7 Things to Do in Daegu 대구 | South Korea
Plan your Daegu itinerary with the help of this list of t unmissable things to do when visiting Korea’s fourth-biggest city. Suitable for a short stay and any season.
Get ready to explore Daegu, a city where tradition meets modernity. In this guide, I'll walk you through the top seven must-do experiences for your first visit. From cosy coffee spots to vibrant markets and K-Pop-inspired streets, Daegu has something for everyone. Let's dive into the cultural tapestry and flavorful delights that make this South Korean city a unique destination.
1. Gusam Coffee and Pudding Cafe (구삼커피)
Begin your Daegu exploration at Gusam Coffee, a delightful spot nestled in the city's maze-like streets, gaining fame for its cat-shaped bouncy puddings. Embracing a '90s hangout vibe, retro TVs, video games, and a collection of '90s pop culture items fill the space, with part of the cafe being transformed into a '90s kid's room. A must-visit for 90’ kids and pudding lovers.
📍Address: 구삼커피 (Gusam Coffee), 대구 중구 봉산문화2길 16-3 구삼커피
2. Seomun Market (서문 시장)
Where tradition meets commerce. No trip to Daegu is complete without a visit to Seomun Market, a bustling hub of activity that has stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy as you weave through narrow alleys lined with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. This market provides a sensory feast, allowing you to savour the sights, sounds, and aromas of authentic Korean life.
📍Address: Seomun Market (서문시장), 대구광역시 중구 큰장로26길 45
3. BTS V Mural Street
A must-visit for any ARMY BTS fan. Located right next to the Seomun Market and in front of Taehyung’s primary school (Daesung Elementary School) you can find a wall mural dedicated to V that started as a birthday project by China Baidu VBar back in 2021.
A 33-meter-long mural, consisting of various smaller art pieces depicting V’s musical works, was recognised as an important city monument. In 2022 the Daegu Seo-gu office joined forces with China Baidu VBar to launch an extension project, expanding the mural wall by an additional 25 meters, evolving it into an impressive 58-meter super-large mural.
📍Address: BTS's V Mural Street, 광역시 대성초등학교앞
4. BTS Suga Mural Street
It is only right that the other BTS member coming from Daegu is being recognised by the local community. Embark on a mural-hunting adventure across five locations, where a total of eight themed murals await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and imaginative world of BTS Suga as you explore these artistic masterpieces. Don't just admire the visuals; keep your eyes peeled for hidden lyrics from BTS songs, adding an extra layer of magic to your hunting journey.
📍Address: BTS Suga Mural, 대구 남구 명덕로
5. Daegu Art Factory (대구예술발전소)
Dive into Daegu's thriving art scene at the Daegu Art Factory. This avant-garde space showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks, providing a glimpse into the city's artistic evolution. From installations to interactive exhibits, every corner of the Daegu Art Factory invites you to explore and engage with the dynamic world of Korean contemporary art.
📍Address: Daegu Art Factory (대구예술발전소), 대구광역시 중구 달성로 22길 31-12(수창동)
6. All-you-can-eat tteokbokki buffet 한끼플러스
Indulge your taste buds at 한끼플러스, an all-you-can-eat tteokbokki buffet that promises a culinary extravaganza. Tteokbokki, a beloved Korean dish featuring chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce, takes centre stage. Customize your dish with an array of toppings, sauces, side dishes and flavours, ensuring that each bite is a delightful adventure for your tongue.
📍Address: 한끼플러스, 대구 중구 동성로 37-1 2층
7. Starbucks Daegu Jongro Goteak (스타벅스 대구종로고택점)
What sets this Starbucks apart is its unique location inside a 103-year-old traditional Korean home, known as a Hanok. The shop and counter are located in a modernized section of the Hanok, featuring high ceilings, beautiful art, and a bright, spacious atmosphere.
Don’t miss out on the charming garden, providing a delightful spot to unwind after a day of exploring Daegu. Additionally, there's a second building, the traditional Hanok side, where you can enjoy your Starbucks order in a more authentic and traditional setting.
To enhance the enchanting atmosphere, the café features top-notch music playing through sound systems from the prestigious audio brand Bang & Olufsen (세계). Specifically designed for this setting, the speakers seamlessly blend with the traditional interiors, contributing to the overall allure of the space.
📍Address: Starbucks Daegu Jongro Goteak (스타벅스 대구종로고택점), 대구 중구 중앙대로77길 22
Daegu (located just about two hours away from Seoul by train) is a city of contrasts, where historical charm meets contemporary allure. With its eclectic mix of cultural treasures and modern delights, Daegu invites you to uncover the beauty that lies in every corner. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of South Korea.
