Daejeon

1. Electricity (전기 - Jeongi)

Provider:

• Electricity in Daejeon is managed by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), the national electricity provider.

Costs:

• Electricity is billed on a tiered system, meaning the more you use, the higher the rate per kWh.
  • Average monthly cost: ₩30,000–₩70,000 for a small apartment (depending on usage and season).
  • Summer and winter: Costs can spike due to air conditioning or heating.

How to Set Up:

• For renters: Electricity is usually already connected. You’ll need to transfer the account to your name. Contact KEPCO or ask your landlord for assistance.
• For homeowners: Visit the KEPCO website or call their customer service (123 from a Korean phone) to register.
• You’ll need:
  • Your Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport.
  • Your address.
  • Bank account details for automatic payments (optional but recommended).

Payment:

• Bills are sent monthly via mail or email.
• Payment options:
  • Bank transfer.
  • Automatic withdrawal.
  • Pay at convenience stores (e.g., CU, GS25).

Tips:

• Use energy-efficient appliances to save on costs.
• Monitor your usage through the KEPCO app or website.

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2. Water (수도 - Sudo)

Provider:

• Water services in Daejeon are managed by the Daejeon Waterworks Headquarters (대전 상수도사업본부).

Costs:

• Water is relatively inexpensive in South Korea.
  • Average monthly cost: ₩10,000–₩30,000 for a small household.
• Charges are based on usage (measured in cubic meters).

How to Set Up:

• Water is typically already connected in rental properties.
• If you need to register or transfer the account:
  • Contact the Daejeon Waterworks Headquarters at 042-120 (Daejeon City Call Center).
  • Provide your ARC, address, and move-in date.

Payment:

• Bills are issued monthly.
• Payment options:
  • Bank transfer.
  • Automatic withdrawal.
  • Pay at convenience stores.

Tips:

• Tap water in Daejeon is safe to drink, but many locals prefer using water purifiers or bottled water.
• Fix leaks promptly to avoid unnecessary charges.

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3. Gas (가스 - Gaseu)

Provider:

• Gas services in Daejeon are provided by Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) or local gas companies.

Costs:

• Gas is used for heating, hot water, and cooking.
  • Average monthly cost: ₩10,000–₩50,000 (higher in winter due to heating).
• Costs depend on usage and the season.

How to Set Up:

• Gas is usually connected in rental properties, but you’ll need to register the account in your name.
• Contact your local gas provider (your landlord or realtor can provide the contact information).
• A technician may visit to check the connection and ensure safety.
• You’ll need:
  • Your ARC.
  • Address.
  • Bank account details for automatic payments.

Payment:

• Bills are sent monthly.
• Payment options:
  • Bank transfer.
  • Automatic withdrawal.
  • Pay at convenience stores.

Tips:

• Gas heating can be expensive in winter. Use ondol (Korean floor heating) efficiently by heating only the rooms you use.
• Turn off the gas valve when not in use for safety.

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4. Internet and Mobile Services (인터넷 및 모바일 - Inteonet mit Mobail)

Providers:

• Major internet providers in Daejeon include:
  • KT (Korea Telecom)
  • SK Broadband
  • LG U+
• Mobile services are often bundled with internet for discounts.

Costs:

• Internet: ₩25,000–₩40,000 per month for high-speed broadband.
• Bundled packages (internet + TV + mobile): ₩50,000–₩100,000 per month.

How to Set Up:

• Visit a provider’s store or website to sign up.
• Required documents:
  • ARC.
  • Bank account details for automatic payments.
  • Address.
• Installation usually takes 1–3 days.
• Contracts are typically for 1–3 years. Early termination fees may apply.

Tips:

• Compare providers for the best deals and speeds in your area.
• Many providers offer English-speaking customer service.

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5. Waste Management (쓰레기 관리 - Sseuregi Gwanri)

System:

• South Korea has a strict waste management system based on volume-based waste disposal (종량제 - Jongnyangje).
• You must separate waste into:
  • General waste (일반 쓰레기).
  • Food waste (음식물 쓰레기).
  • Recycling (재활용).

Costs:

• You need to purchase designated garbage bags (종량제 봉투) for general waste.
  • Prices vary by size (₩200–₩1,000 per bag).
• Food waste disposal may require special bags or stickers, depending on your district.

How to Set Up:

• No registration is needed, but you must follow local rules.
• Purchase garbage bags at convenience stores or supermarkets.
• Check your building or neighborhood’s waste collection schedule.

Tips:

• Recycling is free but must be sorted correctly (plastic, paper, glass, etc.).
• Food waste must be drained of liquid before disposal.
• Fines can be imposed for improper disposal.

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Local Considerations and Tips for Daejeon:

1. Language Barrier: While many utility providers have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to have a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation app when setting up services.
2. Apartment Complexes: If you live in a large apartment complex, some utilities (e.g., water, gas) may be included in your monthly maintenance fee (관리비 - Gwanlibi). Check with your landlord or building management.
3. Energy Efficiency: Daejeon experiences hot summers and cold winters. Invest in energy-efficient appliances and insulation to save on electricity and gas.
4. Community Resources: The Daejeon Global Center offers support for foreigners, including help with utilities and other services. Visit their website or office for assistance.

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By following this guide, you should be able to set up and manage your utilities in Daejeon smoothly. Let me know if you need further assistance!