대학신문방송국

Daejeon Local Currency, Ontongdaejeon

By Kim Do-eun Cub Reporter, Sophomore of Public Policy

You have probably experienced feeling happy when you get a little discount when you are buying something. There is a way to both feel the joys of such frugal consumption, and also improve the local economy. It is to use “Ontongdaejeon.” This is a card-type local currency that can only be used in Daejeon, and is issued by the Daejeon government to boost the local economy by increasing sales for small business and self-employed people. Let’s find out more about this.

1. Benefits

The first is a cashback point system of up to 10 percent of the payment amount. It should be noted that the payment limit for cashback is 500,000 won per month and can change, depending on the budget situation. 

The second is a free subscription to “Ontong protective safety insurance.” This is an insurance policy that can be covered for traffic accidents, disability benefits, surgery expenses for people with certain diseases, compensation for violent crimes, and death insurance for certain infectious diseases.

2. Where to use

You can pay in the same way as a credit card at any store in Daejeon that uses IC card terminals. However, it excludes large department stores, entertainment and gambling establishments, and online payments. It can be used in convenience facilities in HBNU as well as in stores around the university. You can also search for affiliated stores with the Ontongdaejeon app.

3. How to apply for a card

There are two ways to apply for a card. One is to apply through the Ontongdaejeon app, and the other is to visit Hana Bank. If you apply through the app, it will take two to three days to receive the card, but in the case of a visit application, it can be issued immediately on site. However, if you already have the other Daejeon local currency, Daedeok e-roum, you cannot apply for the Ontongdaejeon card.

In addition, as a user who has been using this card for almost a year, I would like to share some advice. First, I recommend searching for stores through the app’s “Find Affiliates” function. I was able to use this card at most stores in Daejeon, but I was surprised because at Starbucks and Daiso, which are directly managed by the headquarters, I could pay but I could not receive cashback benefits.