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Public Utilities

Overview of how to pay for utilities such as water, gas, and electricity in Daegu.

Sections

1. Electricity (์ „๊ธฐ - Jeongi)

Provider

  • The primary electricity provider in Daegu (and all of South Korea) is Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).

Setting Up Electricity

  • For New Residents:
    • If youโ€™re moving into a new apartment or house, electricity is usually already connected. Youโ€™ll need to register the account under your name.
    • Contact KEPCOโ€™s customer service (dial 123 from any phone) or visit their website (KEPCO website) to register.
    • Youโ€™ll need your Alien Registration Card (ARC), lease agreement, and bank account details for automatic payments.
  • For Existing Residences:
    • If the previous tenant hasnโ€™t canceled their account, you may need to coordinate with KEPCO to transfer the account to your name.

Costs

  • Electricity is billed monthly and is based on usage. Rates are tiered, meaning the more electricity you use, the higher the rate per kWh.
    • Average Monthly Cost: โ‚ฉ30,000โ€“โ‚ฉ100,000 (USD $22โ€“$75), depending on the size of your home and usage.
    • Summer months (due to air conditioning) and winter months (if using electric heating) can lead to higher bills.

Payment Options

  • Bank Transfer/Direct Debit: The most common and convenient method. Set this up with your bank.
  • Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at stores like CU, GS25, or 7-Eleven.
  • KEPCO Website/App: Online payment is available via credit card or bank transfer.
  • ATM: Use an ATM to pay directly to KEPCO.

Cultural Considerations

  • South Koreans are very energy-conscious. Youโ€™ll notice reminders to conserve electricity, especially during peak seasons.
  • Many apartments have a smart meter system that allows you to monitor your electricity usage in real time.

2. Water (์ˆ˜๋„ - Sudo)

Provider

  • Water services in Daegu are managed by the Daegu Metropolitan Waterworks Authority.

Setting Up Water

  • Water is typically already connected when you move in. The landlord or building management will usually handle the account setup.
  • If you need to set it up yourself, contact the Daegu Waterworks Authority at their local office or through their website.

Costs

  • Water is relatively inexpensive in South Korea and is billed monthly based on usage.
    • Average Monthly Cost: โ‚ฉ10,000โ€“โ‚ฉ30,000 (USD $7โ€“$22), depending on household size and usage.

Payment Options

  • Direct Debit: Set up automatic payments through your bank.
  • Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at local convenience stores.
  • Online Payment: Use the Waterworks Authorityโ€™s website for online payments.

Cultural Considerations

  • Tap water in Daegu is safe to drink, but many locals prefer to use water purifiers or buy bottled water.
  • Water conservation is encouraged, and you may find reminders to save water in your building.

3. Gas (๊ฐ€์Šค - Gaseu)

Provider

  • Gas services in Daegu are provided by Daegu City Gas Corporation.

Setting Up Gas

  • Gas is used primarily for cooking and heating (including hot water).
  • When moving in, youโ€™ll need to contact Daegu City Gas to set up your account. Your landlord or building management may assist with this.
  • A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check for safety.

Costs

  • Gas is billed monthly based on usage. Costs can vary significantly depending on the season.
    • Average Monthly Cost:
      • Summer: โ‚ฉ10,000โ€“โ‚ฉ20,000 (USD $7โ€“$15)
      • Winter: โ‚ฉ50,000โ€“โ‚ฉ150,000 (USD $37โ€“$112) due to heating.

Payment Options

  • Direct Debit: Set up automatic payments through your bank.
  • Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at convenience stores.
  • Online Payment: Use the Daegu City Gas website or app for online payments.

Cultural Considerations

  • Gas safety is taken very seriously in South Korea. Youโ€™ll often find gas detectors installed in homes.
  • Always turn off the gas valve when not in use, as this is a common safety practice.

4. Internet (์ธํ„ฐ๋„ท - Inteonet)

Providers

  • Major internet service providers in Daegu include:
    • KT (Korea Telecom)
    • SK Broadband
    • LG U+

Setting Up Internet

  • Internet services are not included in rent and must be set up separately.
  • Visit a providerโ€™s store or call their customer service to arrange installation. Youโ€™ll need your ARC, lease agreement, and bank account details.
  • Installation usually takes 1โ€“3 days, and a technician will visit your home to set up the connection.

Costs

  • South Korea is known for its fast and affordable internet.
    • Average Monthly Cost: โ‚ฉ30,000โ€“โ‚ฉ50,000 (USD $22โ€“$37) for high-speed internet.
    • Bundled packages (internet + TV + phone) are also available and can save money.

Payment Options

  • Direct Debit: Set up automatic payments through your bank.
  • Credit Card: Pay online or in-store.
  • Convenience Stores: Some providers allow bill payments at convenience stores.

Cultural Considerations

  • South Korea has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world, so you can expect excellent service.
  • Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, libraries, and even on public transportation.

General Tips for Utility Management in Daegu

  1. Language Barrier:

    • Most utility providers have English-speaking customer service representatives, but itโ€™s helpful to have a Korean-speaking friend or landlord assist you during setup.
    • Many websites and apps are in Korean, so using a translation app like Papago can be helpful.
  2. Bills and Notifications:

    • Utility bills are typically delivered to your mailbox or sent via text message. Make sure your contact information is up to date.
    • Late payments may incur small penalties, so set up automatic payments if possible.
  3. Energy and Water Conservation:

    • South Koreans are environmentally conscious, and youโ€™ll find many campaigns encouraging residents to save energy and water.
  4. Building Management:

    • In many apartment complexes, the building management office (๊ด€๋ฆฌ์‚ฌ๋ฌด์†Œ - Gwanri Samuso) handles utility accounts and payments. Check with them for assistance.
  5. Emergency Numbers:

    • Electricity (KEPCO): 123
    • Gas Emergency: 1544-4500
    • Waterworks Authority: 120 (Daegu City Call Center)

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Daegu. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!