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Suseong-gu stands out as Daegu's premium residential district, commanding property prices significantly above South Korea's national averages. This affluent area attracts buyers with its top-tier schools, excellent infrastructure, and high-quality amenities, but these advantages come at a substantial price premium that raises questions about affordability and market sustainability.
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Suseong-gu apartment prices range 20-56% above South Korea's national average, with prime properties reaching KRW 7-9 million per square meter compared to the national average of KRW 5.76 million.
While the district offers superior amenities and growth prospects, stretched price-to-income ratios and modest rental yields of 2-3% suggest potential overvaluation concerns for buyers.
| Metric | Suseong-gu | South Korea National Average | Premium/Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment Price per sqm | KRW 7-9 million ($4,850-$6,240) | KRW 5.76 million ($3,980) | +20-56% premium |
| Rental Yield | 2-3% | 3-4% | Lower yields |
| Price-to-Income Ratio | Above 90 (estimated) | 83.7 | Stretched affordability |
| Transaction Volume Trend | Declining (2023-2025) | Flat/declining | Following national trend |
| Population Growth | Positive | Mixed regional results | Stronger demographics |
| Ownership Rate | Above average | ~60% national average | Higher ownership |
| Supply Pipeline | Tight in prime areas | Varies by region | Limited new supply |
How much higher are the average apartment prices per square meter in Suseong-gu compared to the national average in South Korea?
Suseong-gu apartment prices command a significant premium over South Korea's national average, with costs ranging 20-56% above the baseline.
As of September 2025, the national average apartment price sits at KRW 5.76 million ($3,980) per square meter. Suseong-gu, as Daegu's premium district, typically sees prices between KRW 7 million and KRW 9 million ($4,850–$6,240) per square meter.
This premium reflects Suseong-gu's status as one of South Korea's most desirable residential areas outside Seoul. The district consistently attracts affluent buyers seeking top-tier amenities, excellent schools, and superior infrastructure. Prime locations within Suseong-gu can reach the higher end of this range, particularly for newer developments or properties near major educational institutions.
The price gap has widened over recent years as Suseong-gu has outperformed national price growth trends, making it increasingly expensive relative to other Korean districts.
How do Suseong-gu's median household incomes compare with the national average, and does the price-to-income ratio show signs of being stretched?
Suseong-gu households earn above the national median income, but property prices have risen faster than income growth, creating affordability pressures.
While Suseong-gu residents generally have higher incomes reflecting the district's affluent status, the price-to-income ratio has become stretched compared to most South Korean regions. The national price-to-income ratio reached 83.7 in 2024, but Suseong-gu likely exceeds 90, indicating that property prices are consuming a larger portion of household income.
This stretched ratio makes homeownership increasingly challenging for local households, even those with above-average incomes. Young professionals and families find it particularly difficult to enter the housing market without substantial savings or family support.
The affordability gap suggests potential risks for sustained price growth, as fewer buyers can qualify for properties at current price levels.
What is the average rent-to-income ratio in Suseong-gu versus the national benchmark?
Rent-to-income ratios in Suseong-gu exceed national benchmarks, with residents spending a higher proportion of their income on housing costs.
Suseong-gu renters typically allocate 25-35% of their household income to rent, compared to the national average of 20-25%. This elevated ratio reflects the district's premium rental market, where landlords can command higher rents due to superior amenities and location advantages.
The higher rent burden affects both local workers and newcomers to the area, making Suseong-gu less accessible for middle-income households. Many residents accept the higher costs in exchange for better schools, transportation access, and lifestyle amenities.
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How do housing price growth rates in Suseong-gu over the past 5–10 years compare to the South Korea average?
Suseong-gu has experienced faster price appreciation than national averages over the past decade, particularly during periods of urban migration and infrastructure investment.
The district benefited from cycles of increased demand driven by families seeking quality education and improved living standards. Price growth consistently outpaced the national average during the 2015-2020 period, when Daegu's overall development and Suseong-gu's amenity improvements attracted significant buyer interest.
Recent years (2023-2025) have seen price corrections similar to broader South Korean markets, but Suseong-gu's long-term trajectory remains robust. Forecasts suggest Daegu housing prices, including Suseong-gu, will recover with annual growth of 3-5%.
The district's historical outperformance reflects its fundamental advantages in education, infrastructure, and quality of life, which continue to drive premium valuations relative to other Korean regions.
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What is the current rental yield in Suseong-gu, and how does it stack up against yields in other major Korean cities?
Rental yields in Suseong-gu range between 2-3%, which is modest compared to other major Korean cities and reflects the high property purchase prices.
These yields align with Seoul's central districts, where expensive property values suppress gross returns despite strong rental demand. The low yields result from Suseong-gu's premium pricing, as high purchase costs outweigh rental income potential.
Other major cities like Busan or Incheon typically offer slightly higher yields of 3-4% due to lower purchase prices relative to rental rates. Investors seeking higher returns often look beyond Suseong-gu to secondary cities or emerging districts.
The modest yields suggest that Suseong-gu properties are primarily attractive for capital appreciation rather than immediate rental income, making them more suitable for long-term investors than those seeking steady cash flow.
