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," said one expat 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," wrote one member 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," remarked 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," remarked 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," remarked one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"Expats considering retirement in Daejeon should be aware that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in Korea. They should also know that the healthcare system in Korea is excellent and affordable, with many doctors and medical staff speaking English. It's important to note that Daejeon has a slower pace of life compared to cities like Seoul or Busan, which can be a positive aspect for those looking for a more relaxed retirement. The city is known for its science and technology industries, and is home to several universities, providing a vibrant and intellectual atmosphere. Expats should also be aware that while many younger Koreans speak English, older Koreans often do not, so learning some basic Korean would be beneficial. The city has a good public transportation system, but driving can be challenging due to the heavy traffic and different driving rules. Daejeon has a four-season climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The city is also known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and national parks, offering plenty of outdoor activities. In terms of housing, expats can choose between modern apartments in the city center or more traditional houses in the outskirts. It's also important to know that Korean food is a big part of the culture, and Daejeon offers a wide variety of restaurants and food markets. Lastly, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for living in Korea. The most common visa for retirees is the F-2 long-term resident visa, but the requirements can be strict, including a high level of financial stability," said one expat who made the move to Daejeon.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Daejeon.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Daejeon.

"Daejeon, like many other cities in South Korea, is generally considered safe with a relatively low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime like pickpocketing or bag snatching is not common. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take standard precautions to ensure personal safety. The city's safety is largely attributed to the strong law enforcement presence and the cultural emphasis on respect and harmony. Despite this, occasional incidents of crime do occur, as they would in any city around the world," commented one expat who made the move to Daejeon.

"1. Daejeon International School: Daejeon International School is a private, non-profit school that offers an American-based curriculum to students from kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. The school's website is http://www.dis.sc.kr/. 2. Taejon Christian International School: Taejon Christian International School is a private, Christian school that offers an American-based curriculum to students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. The school's website is https://www.tcis.or.kr/. 3. Daejeon Foreign Language High School: Daejeon Foreign Language High School is a public school that offers a specialized curriculum focused on foreign language education. The school offers instruction in English, Chinese, Japanese, French, and German. The school's website is http://www.dfl.hs.kr/. 4. Hanbat National University: While not a school in the traditional sense, Hanbat National University offers a variety of language and cultural programs for international students. The university's website is http://www.hanbat.ac.kr/english/. 5. Daejeon University: Daejeon University is a private university that offers a variety of academic programs, including a number of programs taught in English. The university's website is http://www.daejeon.ac.kr/. 6. Daejeon Science High School: Daejeon Science High School is a public school that offers a specialized curriculum focused on science and technology. The school's website is http://www.dshs.hs.kr/," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.

"It would only be negative as I will not return to South Korea and will even avoid layovers in said country," wrote one expat living in 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," mentioned one expat inDaejeon.