They were promoted back to the top tier for the 2017 season and went on to win the Korean FA Cup in 2018, which qualified them for the 2019 AFC Champions League.

In the 2003 Korean FA Cup, Daegu reached the quarterfinals, where they were defeated 1–0 by Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i.

Daegu improved in 2004 to tenth place in the league which, due to Incheon United's entry, now numbered 13 clubs.

In 2008, Daegu played extremely aggressive football, becoming the joint equal top-scoring team of the K League, alongside Suwon Samsung Bluewings.

For the first time in its history, Daegu reached the semi-finals of the Korean FA Cup, by defeating Ulsan in the quarterfinals, following a win in the round of 16 over Ansan Hallelujah.

[3] On field, Daegu repeated their dismal performances of the previous season, finishing 15th in the K League standings, equal with Gwangju Sangmu on points.

In the FA Cup, Daegu lost 1–0 after extra time to the National League side Suwon City.

Better results were achieved in the League Cup, with Daegu progressing out of their group to the knockout stage, thanks to wins over Daejeon Citizen and Busan, before losing to FC Seoul after a penalty shoot-out.

By virtue of winning the 2018 Korean FA Cup, Daegu qualified for its first appearance in the AFC Champions League.

[4] After a controversial fall out with the club's executive director, Cho Kwang-Rae, its manager, André, left Daegu FC on January 27, 2020.

As well as Daegu and fellow K League club Incheon United, A-League side Queensland Roar and Beijing Guo'an were also part of the tournament.

After beating both Incheon and Beijing, Daegu drew 0–0 with Queensland, winning the Tongyeong Cup and thus its first trophy.

[7] In 2019, the club played in the 2019 AFC Champions League, and for the group stage was placed with Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Guangzhou Evergrande and Melbourne Victory.

[11] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.