DMZ — The most fortified border in the world★★★
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is 50 km north of Seoul and one of the most surreal experiences on this earth — the border between South and North Korea, which has divided the Korean Peninsula since the armistice of 1953 (technically still at war). A 250 km long, 4 km wide zone full of minefields, barbed wire, and tension — and at the same time an unintended nature paradise, as no human has entered the area for 70 years.
The Joint Security Area (JSA) in Panmunjom is the highlight: Here, North and South Korean soldiers stand face to face. In the blue UN negotiation barracks, you can literally step over to North Korea — technically one of the few legal ways to set foot on North Korean soil. The atmosphere is electrifying and oppressive at the same time.
Other highlights of the DMZ tour:
- Dora Observatory: Viewing platform with binoculars through which you can see North Korean villages and the propaganda city Kijŏng-dong.
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel: A tunnel dug by North Korea, discovered in 1978 — 73 meters underground, wide enough for 30,000 soldiers per hour. You can walk 265 meters inside.
- Dorasan Station: The northernmost train station in South Korea — built for the day of reunification, with tracks leading to Pyongyang, but no train has run on them for decades.
- Imjingak Park: Freely accessible (without a tour), with the "Bridge of Freedom" and moving monuments for the divided families.
💡 Tipp
The DMZ can only be visited via organized tours — book online at least 3–5 days in advance (e.g., via Klook or local providers). For the JSA/Panmunjom, you need your passport. Dress code: no flip-flops, torn jeans, or military clothing. The full-day tour (8–9 hours including pickup in Seoul) costs ₩70,000–120,000 (49–85 €).
Achtung
The JSA can be closed at short notice due to military tensions — this happens several times a year. Book a tour that offers an alternative program in case of JSA closure. ID required: bring your passport!
