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South Korea Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour in Seoul: Everything You Need to Know

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

South Korea Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour in Seoul: Everything You Need to Know

Exploring the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea is an awe-inspiring experience and a must-see for visitors to South Korea. The DMZ is the heavily fortified 4 kilomater-wide strip of land that has divided the two Koreas since the Korean War in 1953. The border runs 250 kilometers from east to west along the 38th parallel and is the world’s most heavily armed border – both sides are highly militarized with land mines, razor wire, and watchtowers. Today, the DMZ is a popular day-trip destination, however, on a limited scheduling you might not have time to visit on your own – this is why a Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour in Seoul would be the best option to learn about this unique area and its history without needing to self organize or stress about transportation.

What You Can Expect From a DMZ Tour from Seoul

DMZ tours from Seoul generally start off with the picking up of passengers from their hotels between 8-9am and then heading to the Imjingak Resort located near the Demilitarized Zone. This marked the last stop before crossing into North Korea during the war, and these days it serves as a Park and Memorial. Here, visitors on a DMZ tour can also visit the Freedom Bridge, an old bridge worn away by time and littered with padlocks symbolizing the hearts of many who cannot yet return to their homes in North Korea.

Once tour participants have had their fill soakng in the somber atmosphere of Imjingak, they will then be taken to the Migusel Observatory nearby, where they will be able to view from afar the last city built by North Korea – Gijeong-dong – as well as a fake city built by the South just to mimic its northern counterpart. On a clear day, tour particpants can also catch a glimpse of some of North Korea’s highest mountain peaks on the horizon as well.

The DMZ Tour from Seoul Obviously Also Includes The Joint Secruity Area (JSA)

The highlight of any Demilitarized Zone tour from Seoul is no doubt the Joint Security Area (JSA) or Panmunjom. Upon entering, visitors are expected to present valid identification cards, after which they will enter into a small group tour singed by troops and brought to various observatories such as the Bridge of No Return where prisoners of war were exchanged after the Korean War, and buildungs within the Joint Security Area itself such as The United Nations Command Building, Freedom House and more. Inside here, participants on a DMZ tour will take photos with the North Korean soldiers guarding their side of the border while North Korean troops look on from afar and always one DMZ guard stands sentry at The Third Infiltration Tunnel, a secret tunnel dug by North Korea under the DMZ as an attack path for invasion.

Bonus: Learn About The Armistice Signing At The Dora Observatory

Depending on how much time remains after touring around the JSA, visitors may also be taken to the Dora Observatory which offers a stunning panoramic view of North Korean territory as well as Gaesung, a/k/a/ “Korea’s Shanghai” and one of North Korea’s main cities. Inside is also a giant replica of the Armistice agreement which ended the Korean War, signed on July 27, 1953, ending hostilities in the still ongoing war.

Booking the DMZ Half & Full Day Tour Seoul

A DMZ tour from Seoul is one of the most popular South Korean tours and is often booked very quickly months in advance. To guarantee yourself entry into the 1-Day or Half-Day Tour from Seoul it is recommended to book through trusted online travel companies such as GetYourGuide . The 1-Day Tour costs 85€ per person while the Half Day Tour is slightly cheaper at €75 per person and includes round-trip bus transport from Seoul, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

Safety Concerns When Going On The DMZ Tour From Seoul

Safety is always one of tourists’ top concerns when visiting the Demilitarized Zone, given that they are within close proximity to North Korean forces during their visit. For peace of mind when visiting this unique area it is best to book through a reliable tour agency such as GetYourGuide that offers only certified vehicle transfers and licensed guides for your safety. Furthermore, when inside the Joint Security Area, visitors are not allowed to wander around freely or make large movements or gestures that could be misconstrued as being hostile or aggressive towards North Korean forces – afterall, tensions between South and North are still very much alive! By staying aware and following instructions outlined by your tour guide you can remain safe at all times.

In Conclusion

Exploring the Korean Demilitarized Zone is an incredible experience that no travelers itinerary should miss out on during their visit to South Korea. With its fascinating history it is no wonder why so many travellers flock to this unique area every year seeking knowledge and understanding of what went on here some 8 decades ago during this still uncertain war. By booking your DMZ Tour with GetYourGuide you can ensure your safety while also supporting this important destination which deserves travellers of all types!

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South Korea Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour in Seoul: Everything You Need to Know

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!