Moving to Daejeon, Korea

"Daejeon is a city located in the center of South Korea, known for its technological advancements and educational institutions. The city is home to many research institutes, universities, and high-tech businesses, making it a hub for education and technology. The cost of living in Daejeon is lower compared to Seoul, making it an attractive place for expats looking for a more affordable lifestyle. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a subway system, making it easy to get around. Daejeon is known for its hot springs and mountains, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city has a vibrant food scene, with many restaurants offering traditional Korean cuisine as well as international options. Daejeon has a relatively small expat community compared to other Korean cities, but there are still plenty of resources and groups available for foreigners. Korean is the official language of Daejeon, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent, so learning some basic Korean phrases can be helpful. Healthcare in Daejeon is of a high standard, with many hospitals and clinics available, some of which offer services in English. The city experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, including hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Daejeon is considered a safe city with a low crime rate, but it's still important to take standard precautions, especially at night. The city is less crowded and more laid-back than Seoul, offering a more relaxed lifestyle. Daejeon has a rich cultural scene, with many museums, art galleries, and festivals taking place throughout the year. It's important to respect Korean customs and traditions, as the country is deeply rooted in Confucian principles of respect and etiquette. Lastly, it's recommended to have an international driving license if you plan to drive in Daejeon, as the traffic rules may be different from your home country," replied a member in Daejeon.

"Finding a place to live in Daejeon involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you prefer. This could range from a single room in a shared house (Goshiwon), a studio apartment (Officetel), or a larger apartment. Next, you should decide on the area you want to live in. Daejeon is divided into five districts, each with its own unique characteristics. Yuseong-gu, for example, is known for its universities and hot springs, while Seo-gu is the city's commercial and administrative center. Once you have a clear idea of your preferences, you can start searching for available properties. There are several online platforms that list rentals in Daejeon, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Dabang. These websites are mostly in Korean, so you might need help from a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation tool. Another option is to visit real estate agencies (Budongsan) in the area you're interested in. These agencies have extensive knowledge of the local market and can help you find a place that fits your needs. Keep in mind that real estate agents in Korea usually charge a commission fee. When you find a place you like, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit (Jeonse) and lower monthly rent, or a smaller deposit (Wolse) and higher rent. Make sure to clarify all the details, including the duration of the lease, maintenance fees, and what's included in the rent. Finally, before signing the contract, inspect the property carefully. Check the condition of the appliances, the heating system, and the overall cleanliness. If everything is satisfactory, you can proceed with signing the contract and moving in. Remember, finding a place to live in a foreign country can be challenging, so don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it," said one expat in Daejeon.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Daejeon, is usually a modern, high-rise apartment building located in a convenient area close to public transportation, shopping centers, and restaurants. These apartments often come fully furnished with modern amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and a fully equipped kitchen. The living room is usually spacious with a comfortable seating area and a flat-screen TV. The bedrooms are typically cozy with comfortable beds and ample closet space. The bathrooms are usually clean and modern, often equipped with a shower and a bathtub. Some apartments may also have a small balcony with a view of the city. The buildings often provide facilities such as a gym, a swimming pool, and a parking lot. The security is usually top-notch, with 24-hour security guards and CCTV cameras. Despite being in a bustling city, these apartments often offer a quiet and peaceful living environment," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"The average cost of housing in Daejeon can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For instance, purchasing an apartment in the city center may cost significantly more than renting a smaller apartment or house in the outskirts. As of recent data, the average price for buying an apartment in the city center can be quite high, while renting a one-bedroom apartment in the same area is considerably less. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other economic factors," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Daejeon, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Daejeon for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity over time and could potentially provide a return on investment if property values increase. On the other hand, renting might be a better option if you're not sure about your long-term plans or if you prefer not to have the responsibilities of home ownership. Renting can offer more flexibility, as it's easier to move if your circumstances change. It also means you won't have to worry about maintenance costs or property taxes, which are typically covered by the landlord. Financially, you'll need to consider your current savings, income, and financial stability. Buying a home requires a significant upfront cost, including a down payment and closing costs. You'll also need to be able to afford the ongoing costs, such as mortgage payments, insurance, and maintenance. Renting can be less of a financial burden upfront, as it typically requires a security deposit and first and last month's rent. It's also worth considering the housing market in Daeon. If property values are rising, it might be a good time to buy. But if they're falling, it might be better to rent until the market stabilizes. In conclusion, the decision to buy or rent a home in Daejeon, Korea, should be based on your personal and financial circumstances. It's a significant decision that requires careful consideration, so it's worth seeking advice from a financial advisor or real estate professional," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"When moving to Daejeon, it's important to pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. This includes warm clothing for the winter months, such as heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and hats, as well as lighter clothing for the summer, like shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. You should also pack a good pair of walking shoes, as Daejeon is a walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas. Don't forget to bring any necessary prescription medications, along with a copy of your prescription. It may also be helpful to bring a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses. If you're planning on cooking at home, you might want to pack some of your favorite non-perishable food items, as they may be hard to find in Korea. Remember to pack all necessary electronics, such as your laptop, phone, and chargers. An international power adapter is also a must, as the plugs in Korea are different from those in many other countries. Bring personal hygiene products, especially if you have specific brands that you prefer, as they may not be available in Korea. Lastly, pack important documents like your passport, visa, driver's license, and any other identification you might need. It's also a good idea to bring copies of these documents, just in case. Remember, it's always better to over-pack than to realize you've forgotten something important once you've arrived in your new home," said one expat in Daejeon.

"In Daejeon, it's important to avoid using someone's first name unless you're very close or have been given permission. Koreans usually use titles or last names. Avoid blowing your nose in public, as it's considered rude and unhygienic. When dining, wait for the eldest person to start eating before you do. It's also considered impolite to leave the table before the elders. Avoid tipping, as it's not a common practice in Korea and can sometimes be seen as insulting. When receiving or giving something, use both hands as a sign of respect. Avoid pointing with your finger, as it's considered rude. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. In Korea, it's considered disrespectful to step on the threshold when entering a traditional Korean home or building. Shoes should be removed before entering homes, some restaurants, and other places with traditional Korean flooring. Avoid making loud noises or speaking loudly in public places, as it's considered impolite. Also, avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, North Korea, and the Korean War. Koreans value harmony and prefer to avoid conflict and heated discussions. When drinking alcohol, it's customary to turn your head away and cover your mouth when you're drinking in the presence of someone older or of higher status. Also, never pour your own drink, but always pour for others. Lastly, physical contact is not as common in Korean culture, especially in public. Avoid hugging, touching, or getting too close to someone unless you're very close or have a deep relationship," said one expat who made the move to Daejeon.

"The doctor co-pay and medications are very inexpensive compared to my home country. I do not trust the doctors to operate as three friends died while be operated on," replied one expat when asked about moving to Daejeon.