• By: RIYANKA
• Dec 16, 2024
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A Guide to Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): A Day Trip From Seoul

Have you ever wondered how it feels when people who share the same language, food, and culture are separated by a border? Or what it’s like to lose your home, family, and friends simply because a line is drawn on a map? How do you cope with the pain of not being able to call or write to loved ones across that line?

The Korean separation, to me, is the story of millions of broken dreams – of lives spent holding on to fragments of hope.

One place that captures this heartbreak is the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the most heavily fortified border on Earth. This buffer zone was established in 1953 as part of the armistice agreement to end the Korean War, yet it remains a symbol of unresolved conflict.

When we planned our trip to South Korea, visiting the DMZ was at the top of my list. Having read and heard so much about North Korea over the years, I couldn’t wait to see the border up close.

There’s something haunting yet fascinating about this place where two worlds stand still, separated by a fragile truce.

And on the day of the trip, I found myself both eager and introspective, ready to step into a space that holds so many untold stories of division and longing.

About the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

As I mentioned earlier, the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) came into existence after the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed in 1953. While it successfully halted the Korean War, it didn’t lead to a formal peace treaty. Stretching about 250 kilometers in length and 4 kilometers in width, the DMZ splits the Korean Peninsula roughly in half.

Ironically, despite its name, the DMZ is one of the most heavily militarized borders in the world. Both North and South Korea maintain a strong military presence on either side, and the tension has been palpable ever since the armistice was signed.

At the heart of the DMZ lies the Joint Security Area (JSA)—a place where North and South Korean officials have historically met face-to-face. It’s the only spot in the DMZ where troops from both sides literally stand across from each other. Normally, guided tours to the DMZ include a visit to the JSA, but currently, it’s closed to the public. This closure dates back to 2023 when an American soldier crossed over to North Korea during a tour. So far, there’s been no update on when or if JSA tours will resume.

Even though the JSA is off-limits, there’s still plenty to explore in the DMZ and its surrounding areas. It’s one of those places where history feels alive, and every corner has a story to tell.

A Day Trip to Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Seoul

During our group trip to South Korea, we decided to take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Seoul. Visiting this historic site isn’t as simple as just showing up, rather, taking an official tour is mandatory.

In fact, there’s no way to explore the DMZ on your own. No shortcuts, no solo hacks!

The only way in is through an official tour company, accompanied by a registered guide. It’s a bit restrictive, but honestly, it’s part of what makes the experience feel so unique and structured.

Our DMZ tour lasted nearly seven hours, starting with a pickup from Dongdaemun in Seoul around 10 AM. It took us about an hour and a half to reach the DMZ, during which our guide gave us a detailed history of the Korean Peninsula and shared interesting stories as well.

One of the stories that I loved was about Chung Ju-yung, the owner of the famous automobile brand, Hyundai. In 1998, he became the first civilian to cross the Korean Demilitarized Zone since the division of Korea, herding 1,001 cows into North Korea, the place where he was born. He described it as repaying a debt a thousandfold for the single cow he had taken from his father’s farm to afford his escape years earlier.

While our guide kept us hooked on her stories, time passed by the wink of an eye, and we reached DMZ.

What to see at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)?

Imjingak Peace Park

The first stop was Imjingak Peace Park, located in Paju, Gyeonggi-do, just near the DMZ. This park was created to console those separated from their families during the Korean War and to serve as a space for reflection and hope for reunification.

One of the key attractions here is the Bridge of Freedom, used by South Korean and UN soldiers returning from the North after the armistice. It stands as a symbol of hope for eventual freedom and reunification. Another notable site is the Wall of Remembrance, engraved with the names of those who lost their lives or were separated from their families due to the war.

Imjingak is also associated with Dorasan Station, the northernmost railway station in South Korea. While trains currently don’t run into North Korea, the station serves as a powerful symbol of the dream to reconnect the two Koreas through a shared railway network someday.

A quirky find here was a small shop selling North Korean postal stamps and currency notes. It was fascinating to browse through these little pieces of history!

Dora Observatory

Next, we headed to the Dora Observatory. On the way, we passed a military checkpoint where South Korean soldiers boarded our bus to check passports against the passenger list. It’s important to note that photography is strictly prohibited at checkpoints and other specific spots, so always pay attention to your guide’s instructions.

Located atop Mount Dora, the observatory offers stunning panoramic views of North Korea, including the Kaesong Industrial Complex, the city of Kaesong, and the Military Demarcation Line, which divides the two Koreas.

Before heading to the observation deck, we watched a short documentary about the Korean War and the DMZ. The observatory has telescopes that let you peek into North Korea. If you aim them right, you can spot the towering North Korean flagpole. Standing there, gazing into another world, felt surreal—like history coming alive in front of my eyes.

