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Daegu, Korea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 10, 2023

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Daegu, Korea. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.

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What do I need to know before moving to Daegu?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Daegu, they said:

"Expats moving to Daegu should be aware that the city is the fourth largest in South Korea, offering a mix of urban conveniences and cultural experiences. The official language is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent, so learning some basic Korean phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living in Daegu is generally lower than in Seoul or Busan, but it's still a good idea to budget carefully. Daegu is known for its hot summers and cold winters, so pack accordingly. The city is also famous for its apples, textiles, and the Daegu International Bodypainting Festival. The city has a robust public transportation system, including buses and a subway system, making it easy to get around. Healthcare in Daegu is of a high standard, with many doctors speaking English, but it's recommended to have health insurance. The city is also home to a number of international schools, making it a suitable place for expats with children. Korean food can be quite different from Western cuisine, with kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi being popular dishes. It's also worth noting that tipping is not customary in Korea. Daegu has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. However, it's important to respect local customs and laws, including those related to noise and public behavior. Finally, South Korea has a mandatory military service for all male citizens, but this does not apply to expats. However, expats should be aware of tensions with North Korea, which can occasionally escalate, although daily life in South Korea is generally unaffected," said one expat who made the move to Daegu.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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