Daegu, also known as Taegu, is the fourth-largest city in South Korea after Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, and the third-largest metropolitan area in the nation with over 2.4 million residents. It is the capital of the Gyeongsangbuk-do province, although the city itself is not part of the province, but rather a metropolitan city, which functions similarly to a province. Geographically, Daegu is located in the southeastern part of the Korean Peninsula, nestled in a basin surrounded by low mountains, mainly Palgongsan to the north, Biseulsan to the south, Waryongsan to the west, and Gachangsan to the east. The Geumho River flows along the northern and eastern edges of the city, providing a natural boundary and a source of water. Historically, Daegu has been an important city for centuries, dating back to the Unified Silla period when it was known as 'Dalgubeol.' It was an integral part of the production and trading of textiles, which remains a significant element of the local economy. The city is also famous for its apples and the Daegu Yangnyeongsi herbal medicine market, reflecting its rootedness in both agriculture and traditional Korean medicine. Culturally, Daegu is celebrated for its colorful festivals, such as the Daegu International Bodypainting Festival, the Daegu International Musical Festival, and the Daegu International Opera Festival. Its residents are known for their dialect, Daegu satoori, which is part of the Gyeongsang dialect. There are also various cultural sites, such as the Daegu National Museum which provides insights into local history and culture, and a lively art scene that includes modern galleries and traditional performances. From a demographic perspective, Daegu has a homogeneous population, like much of South Korea, with the vast majority of residents being ethnic Koreans. However, recent years have seen a steady increase in the number of foreign residents, including workers, students, and expatriates. The city is a major educational center, home to several national universities, including Kyungpook National University and Keimyung University. Economically, beyond textiles, Daegu has developed a diverse industrial base, with strong sectors in metal, machinery, and automotive parts manufacturing. In recent years, the focus has been on developing high-tech industries, notably in fashion, electronics, and IT, with the establishment of Daegu Gyeongbuk Free Economic Zone. Daegu has been working towards becoming a hub for the renewable energy industry, particularly solar and wind power. In terms of infrastructure, Daegu has an extensive public transportation network, including a subway system, buses, and KTX (Korea's high-speed train) services that connect it to other major cities. Its airport provides both domestic and international flights, though most international travelers would transit through Incheon International Airport. Daegu continues to evolve and integrate modernity with its rich heritage, maintaining its role as a key urban center in South Korea and contributing significantly to the cultural and industrial fabric of the nation.