Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being an elevator operator in Suwon is like riding a rollercoaster, but without the safety harness. So, I roll into work, right? It’s a sunny morning, and I’m thinkin’, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m stationed at the Suwon City Hall. You know, that big ol’ building on the corner of Gyeongsu-daero? Yeah, that one. I’m just minding my business, pressin’ buttons, and then BOOM! This lady rushes in, hair all wild, like she just got chased by a pack of dogs or somethin’. She’s like, “I need to get to the 10th floor, NOW!” I’m like, “Chill, lady, it’s just an elevator.” But she’s all frantic, and I’m thinkin’, “What’s the rush? Did she forget her lunch or somethin’?”
So, I hit the button, and we’re zoomin’ up. She’s breathin’ heavy, and I’m tryin’ to make small talk. “Nice day, huh?” She just glares at me. I mean, c’mon! I’m just tryna be friendly! Anyway, we get to the 10th floor, and she bolts out like a cheetah. I’m left there like, “What just happened?”
Then, it gets crazier. A few minutes later, this dude strolls in, all chill and relaxed. He’s got a coffee in one hand and a phone in the other. He’s like, “Hey man, can you take me to the 5th?” I’m like, “Sure thing, buddy.” But then, he starts talkin’ about the best BBQ spots in Suwon. I’m like, “Dude, I’m on the clock!” But he’s all about that food life, and I can’t help but get into it. We’re talkin’ about the best galbi on Jeongjo-ro, and I’m droolin’ like a dog.
But then, outta nowhere, the elevator stops. Just stops! I’m like, “Oh no, not today!” I hit the buttons like a madman, but nothing. I’m stuck with Mr. BBQ and his coffee. He’s chillin’, but I’m sweatin’ bullets. I’m thinkin’, “What if we’re stuck here forever? I’ll be known as the elevator guy who never got out!”
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the elevator jolts back to life. We hit the 5th floor, and I’m like, “Get out! Go eat your BBQ!” He laughs and says, “Thanks, man. You’re the best!” I’m like, “Yeah, sure, whatever.”
So, I’m back to my routine, and then I see this group of tourists. They’re lost, lookin’ for Hwaseong Fortress. I’m like, “Dude, you’re in Suwon! Just follow the signs!” But they’re all confused, and I can’t help but feel bad. So, I give ‘em directions, and they’re super grateful. One of ‘em even takes a selfie with me! I’m like, “What am I, a tourist attraction now?”
But then, the day takes a turn. This guy comes in, and he’s clearly had a rough day. He’s all grumpy, and I’m like, “What’s up, man?” He just grunts and says, “I hate elevators.” I’m like, “Bro, you’re in one right now!” But he’s not havin’ it. He starts ranting about how elevators are the worst invention ever. I’m just standin’ there, tryin’ not to laugh.
Finally, I get him to the 3rd floor, and he storms out. I’m like, “Good luck with that attitude, buddy!”
As the day winds down, I’m exhausted. I’ve seen it all: frantic ladies, BBQ lovers, lost tourists, and elevator haters. Suwon is wild, man! But I love it. The streets, the people, the food—everything’s a vibe.
So, I clock out, and as I walk home, I pass by the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress. It’s lit up, and I can’t help but smile. This city, man, it’s got its quirks, but it’s home. And tomorrow? Who knows what’ll happen next!