Today started early at 9:00 AM as we headed to Seoul City Hall. When we arrived, I was immediately amazed by how massive and modern the building was. What stood out to me the most was how the architecture combined technology and nature so seamlessly. Even though it was a modern government building, it still felt deeply connected to nature, with plants and trees incorporated throughout the interior. Near the main entrance, there was even a huge vertical garden stretching across the wall, which instantly caught my attention.
I became really curious about how all the plants inside the building were maintained and watered, especially since there were so many of them. Our tour guide explained that the plants are watered automatically using computer-aided technology and smart systems. I found that really fascinating because it showed how Seoul integrates sustainability and technology into everyday spaces. It was interesting to see how advanced systems are used not just for transportation and infrastructure, but also for maintaining greenery inside buildings.
As we continued exploring Seoul City Hall, the tour guide explained more about how the city operates and how the building itself was designed to be environmentally friendly. We also visited a library inside the building, which was beautifully designed and felt very open and welcoming. While walking around, I noticed solar panels and learned that parts of the city hall are powered through solar energy. I really liked seeing how much effort is put into sustainability and renewable energy here in Korea.
Later in the day, we visited the Arisu Water Treatment Plant, and that was a really educational experience. There, we learned about the different processes involved in cleaning and filtering water before it becomes safe to use. They explained steps like coagulation, charcoal filtration, sand filtration, and several other purification methods. It was very interesting to see how much work and technology go into something as simple as clean water that we use every day without thinking about it. While exploring the facility, I also noticed solar panels, which showed that even the water treatment systems are incorporating renewable energy and sustainable technology.
After finishing the tour, we headed to dinner at a Korean barbecue restaurant, which was honestly one of the best parts of the day. The experience was unique because a grill was built right into the middle of the table, and they cooked the meat directly in front of us. Everything smelled amazing, and the food tasted even better. Along with the barbecue, we also got glass noodles and kimchi pancakes, which I really enjoyed trying. The whole atmosphere felt lively and fun, and it was such a great way to end the day after all the exploring and learning.
Overall, today was such a fun and memorable experience. I loved how the day brought together technology, sustainability, education, and food. From learning about smart city systems and water treatment to ending the night with Korean barbecue, it was another amazing day in Seoul that I will definitely remember.