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What is the DMZ in Korea and is it Safe to Visit?

Chris Choi
South Korean JSA border guard wearing sunglass at the DMZ in Korea

As the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ in Korea) gets more and more attention in the mainstream media, we find ourselves inundated with questions, concerns and interest about our unique border, which separates us from North Korea. We, therefore, decided to create this post of frequently asked questions. We did our best to cover the main points of interest, but if we missed anything, feel free to ask us more questions in the comments below.

What is the DMZ in Korea?

The Korean Demilitarized Zone is where North and South Korea come together to form the most heavily-fortified border on the planet. DMZ Korea is the most unique destination in the country and one of the most fascinating places to see in the entire world. Curious travellers from all over the globe flock to experience this mysterious destination, hoping to gain an insider understanding of North Korea – the world’s most secretive country. Rated the number one tourist activity in the nation, the DMZ in Korea offers a deep dive into history, politics, and the Korean War.

Can you visit the DMZ in South Korea?

Not only can you visit the DMZ in Korea, but this is, in fact, a must! An estimated 1.2 million visitors come to this historic area each year. You will only be allowed to go on one of the official DMZ tours led by a licensed tour guide. Why? Due to its unique position as a heavily-guarded border, there are many rules to abide by in order to help maintain peace and stability. From how many people are allowed to enter at once to what time of day you can visit, the tours follow strict regulations imposed by the United Nations. Going on a certified tour is also the best way to learn all that is noteworthy in a safe and responsible manner.

What does DMZ stand for in Korea?

The DMZ sign post outside the DMZ theatre

The acronym “DMZ” means Demilitarized Zone. As its name suggests, it is a buffer zone between North and South Korea where no military personnel, installations or activities are allowed. It is also often regarded as a stretch of no man’s land and is roughly 4 KM wide. Its purpose is to preserve the peace between both sides and avoid military confrontations. The only exception to this rule is the Joint Security Area (JSA), where troops from both sides secure an area for peaceful talks and negotiation between the leaders. The best way to think of the DMZ is as a neutral ground where the North and South can communicate.

Is the DMZ in Korea considered a combat zone?

While South Korea’s DMZ comes as close to a combat zone as can be, there is usually no active military action. In other words, you hopefully will not see any shooting or other displays of power. In fact, the Korean Demilitarized Zone’s primary purpose is to foster peace, demonstrating that safety can be achieved without having to actively exhibit force. The zone does have some very particular aspects to it. For example, the sand along the fence is kept very neatly groomed so that South Korean and American soldiers can see whether there have been any infiltration attempts by North Korean soldiers.

How far is the DMZ from Seoul?

A sign at Imjingak shows that the distance to Seoul is 53 km, while Kaesong is just 22 km away.

The South Korean DMZ is located around 50 kilometers in distance from Seoul (38 kilometers from Pyongyang). The journey takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on where you depart from in the city and the current traffic conditions on the day. To get there, you need to pass through several military-controlled security checkpoints. Your tour guide will request your passport, and you will be required to present it to a soldier for inspection.

Does the 38th parallel still exist?

The name “38th parallel” pertains to the line dividing North from South Korea during World War II. You can also see it being referred to as “latitude 38° N.” The line was crafted according to the Potsdam Conference in July of 1945 by US military planners. The 38th parallel helped mark the Japanese surrender to the US on one side and the USSR on the other. Today, the DMZ intersects the 38th parallel but does not follow it according to the post-war division. The west side of the Korean Demilitarized zone falls by the South end of the parallel, and the DMZ’s east end reaches the parallel to the North.

So why is Korea still divided?

The end of World War II was immediately followed by the Cold War, where the North under Kim-II-Sung turned towards a communist regime, and the South, led by Syngman Rhee, became a United States ally. Due to their opposing choices, the two countries have remained separate.

What is the best DMZ tour?

At the DMZ Exhibition Hall with one of VIP Travel's tour guides

The best way to choose between your options is to understand the differences. A half day DMZ tour visits all the main spots, including Imjingak Park, The Bridge of Freedom, The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, The DMZ Theater & Exhibition Hall, Dora Observatory and Dorasan Station. While a full day DMZ JSA tour, also visits the Joint Security Area (JSA) in the afternoon.

It’s important to note that entering the JSA comes with further restrictions. Children need to be 12 years or older (no exceptions), there are limited numbers of people allowed to visit each day (controlled by UN Command), and bookings need to be placed at least 72 hours in advance.