The Third Tunnel

Our next stop was the Third Infiltration Tunnel, discovered in 1978. It’s one of several tunnels believed to have been dug by North Korea as part of a plan for a surprise attack on the South.

The tunnel is about 1.7 kilometers long, with a height and width of just 2 meters each, and it was dug straight through solid rock. As you can imagine, it’s quite narrow and claustrophobic inside!

Visitors are given hard hats for safety, and while walking through it felt adventurous, it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. The climb back up is steep, so be prepared to catch your breath. No photography is allowed inside due to security concerns, but crawling through that dim, rocky space was a one-of-a-kind experience that left us all buzzing with excitement.

Unification Village

The final stop on our tour was Daeseong-dong, or Unification Village, a small farming community located within the southern part of the DMZ. This village is the only civilian-inhabited area within the DMZ and is home to South Koreans who live under strict restrictions and monitoring.

Interestingly, the village has loudspeakers used to broadcast messages and music into North Korea – something North Korea responds to with its own loudspeakers. This back-and-forth adds to the surreal atmosphere of the place, and to me, it was indeed surprising how these two countries communicate with each other!

There’s also a tiny shop here where you can buy DMZ-themed souvenirs and snacks. It’s a quirky way to wrap up the tour while reflecting on the resilience of those who live here, straddling two worlds.

How to book a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)?

The DMZ is a highly sensitive zone with strict security protocols, so visiting it isn’t as simple as driving to Paju and exploring. Except for Imjingak Peace Park, which is open to the public, all other areas require joining a guided tour. These tours are carefully organized to ensure visitor safety and follow all regulations.

We booked our DMZ tour through GetYourGuide, and I’d definitely recommend it. It’s one of the most budget-friendly options and covers all the key spots in the area. Plus, I always enjoy traveling with local guides—they bring the experience to life with their fascinating stories and insights!

Some tips for the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) daytrip from Seoul

• Dress smartly – Apparently, North Korean soldiers sometimes photograph tourists in casual outfits like ripped jeans to use as propaganda, painting the outside world as poor and unsafe. It’s best to avoid giving them any material!
• Don’t forget your passport – You must double-check for this! Without the passport, you won’t even get past the entry point at DMZ.
• Pack essential medicines and warm clothes – If you need something like an asthma inhaler, keep it handy. The climb back up from the Third Tunnel is steep and chilly, so carrying a light jacket would be good. You’ll need to leave bags in a locker, but small items can stay in your pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions about Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

1. What is the DMZ?
The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a 4-kilometer-wide buffer zone that runs 250 kilometers across the Korean Peninsula, separating North and South Korea. It was established in 1953 following the Korean Armistice Agreement.

2. Can tourists visit the DMZ?
Yes, but only through guided tours. Independent access to most parts of the DMZ is not allowed due to strict security measures.

3. What do I need to bring for a DMZ tour?
You’ll need your passport for identification and entry. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as some parts of the tour involve walking or steep climbs.

4. Is it safe to visit the DMZ?
Yes, DMZ tours are well-regulated and designed with visitor safety in mind. However, it’s still an active military zone, so adhering to the tour guide’s instructions is crucial.

5. What are the main attractions at the DMZ?

• Imjingak Peace Park: A place of reflection with landmarks like the Bridge of Freedom and the Wall of Remembrance.
• Dora Observatory: Offers views of North Korea, including the Kaesong Industrial Complex and a North Korean village.
• Third Infiltration Tunnel: A tunnel dug by North Korea that visitors can explore with safety helmets.
• Dorasan Station: The northernmost train station in South Korea, symbolizing the hope for reunification.

6. Is the Joint Security Area (JSA) open to visitors?
As of now, JSA tours are temporarily suspended due to a security incident in 2023, when a U.S. soldier recently crossed into North Korea during a tour, prompting the United Nations Command to indefinitely suspend all tours in the area, including the JSA and surrounding Panmunjom village; this incident is considered a major security breach at the highly sensitive border between North and South Korea.

There’s no confirmation on when they will resume.

7. Can I take photos during the DMZ tour?
Photography is restricted in certain areas, such as military checkpoints and inside the Third Tunnel. Always ask your tour guide for clarification.

8. How long does a DMZ tour take?
Most tours last about 6–8 hours, including travel time from Seoul.

9. Is there a souvenir shop at the DMZ?
Yes, there are shops at stops like Imjingak Peace Park and the Unification Village, selling unique items like North Korean currency and stamps.

10. Is there a chance of seeing North Korean soldiers?
You may spot North Korean soldiers from a distance, especially at observatories like Dora Observatory.