Hyundai and Han River cruise

Today we got up bright and early and had to meet in the lobby by 6:50am where we were given breakfast by Asia Institute in the form of a sandwich and some mochi.  

Our first stop was Hyundai where we were given a factory tour. Hyundai was founded in 1967 and today is the number three car brand in the world. This Korean domestic factory in Asan makes 1 new Hyundai car every 53 seconds. 250 tons of raw material is consumed by the plant daily where they make everything from the doors to the engines on site. Most of the factory is automated. Especially in the beginning stages of forming and welding the car with, welding being 100% automated so there are very little employees. However, the assembly step is only 14% automated and has 1000 employees rotating day and night shifts. It takes 20 hours to make a full car start to finish and the painting and assembly steps are 85% of the time taking 11 and 6 hours respectively for each. We were not allowed to take photos in the factory but it was extremely impressive and we were able to tour each step closely seeing all the machines and parts that go into making a car start to finish. 

We then were back on our way to go to the Han River for lunch and a cruise. Before then we stopped at a rest area that had some restraints and I got a honey hoboki which hit the spot for a small snack before lunch. 

We then arrived at the Han River which was absolutely gorgeous where we had a bento lunch along with some free time to roam the area before our cruise. I was able to sit in the grass and enjoy the nice weather and then on the cruise I got to feed a seagull. 

After the cruise we were back to the hotel where I was craving a piece of home so I had some Burger King for dinner. We then were able to go out for some karaoke before bed. 

Signing off until next time see you tomorrow!