Therefore if you wish to visit with younger children, have a busy schedule, or need to book on short notice, you should choose the half day option. If you wish to extend your visit to enter the JSA in the afternoon, then the full-day option is for you.

How long is the DMZ tour?

You have two options when it comes to the length of your tour. You can either opt for the half-day option or the full-day option. The Half Day DMZ tour is available at 8 AM and 11 AM, from Tuesday through Sunday. The duration is a total of six hours.

The full-day DMZ JSA tour is available Tuesday through Saturday and leaves at 8 AM. The duration of this tour is nine hours. Don’t forget to book at least 72 hours in advance so your tour leader can obtain the necessary permission for your entrance from UN Command.

Is the DMZ safe to visit?

On a DMZ tour looking across the border at Panmungak

While the DMZ in Korea is considered “the world’s most dangerous border,” there is no threat to civilians or visitors. Although still an active war zone, it has become a place of sustainable peace and therefore, the DMZ is safe to visit. The only aspect that may still appear dangerous is that numerous troops, both from the North, South, and the United States, protect the territory and can be seen actively patrolling the region. If you’re considering a tour of the DMZ, there is absolutely nothing to worry about as guided visits are permitted and help boost the country’s tourism economy.

Can you cross the Korean DMZ?

United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission Conference Room

In short: no, the Demilitarized Zone in Korea may not be crossed. This applies both to soldiers and visitors. While North and South Korea share this border, the two countries have different immigration and travel policies. The North is also notorious for its restrictions on travel, so venturing fully inside North Korea will need additional visa arrangements and paperwork.

What you can do, however, is cross the Military Demarcation Line, which is the actual border between the two countries. The line is located inside the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission (UNCMAC) building. In this case, you will technically be on North Korean territory.

Are there tigers in the DMZ?

Nature flourishing inside the demilitarized zone with green grasses, trees and streams

You may not know this about the Demilitarized Zone in Korea, but aside from being a key military point, the geographical region itself is incredibly biodiverse! There have been sightings of the endangered Siberian tiger within the zone. While most visitors flock here to learn about history and politics, some nature-enthusiasts are enticed by the possibility of spotting the rare cat. During the Korean War, a lot of farmland was abandoned due to the military conflict, so nature took over. The DMZ in Korea is now the home to numerous species of exotic birds, including white-naped and red-crowned cranes and the Amur leopard.

What do you wear to a DMZ tour?

Someone is posing in front of a sign at the Third Tunnel of Aggression during our DMZ tour from Seoul.

There is no specific dress code when visiting the DMZ, except for the Joint Security Area (JSA), which does have a strict dress code. The reason for these rules is that you are visiting an important geopolitical area, and by dressing appropriately, you show respect. Furthermore, there have been attempts to use photos of casually dressed tourists to spread propaganda in North Korea by suggesting that the rest of the world is poor.

If visiting the JSA, you will not be allowed in with ripped jeans, tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or T-shirts without a collar. Shorts and miniskirts are also a no-no. Please refrain from wearing any clothing that may have military print on it or any attire that shows a national flag or spells out nationality. Workout clothes, which may be a bit of a surprise, aren’t allowed either, even though you’re donning a new pair of Fila sweatpants. 

Now, on the topic of what you can wear to the JSA – you are more than welcome to wear comfortable attire, such as shirts, blouses, slacks, jeans, a knee-length dress with a cardigan or long sleeves. You can choose loafers, moccasins, or dressier sneakers for shoes, but stay away from sandals.

Can South Koreans go to North Korea?

North Korea is notorious for its secrecy and tight travel restrictions. Currently, South Koreans are allowed to visit the DMZ as a part of an organized excursion. During the Korean War, many families were separated from loved ones who are now allowed to reunite at Mount Kumgang, a resort close to the shared border. Otherwise, for a South Korean citizen to travel North, they would need to receive an official letter of invitation from North Korea’s government. In January 2020, CNN reported that North Korea is considering new rules to let their neighbours travel independently for tourism. That plan, however, is still in development.

Can you take pictures at the DMZ?

Due to safety policies, you need to be mindful of where you can and cannot take photos at the DMZ in Korea. For the most part, the DMZ is safe for photos, while the JSA has some strict rules to follow. For example, if visiting the JSA, you will be given a waiver to sign upon entering the DMZ, which includes instructions on photography.

