After many rainy days to start our trip in Korea, we started today off with the sun shining as we got off the bus to visit Eaton. Eaton is a power management company that produces things like fuel-efficient systems, transmissions, and grids. Their headquarters are in Dublin, but they have branches all around the world, with one in Cranberry, PA (not far from Pitt). I learned a lot about the products Eaton manufacture for their target market, as well as how competitive this industry can be. Additionally, it was interesting to hear about the use of 3D printers and artificial intelligence in this corporation.

We then visited the Noryangjin fish market with many vendors selling all types of seafood. I saw seafood there that I didn’t even know existed. While at the market, I got to try raw octopus from one of the sellers. The texture was kind of like squid, but the flavor was mostly just the gochujang used to dip the octopus in.

We then went to Hyundai Mall for a few hours. Many of the stores more higher end but they offered many different types of clothes, shoes, cosmetics, etc. My group started off at the 6th floor and worked our way down. On the 6th floor, there was a lot of greenery and places to take cute pictures. There was even a fountain in the middle of the garden like setting. Since today is Parent’s Day in South Korea, many stores were selling flowers, especially carnations.

After visiting the mall, we took the subway to the Gocheok Sky Dome. Since we were there close to rush hour, the subway was super crowded and filled with people. But we successfully reached our destination and got to take in the views from outside of the stadium. The dome covering the field was closed today, but I wish they had it open because it got a little hot during the game and the weather was really nice today. It would have been nice to feel a breeze blowing through the air. Additionally, the atmosphere at the game was distinct from the MLB games in the U.S. The stadiums seats were not very filled. I did like how the game was more interactive. There were cheerleaders and dancers that led the crowd through cheers.

I’m glad that I continue to experience so many new things everyday during this trip. Today with the atmosphere of the game, visit to Eaton, and the fish market, I gained insight into the daily lives of those who live in Korea. I hope that I continue to learn more and take in all that Korea has to offer.