We had a bright and early start today with a long journey ahead to the Hyundai Asan Factory. We boarded the bus at 7:00 AM and were given a thoughtfully packaged breakfast that included a sandwich, trail mix, mochi, and fruit. While it differed from a typical American breakfast, it was a refreshing and enjoyable way to begin the day.
The tour at the Hyundai factory was truly eye-opening. We were guided through the facility and shown various stages of the vehicle production process. From the installation of taillights and car seats to trunk lining and quality inspections, we got a firsthand look at how meticulous and efficient the assembly line system is. It was fascinating to see how each part of the production is synchronized to maximize productivity and precision. Observing the automation and teamwork required to build Hyundai’s vehicles gave me a deeper appreciation for the scale and complexity of modern manufacturing.
Following the factory tour, we headed to the Han River for a scenic afternoon cruise. Before boarding, we enjoyed a bento box lunch that featured marinated chicken, rice, tofu, and an assortment of vegetable side dishes. The cruise itself offered beautiful views of the city’s skyline and calm waters. One unexpected highlight was feeding the seagulls—something I’d never think to do back home, but it made for a lighthearted and memorable moment.
Dinner was on our own today, so a group of us went to Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest malls in Seoul. We opted for something familiar and grabbed dinner at Shake Shack. I had a classic burger and fries, and after several days of traditional Korean cuisine, the American comfort food really hit the spot. We also shopped at stores like Uniqlo, Salomon, and Onitsuka Tiger, where I picked up some shoes, linen pants, a dress shirt, and jean shorts.
To end the night, I returned to the hotel and relaxed by watching a movie with some peers. All in all, it was a full and exciting day packed with culture, learning, and fun.
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