The waiver also states that you bear responsibility for yourself during the tour in case of an injury, accident, or even death. Legally, the paperwork needs to convey these things, but this should not worry you because you will be accompanied by a tour guide who has led these groups hundreds of times. After all, this is the number 1 rated activity in South Korea!

The Third Infiltration Tunnel is an area that explicitly prohibits taking photos. You will be asked to leave your phone and camera in a locker during your visit, free of charge. The other restriction to bear in mind is to never, under any circumstance, take photos of North Korean border guards, which is also prohibited. Otherwise, unless advised against, you are free to take pictures inside the DMZ. If you have any questions or are unsure, it’s best to ask your tour guide.

Why do South Korean soldiers wear sunglasses?

South Korean JSA border guard wearing sunglass at the DMZ in Korea

Visitors to the DMZ in Korea have noticed that the South Korean border guards wear sunglasses. Is this a fashion statement? Not exactly. The mandatory military attire for a South Korean border guard includes a helmet for protection and a pair of dark sunglasses. The reason is that as the nature of the soldiers’ work requires them to be even-keeled in all situations, the sunglasses help them conceal any emotion that may become evident. In other words, the sunglasses are a small accessory that helps South Korean soldiers achieve a look of neutrality without their faces giving away hints of information.

What is the Joint Security Area?

Looking at Panmungak from Freedom House during our DMZ JSA tour

The Joint Security Area (JSA) is a territory within the Demilitarized Zone. Also known as Panmunjom or the Truce Village, this is one of the most exciting places to visit inside the DMZ in Korea. Here, you will see opposing soldiers stand face-to-face! The role of the JSA is to serve as a neutral place for negotiation between the two nations, supported by the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission (UNCMAC).

The JSA is heavily regulated. Remember to make reservations 72 hours in advance, take note of the dress code and the youngest person in your group needs to be 12-years-old or above.

How many landmines are in the DMZ?

A warning sign about landmines at the DMZ

According to the Korea Times, there are one million landmines hidden inside the DMZ. They were installed during the Korean War, between 1950-1953. In 2018, efforts began to remove landmines from both sides of the DMZ. While there have been a few accidents, mainly in the areas outside of the DMZ, you don’t need to worry about your visit. The entire region of the Korean Demilitarized Zone has been secured and is safe for tourism.

What can you do at DMZ Korea?

People are crossing the Bridge of Freedom at Imjingak. In the background, you can see the railway bridge that connects with Freedom Bridge.

The South Korea DMZ has plenty of activities for those looking to understand geopolitics and history. For example, on a typical DMZ trip, you will see Imjingak Park, which was built as a safe space where the newly arrived refugees from North Korea received consolation. You’ll pass by the Unification Pond, the design of which is modelled after the shape of the Korean peninsula. This is a beautiful spot to take photos! Right next to the pond, you’ll find Peace Bell.

You will have the chance to literally walk through history as you cross the Bridge of Freedom, erected in 1953 and used to liberate 12,773 prisoners! Another sight not to be missed is the Third Infiltration Tunnel. Exploring the inside of the tunnel is arguably one of the most exciting parts of the tour. The tunnel is 1,635 meters-long, at two meters in height and two wide. It was discovered by South Korea in 1978. The original purpose of the tunnel was to allow the North to spy into the enemy camp.

Dorasan (Dora) Observatory will give you a fantastic bird’s eye view of the Korean DMZ, and on a clear day, you can catch an unhindered glimpse into the mysterious North. For the history buffs, the DMZ Exhibition Hall and DMZ Theater hold years worth of fascinating facts, documents, and photos.

Who owns the DMZ in Korea?

A soldier standing guard in front of the Bridge of No Return facing North

The DMZ zone in Korea is neutral territory and therefore isn’t owned by either side. If you’re wondering who governs the DMZ, The United States helps patrol the area according to the MDL (Military Demarcation Line), joined by troops from each of the two Koreas. Both troops have specific parameters that allow them to patrol without stepping on enemy territory. The middle of the DMZ has two kilometres on each end that are free of all military personnel. Neither side is allowed to cross the MDL. Doing so will be perceived as an act of aggression and lead to a conflict.

Where did Trump and Kim Jong-un meet at the DMZ?

President Donald Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un shake hands across the border at the DMZ in Korea

In 2019, the United States President Donald Trump met Kim Jong-un, North Korea’s Supreme leader, at a section of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) between Freedom House and Panmungak. This section of the MDL is located inside the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone in Korea. During the meeting, Kim invited Trump to briefly cross over to North Korean soil, where they shook hands and took photos. After stepping back into South Korean territory, the two leaders were greeted by South Korea’s President Moon Jae-In.

