Daegu

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City Administration

Services pertaining to the local city government, such as documentation, permits, and public support programs.

Sections

1. Public Services in Daegu

A. Healthcare Services

  • Overview: Daegu has a robust healthcare system with public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The city is home to several renowned medical institutions, including Kyungpook National University Hospital.
  • Key Facilities:
    • Public hospitals: Affordable and accessible for residents and foreigners.
    • Private hospitals: Offer specialized care, often with English-speaking staff.
    • Community health centers: Provide vaccinations, health check-ups, and preventive care.
  • Health Insurance:
    • National Health Insurance (NHI): Mandatory for all residents, including foreigners staying for more than six months. It covers a significant portion of medical expenses.
    • Cost: Monthly premiums depend on income; typically around 3-7% of your salary.
    • Procedure: Register for NHI through your employer or at the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) office. Self-employed individuals can apply directly.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Bring your Alien Registration Card (ARC) for hospital visits.
    • Many hospitals have international clinics or translation services, but learning basic Korean medical terms can be helpful.

B. Housing and Accommodation

  • Types of Housing:
    • Officetels: Studio apartments popular among young professionals and students.
    • Villas: Small apartment buildings, often more affordable.
    • High-rise apartments: Common for families, with modern amenities.
  • Rental Systems:
    • Jeonse (Key Money Deposit): A lump-sum deposit (50-80% of the property value) returned at the end of the lease.
    • Wolse (Monthly Rent): Requires a smaller deposit and monthly rent payments.
  • Costs:
    • Jeonse: โ‚ฉ50 million to โ‚ฉ200 million, depending on the area.
    • Wolse: โ‚ฉ300,000 to โ‚ฉ1,000,000 per month, plus a deposit of โ‚ฉ5 million to โ‚ฉ20 million.
  • Procedure:
    • Work with a licensed real estate agent (๋ถ€๋™์‚ฐ, Budongsan).
    • Sign a lease agreement and register it at the local district office to protect your rights.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Landlords may prefer tenants with stable jobs or long-term visas.
    • Be prepared to negotiate terms with the help of your agent.

C. Taxation

  • Overview: Taxes in South Korea are managed by the National Tax Service (NTS), but local governments like Daegu also collect property and resident taxes.
  • Key Taxes:
    • Income Tax: Progressive rates from 6% to 45%.
    • Resident Tax: A small percentage of your income tax, paid to the local government.
    • Property Tax: Paid annually by property owners.
  • Procedure:
    • Income tax is usually deducted by your employer.
    • File an annual tax return in May if you have additional income or deductions.
    • Visit the Daegu Tax Office or use the Hometax website (available in English) for assistance.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Keep receipts for medical expenses, education, and charitable donations for tax deductions.
    • Tax offices in Daegu often have English-speaking staff to assist foreigners.

D. Public Transport

  • Overview: Daegu has an efficient and affordable public transport system, including subways, buses, and taxis.
  • Subway:
    • Three lines (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3) connect major areas of the city.
    • Cost: โ‚ฉ1,250 for adults (with a T-money card).
    • Procedure: Purchase a T-money card at convenience stores or subway stations and recharge it as needed.
  • Buses:
    • Extensive network with color-coded routes (blue, green, red).
    • Cost: โ‚ฉ1,250 for adults (with a T-money card).
  • Taxis:
    • Readily available and relatively affordable.
    • Base Fare: โ‚ฉ3,800 (higher at night).
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Subways and buses are punctual and clean.
    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers as a sign of respect.
    • Taxis may not always accept credit cards, so carry cash or use a payment app like KakaoTaxi.

E. Waste Management

  • Overview: Daegu has a strict waste disposal system to promote recycling and environmental sustainability.
  • Procedure:
    • Purchase designated garbage bags (์ข…๋Ÿ‰์ œ ๋ด‰ํˆฌ) from convenience stores or supermarkets.
    • Separate recyclables (plastic, glass, paper) and food waste.
    • Dispose of waste at designated collection points.
  • Costs:
    • Garbage bags: โ‚ฉ500 to โ‚ฉ1,000 per bag, depending on size.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Improper disposal can result in fines.
    • Learn the local recycling symbols and guidelines.

2. Administrative Procedures

A. Alien Registration

  • Overview: Foreigners staying in South Korea for more than 90 days must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC).
  • Procedure:
    • Visit the Daegu Immigration Office within 90 days of arrival.
    • Required documents: Passport, visa, application form, proof of residence, and a fee of โ‚ฉ30,000.
    • Processing time: 2-3 weeks.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Make an appointment online through the HiKorea website.
    • Carry your ARC at all times as it serves as your ID.

B. Driverโ€™s License

  • Overview: Foreigners can drive in Daegu with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a Korean driverโ€™s license.
  • Procedure:
    • Exchange your foreign license for a Korean one at the Daegu Driverโ€™s License Examination Office.
    • Required documents: ARC, passport, foreign license, and a notarized translation.
    • Fee: โ‚ฉ12,500.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Traffic rules are strictly enforced, and penalties for violations are high.
    • Public transport is often more convenient than driving.

3. Cultural and Site-Specific Considerations

A. Language

  • While Korean is the primary language, many public services in Daegu offer English support. Learning basic Korean phrases can greatly enhance your experience.

B. Local Etiquette

  • Bowing is a common form of greeting.
  • Remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional accommodations.
  • Respect local customs, especially during festivals like the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Festival.

C. Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 112
  • Fire and Ambulance: 119
  • Foreigner Support Center: 1345 (available in multiple languages)

D. Key Attractions

  • Daegu is known for its cultural landmarks, such as Donghwasa Temple, Seomun Market, and Apsan Park. Exploring these sites can help you better understand the cityโ€™s history and culture.

4. Additional Resources

  • Daegu Metropolitan City Website: Offers detailed information on public services and events (available in English).
  • Foreigner Support Centers: Provide assistance with legal, administrative, and cultural matters.
  • Community Groups: Join expat groups on platforms like Facebook or Meetup to connect with other foreigners in Daegu.

By understanding and utilizing these services, you can navigate life in Daegu with ease and confidence. Let me know if you need further assistance with any specific aspect!