Digital Nomad Life in Daejeon, Korea

"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," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"Expats in Daejeon often appreciate the local culture's emphasis on respect and politeness, which is deeply ingrained in everyday interactions. They also value the strong sense of community and the willingness of locals to help others, even strangers. The rich history and traditions, visible in local festivals and architecture, are also highly appreciated. Many expats enjoy the local cuisine, which is diverse, flavorful, and often served with a variety of side dishes. They also appreciate the efficient public transportation system in Daejeon, which makes it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The emphasis on education and hard work is also admired, as well as the balance between modernity and tradition that Daejeon offers. Lastly, the safety and cleanliness of the city are often highlighted as positive aspects of living in Daejeon," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"Expats in Daejeon often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Korean is a difficult language to learn and not everyone in Daejeon speaks English, which can make everyday tasks like shopping or asking for directions difficult. Another challenge is the difference in social norms and etiquette. For example, in Korean culture, it is considered rude to refuse a drink from an elder or superior, which can be uncomfortable for those who do not drink alcohol. The food can also be a challenge for some expats. Korean cuisine is known for its spiciness and unique flavors, which may not be to everyone's liking. Additionally, the work culture in Korea is very demanding, with long hours and high expectations. This can be a shock for expats who are used to a more balanced work-life culture. Lastly, the hierarchical nature of Korean society can also be challenging for expats. Age and status are very important in Korea, and this is reflected in the language and social interactions. This can be difficult to navigate for those who are not familiar with the culture," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Daejeon.

"If you are planning to stay in Daejeon for a while, you will need to apply for a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay. If you are going for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days, you may not need a visa. However, if you plan to work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa. You will need to provide several documents when applying for a visa. These include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, and proof of your travel plans such as a return ticket. You may also need to provide proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, and a letter from your employer or school. If you are planning to stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of your arrival. To apply for an ARC, you will need to provide your passport, a passport-sized photo, and a copy of your visa. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on the type of visa you have. Please note that the requirements can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Therefore, it is recommended to check the latest information from the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country," said one person 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 in Daejeon.

"It would only be negative as I will not return to South Korea and will even avoid layovers in said country," remarked one member in Daejeon.