Korea is surely the only country with such a marked division of its territory. The DMZ originates from the end of World War II, when the peninsula was split at the 38th parallel by the Soviet Union and the United States as they drove Japan out of Korea. North Korea had tried, with Soviet Union Consent, to invade the South part to impose communism through the peninsula but eventually failed. Therefore following the tragic Korean War (June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953), South Korea and North Korea have set up a border separating the Korean peninsula in two with the armistice signed in 1953. Stretching over 2 km from both sides of the border is one of the last remains of the Cold War: the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)(even if actually she is militarized). Besides, the South Korean capital station less than 35 miles away from the fenced-off, landed mined, over-guarded DMZ. But if this no-man land is considered as one of the scariest places in the world it is nonetheless arousing great interest from the public and therefore attracts many tourists, making it one of the most popular destinations for anyone visiting Korea.
Despite the fact that it is the most heavily armed border worldwide, it is rare that hostilities took place there. Today, it is rather a safe destination that we firmly recommend to all travelers. More importantly, the DMZ and its surroundings contain many interesting historical sites, all mixed with a well-preserved natural setting.
DMZ is one of the only thing can do in Korea, check-out more things to do in Korea> 10 Things you can only do in Korea
Here are some places you should not miss along with the “DMZ” demilitarized zone:
The JSA (Joint security area) in the militarized zone also called Panmunjeom
Located next to the DMZ, 50km north of Seoul and 10km east of the city of Gaeseong, this place is famous for the peace negotiations that took place on October 25, 1951. Afterward, it was designated as Common Security Zone July 27, 1953, at the signing of the armistice agreement. If you chose the Dmz you won’t visit that place highly secured. Indeed you would need to book a JSA tour if you wish to visit it.
Imjingak
The Imjingak building, located 7 km from the Military Demarcation Line, is compulsory for tourists interested in the Korean conflict. It was built in 1972 aspiring that someday unification would be reachable. This three-storied building is surrounded by monuments, park and a center dedicated to North Korea.
At the opposite you will find Mangbaedan Alter, the place where Koreans whose families were separated, come and visit to pray during New Year and Chuseok days.
The 3rd Tunnel
The tunnel was discovered in 1978 in over 73 meters underground and seems to have been dug in preparation for a military attack by the North. Claustrophobic, beware! The tunnel can be very busy, and although it is wide enough to allow the passage of two people ( 1.64 kilometers long, 2 meters high and 2 meters wide). It is buried deep below the surface.
Eulji Observation Platform
Eulji Observation Platform, near the Military Demarcation line, is one of the most interesting relics from the Korean conflict. From here, you can see not only North soldiers on guard but also the Birobong Peak of the geumgansan mountain on clear days. More than one hundred thousand people visit that place every year.
When visiting, rather than evidence of the Korean War, you will feel the wishes and hopes for the future of a reunited Korea.
Tip when visiting the DMZ: Please note that civilian access to the DMZ is strictly controlled and that certain nationalities are not allowed to visit. You have to take a DMZ tour package, dress and behave properly : usually collared shirts for men, and no ripped jeans, revealing clothing or open-toed shoes. Only children over ten years are permitted.
We offer you different DMZ experiences, check out our Korean War History Tour, Half Day DMZ Tour, DMZ Primeval forest Tour,