How wide is the DMZ?

The DMZ in Korea is about 4 km wide and 238 km long. According to recent satellite research by Chungnam National University in 2017, the area of the DMZ comprises 904 km2. The lines were originally drawn at the end of the Korean War in 1953, where the forces of each nation were pulled back by two kilometres from the ceasefire line.

How many US troops are stationed in the Korean DMZ?

Entering Camp Bonifas on our JSA tour

On the South Korean side of the JSA, military support is provided by the United Nations Command Security Battalion. The battalion includes about 650 troops, of which the United States troops make up for 10%, and local South Korean forces comprise the remaining 90%. The battalion guards their assigned premises 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Have there been any incidents at the DMZ?

As the area is inherently an active war zone that separates two opposing nations, there have been a few DMZ incidents over the years. The “Axe Murder Incident” is perhaps the most famous. On August 18th, 1976, two United States Army officers were killed by North Korean forces. General Arthur Bonifas and First Lieutenant Mark Barrett were killed with an axe at the JSA. The pair were cutting down a tree within the Joint Security Area when a conflict arose, ultimately leading to their fatal end.

A more recent incident at the DMZ that made international media coverage pertains to Oh Chong Song – a North Korean soldier who tried to defect and escape the country on November 13, 2017. The soldier drove a green jeep and smashed right through a military checkpoint. He was shot five times but managed to survive.

When was the Korean War?

The Korean War was fought between 1950 and 1953, although it is technically still ongoing as no formal treaty ending the war has yet been signed. The Korean War officially started on the 25th of June 1950 after North Korea invaded South Korea under the leadership of Kim Il-sung. The fighting continued until the war was paused on the 27th July 1953 by delegates from both sides signing the Korean Armistice Agreement at Panmunjom.

How long was the Korean War?

As there is yet to be a formal treaty signed to end the Korean War between South and North Korea, both sides are still “on paper” technically at war. This means that so far the war has lasted for more than 7 decades, although the main confrontation lasted for 3 years between 1950 and 1953.

Why is the DMZ considered by many to be one of the most dangerous places in the world?

Even today, DMZ Korea is still considered to be an extremely dangerous and hazardous place. Many of the landmines installed during the 1950s are still active, and every few years, there is an incident of a soldier or civilian setting one-off or coming into contact with an unexploded mine. The border between North and South Korea is still the most heavily fortified globally, and open fire across it still occurs from time to time. In addition, there have been many DMZ incidents, including some quite recently.

When did Korea split?

The Korean Peninsula was divided in two at the 38th degree parallel line after the defeat of Japan in World War 2. The United States had set out to define an American Occupation Zone on August 10th, 1945. Surprisingly, the Soviet Union immediately agreed to the division line set forth by the Americans on August 17th, 1945. This was just short of 5 years before the onset of the Korean War in 1950.

How many people died in the Korean War?

It is estimated that roughly 1-5 million people, including military personnel and civilians, died during the Korean War from 1950-1953. However, official government records of confirmed deaths are, of course, much lower. Getting an accurate number is quite challenging as the remains of many civilians and military personnel are still missing. According to research published in 2020 by Statista, confirmed military deaths include 137,899 South Korean, 520,000 North Korean, 116,000 Chinese and 40,670 United Nations soldiers.

Can children visit the Korea DMZ?

In general, yes. For most areas accessible to visitors of the DMZ, it is considered safe for children to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. However, particular sites that are more politically sensitive or pose a danger and are therefore not appropriate for young children do have age restrictions for entry. Therefore it is essential to check your tour details carefully beforehand for any age restrictions or contact your tour company in advance. As UN Command sets these rules, they are therefore not negotiable.

What else would you like to know?

Feel free to ask us any questions you have about the DMZ in Korea, and we’ll do our best to answer them for you in the comments below.

7 thoughts on “What is the DMZ in Korea and is it Safe to Visit?”

  1. With the military exercises by North and South Korea, can one visit the DMZ in December of this year? I had a tour, but they canceled without explanation.
    Thank you.

    Reply
  2. I can’t believe there are civilian tours of the DMZ. We’re (US) standing on the wall for these people and they treat it like a fun afternoon. Kamala Harris should move to North Korea. I was stationed in Seoul 76-78. I went up there once to inspect the record keeping. It was silent.

    Reply

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