How do transaction volumes in Suseong-gu compare with other districts and the national trend, and are sales slowing down or accelerating?
| Period | Suseong-gu Transaction Trend | National Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2020-2022 | High activity, above district average | Strong nationwide sales |
| 2023 | Declining volumes | Market cooling begins |
| 2024 | Further decline, below peak levels | Flat to declining sales |
| 2025 (through Sept) | Stabilizing but still below peak | Continued weakness |
| Outlook | Gradual recovery expected | Mixed regional performance |
What is the average mortgage burden (monthly payments vs income) for Suseong-gu residents compared to the national level?
Mortgage payments consume a larger share of household income in Suseong-gu compared to national averages, reflecting the district's elevated property prices.
Suseong-gu homeowners typically allocate 35-45% of their gross household income to mortgage payments, compared to the national average of 25-30%. This higher burden results from the premium prices commanded in the district, even when residents have above-average incomes.
The elevated mortgage burden limits affordability for many potential buyers and contributes to the stretched price-to-income ratios observed in the area. First-time buyers face particular challenges, often requiring larger down payments or extended loan terms.
Many buyers justify the higher mortgage burden by the district's long-term appreciation potential and superior quality of life, viewing the investment as worthwhile despite the financial strain.
How do land prices in Suseong-gu compare to similar urban districts across South Korea?
Land prices in Suseong-gu rank among South Korea's highest outside Seoul, surpassing most regional centers and similar urban districts.
The district's land values exceed those in comparable areas of other major cities like Busan, Incheon, or Ulsan, reflecting strong demand for residential development in this premium location. Within Daegu, Suseong-gu consistently commands the highest land prices.
Prime residential land in Suseong-gu can cost 30-50% more than similar urban districts in other Korean cities, driven by the area's reputation for excellent schools, infrastructure, and amenities. This premium land cost contributes directly to higher apartment prices and development costs.
The elevated land values also indicate strong confidence in the district's long-term prospects, as developers and investors are willing to pay premiums for development opportunities in this desirable location.
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What are the population growth and demographic trends in Suseong-gu, and do they justify higher housing demand compared to the national picture?
Suseong-gu maintains positive population growth and favorable demographics that support robust housing demand above national trends.
- Family-driven migration: Young families with children consistently move to Suseong-gu for access to top-rated schools and family-friendly amenities
- Professional attraction: The district draws white-collar workers and professionals seeking quality living environments
- Educational magnetism: Proximity to prestigious schools and universities creates sustained demand from education-focused households
- Infrastructure improvements: Ongoing transportation and amenity developments continue attracting new residents
- Demographic stability: The area maintains a balanced age structure with strong household formation rates
These demographic advantages justify higher housing demand compared to many Korean regions experiencing population decline or stagnation, supporting the district's premium pricing structure.
How many new housing units are being built in Suseong-gu relative to demand, and how does this supply pipeline compare with the rest of South Korea?
Housing supply in Suseong-gu's prime areas remains tight relative to demand, contrasting with oversupply risks in wider Daegu and other Korean regions.
New construction struggles to match demand in the most desirable neighborhoods within Suseong-gu, where land scarcity and zoning restrictions limit development opportunities. This supply constraint supports price stability and growth potential in prime locations.
The district's supply situation differs significantly from many other Korean areas facing oversupply concerns, as Suseong-gu's established desirability and limited developable land create natural supply restrictions.
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What percentage of households in Suseong-gu own versus rent, and how does that ratio differ from the national average?
Suseong-gu has a higher proportion of owner-occupied homes compared to South Korea's national average, though rental shares have increased due to price pressures.
Approximately 65-70% of Suseong-gu households own their homes, compared to the national average of around 60%. This higher ownership rate reflects the district's affluent resident base and their ability to purchase properties despite premium prices.
However, urbanization trends and rising prices have gradually increased the rental population, particularly among younger households and professionals who cannot afford to buy immediately. Many young families rent initially while saving for eventual homeownership in the area.
The ownership pattern indicates strong long-term commitment to the district among residents, supporting price stability and community investment in local amenities and schools.
How do Suseong-gu's school quality, transportation access, and local amenities contribute to price premiums compared to other Korean districts?
Suseong-gu's exceptional schools, transportation infrastructure, and amenities justify significant price premiums over most Korean districts.
| Amenity Category | Suseong-gu Advantages | Impact on Property Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Quality | Top-ranked schools, high university admission rates | 15-25% price premium |
| Transportation Access | Multiple subway lines, bus connections, highway access | 10-15% price premium |
| Healthcare Facilities | Major hospitals and specialized medical centers | 5-10% price premium |
| Shopping & Entertainment | Department stores, cultural facilities, restaurants | 5-10% price premium |
| Parks & Recreation | Suseong Lake, extensive green spaces | 5-10% price premium |
These combined amenities create a comprehensive lifestyle package that few other Korean districts can match, making residents willing to pay substantial premiums for access to this quality of life.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Suseong-gu represents a premium segment of South Korea's residential market, commanding prices 20-56% above national averages due to exceptional schools, infrastructure, and amenities.
While the district offers strong fundamentals and growth prospects, stretched affordability metrics and modest rental yields suggest buyers should carefully evaluate their investment timeline and financial capacity.
It's something we develop in our South Korea property pack.