array of activities available. The enduring popularity of both signifies not only their appeal as prime beach destinations but also their importance in the cultural and economic landscapes of their nations.