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Daejeon, the fifth largest city in South Korea, is located in the central-western part of the country, with an area of 539.85 square kilometers and a population of approximately 1.512 million in 2017.
Daejeon, originally part of South Chungcheong Province, became a metropolitan city in 1989. It boasts 59 higher education institutions with over 110,000 students, as well as numerous scientific and technological research institutes. Originally a small village, it flourished after the railway's arrival between 1905 and 1914, and was established as a city in 1943.
Daejeon is also the science and technology center of South Korea. About 70 leading research institutes are located in the Daejeon Research Base. There are nearly 800 high-tech companies in the Daejeon Science Park, which is equivalent to China's Zhongguancun Science Park and the United States' "Silicon Valley".
Daejeon is nicknamed "Korea's Silicon Valley" and is home to the WTA (World Science Cities Association), a network of 27 science cities from around the world and serving as a research hub. Suburban agriculture thrives, and industries primarily focus on textiles (cotton, silk, and chemical fibers), leather, brewing, and papermaking. Daejeon has become a major transportation hub for the nation. From Daejeon, visitors can explore the diverse scenery of central Korea.
Temperate monsoon climate; Daejeon is a city with a long history and culture left over from the Baekje Dynasty, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Daecheong Lake Ecology Museum, National Science Museum of Korea, Uam Historical Park, EXPO Science Park, Korea Currency Museum, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon University, etc.
It is recommended to visit for 1-2 days
free
Open all day
Daejeon is one of South Korea's major cities, known as the “Silicon Valley of Korea” due to its focus on high-tech industries and research. It played a significant role in Korea's technological advancements and hosted the 1993 Daejeon Expo, which helped further establish its role in science and technology.
Daejeon is located in central South Korea, about 140 kilometers south of Seoul. It is easily accessible by KTX (Korea Train Express), buses, or taxis. The city also has an efficient public transportation system, including metro lines and buses.
Most attractions in Daejeon are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild. Avoid the hot and humid summer months if you prefer comfortable weather.
Entrance fees for most attractions in Daejeon range from 1,000 KRW to 10,000 KRW, depending on the location. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance or online for certain sites, such as the National Science Museum and Daejeon Expo Park.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary unless there are special events or peak season. It is advisable to book in advance for attractions like exhibitions at the National Science Museum or events at the Daejeon Expo Park during busy times.
To fully explore Daejeon, including its science museums, parks, and cultural attractions, you will need 1 to 2 days. For a more relaxed experience, one day is sufficient for major attractions.
Guided tours and audio guides are available at major attractions such as the National Science Museum and Daejeon Expo Park. They are typically offered in Korean and English.
Some attractions, such as Daejeon Expo Park, offer evening events and light shows. Yuseong Hot Springs is also a popular spot for a relaxing evening visit. It’s best to check the attraction’s schedule for night tours and special events.
Weekends and holidays can get crowded, especially in popular areas like Daejeon Expo Park and Hanbat Arboretum. The least crowded times are during weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Many attractions in Daejeon, including the National Science Museum and Daejeon Expo Park, are fully accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. Wheelchair access is available in most areas, and there are elevators at major attractions.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at most attractions and restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller shops or in more remote areas.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants, especially around the city center. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in a few specialized places.
Souvenir shops in Daejeon sell traditional Korean goods, such as ceramics, local handicrafts, and snacks like sweet red bean paste-filled pastries. Daejeon also offers locally-made products related to science and technology.
