Daegu: A charming little city with a lot to offer

Arriving in Daegu for the first time, I was struck by its small yet beautiful, all-encompassing charm. Located in southeastern South Korea, Daegu is a major city in North Gyeongsang Province. While conveniently located, it retains a refined sense of local flavor and refinement.

The most memorable dish of my trip was the galbi (돼지갈비). The meat was marinated and grilled over charcoal, each bite a satisfying blend of soy sauce and smoky flavor. As for the jjajangmyeon (짜장면) at Junghwa Hotel, Daegu's most famous dish, I still miss the rich black sauce, chewy noodles, and abundant side dishes I once had at a local Chinese restaurant.

Between the cultural and scenic wonders, we also visited the Starbucks Daegu Jongro Gotaek Hanok. This Starbucks is housed in a century-old Korean house built in 1919. The roof tiles, wooden beams, and traditional flooring have been meticulously preserved, creating a light woody aroma. The courtyard and annex offer a relaxing coffee experience, letting time pass by.


The Gothic architecture and red brick facade of Gyesan Cathedral also added a touch of romance to the trip. The towering spire looks majestic against the blue sky, and even more elegant when illuminated at night.


Also, on the rooftop of the Hyundai Department Store in Daegu, I discovered a beautifully decorated, open-plan cafe. This space offers a relaxing atmosphere with expansive views. The open space features several art installations—simple lighting, geometric structures, and a crisscrossing view of the sky and building silhouettes—perfect for photos and a relaxing moment.

In short, while Daegu isn't as large, numerous, or complex as Seoul, that's precisely why every corner is so much more accessible. From delicious food to historic cafes, from modern open spaces to art installations, the experience feels complete and enriching. I look forward to returning next time to explore even more sights and flavors untouched by the usual tourist trap.

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Post by EST 3 | Sep 12, 2025