From Seoul: DMZ Tour with Optional North Korean Defector – How to Plan Your Trip

If you’re traveling to Seoul and curious about the Korean War and the division between North and South Korea, booking a DMZ tour is a must-do activity. The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a 250-kilometer border that separates North and South Korea. It’s a unique spot in the world and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Seoul. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan a DMZ tour with an optional add-on experience, the North Korean Defector tour.

Booking Your Tour

To begin, you’ll need to book your DMZ tour through the third-party provider site, GetYourGuide. The tour includes a guided DMZ tour, transportation via bus, entry tickets, and you have the option for hotel pickup (depending on the ticket option you purchase). You can also join your tour guide on an informative visit to the third tunnel built by North Korea for passage into Seoul and look out over the DMZ zone with Imjingak Park and the Dora Observatory. To book your tour, visit their website at GetYourGuide and follow the instructions.

The DMZ Tour Experience

On the day of your tour, you’ll be picked up at your hotel (depending on your ticket option) and taken by bus to the DMZ. You will enter the restricted DMZ area with your guide and gain access to observe key sights inside the DMZ. Highlights include going down the 3rd tunnel built by North Korea to invade the South, seeing the Dora Observatory, and the Dorasan Station. Your guide will provide valuable information and history concerning the Korean War and the division of North and South Korea.

The Optional North Korean Tour

For those who wish for a unique experience on their DMZ tour, an optional add-on to consider is the North Korean Defector tour. The tour offers a personal insight into North Korea through the voice of a defector who has managed to escape from the country. This tour requires separate reservations, so you’ll need to let your tour guide know if you’re interested. The North Korean Defector tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10.

Additional Information

Here’s some more important information you need to know before embarking on your DMZ tour:

What’s included:

• Guided DMZ Tour
• Transportation via bus
• Entry tickets
• Hotel pickup (depending on option selected)
• North Korean Defector to join (optional)

What’s not included:

• Personal expenses

Please note, the tour is not suitable for:

• Wheelchair users

Conclusion

Visiting the DMZ is a bucket list item for those interested in history and wanting to experience one of the most unique borders in the world. Be sure to book your DMZ tour ahead of time for a smooth and effortless experience in Seoul. Don’t forget to ask to add the North Korean defector experience for an even more unique and immersive tour!

Insider’s Guide to Seoul: Local Attractions, Dining, History, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient architecture and modern skyscrapers. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, Seoul has something to offer everyone – from history buffs and foodies to adventure seekers and nature lovers. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Seoul and experiencing its unique charm.

Local Attractions

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: One of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in the 14th century during the Joseon dynasty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace complex and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

2. Namsan Tower: Located atop Namsan Mountain, Namsan Tower offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. Visitors can take a cable car to the top, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of the city while sipping on a cup of traditional Korean tea.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village: Bukchon Hanok Village is a beautifully preserved traditional Korean neighborhood with narrow alleys and traditional houses dating back to the Joseon dynasty. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the village and experience what life was like in ancient Korea.

Dining

1. Gwangjang Market: Gwangjang Market is a bustling traditional food market that dates back to the early 1900s. Visitors can sample a wide variety of Korean street food, from savory pancakes to spicy rice cakes.

2. Myeong-dong: Myeong-dong is a trendy shopping district that’s renowned for its delicious street food. Among the must-try dishes are Korean-style fried chicken, mandu (steamed dumplings), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

3. Korean Barbecue: No trip to Seoul is complete without trying Korean barbecue, which typically involves grilling meat at the table and wrapping it in lettuce or other greens. Some of the best spots in the city for Korean barbecue include Maple Tree House and Hanilkwan.

Cultural Experiences

1. The National Museum of Korea: The National Museum of Korea is the largest museum in the country and houses more than 220,000 artifacts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum’s collections, which span Korea’s prehistoric period to present day.

2. Korean Traditional Tea Ceremony: The Korean Traditional Tea Ceremony is a must-try experience for tea lovers. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Korean tea while sipping on a cup of traditional tea.

3. Nanta: Nanta is a popular non-verbal performance that combines traditional Korean percussion music with comedic storytelling. Visitors can watch the lively performance at the Myeong-dong Nanta Theatre.

Local History

1. Changdeokgung Palace: Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the primary palace of the Joseon dynasty. Visitors can explore the palace’s beautiful architecture and gardens.

2. DMZ Tour: The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a buffer zone between North and South Korea, and a DMZ tour is a unique way to learn about the country’s history and culture. The Joint Security Area (JSA) and the Third Tunnel are two popular spots to visit during the tour.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Seoul, featuring vibrant painted murals throughout the neighborhood. Visitors can take a DIY walking tour and discover the murals for themselves.

2. Ihwa-dong Stone Wall Path: The Ihwa-dong Stone Wall Path is a peaceful walking trail that winds through a hillside neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil scenery and unique architecture of the homes along the way.

3. Gyeongui Line Forest Park: Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a former railroad track-turned-park that spans 4.3 kilometers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the park and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Seoul is a city that’s full of surprises, with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit any visitor’s interests. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient historical landmarks, tasting delicious Korean cuisine, experiencing traditional Korean culture, or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, Seoul has it all.