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Book DMZ Tours from Seoul
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- Spend half a day exploring everything DMZ Seoul offers with an expert guide, hotel pickup, and AC transfers, as you learn all about post-war Korea.
- At Imjingak Park, visit memorials like the Mangbaedan Altar, where separated families honor their ancestors and the iconic Bridge of Freedom.
- Walk (or crawl) through the damp and dark war-secret '3rd Infiltration Tunnel', built to transport 30,000+ soldiers per hour to invade South Korea.
- View North Korea's landscapes, the infamous Propaganda Village, the super-tall North Korean Flagpole, the Imjin River, and more, from Dora Observatory.
- Stop by Unification Village near the DMZ for souvenirs, including items themed around peace and reconciliation and goods from North Korea.
- Spend half a day exploring everything DMZ Seoul offers with an expert guide, hotel pickup, and AC transfers, as you learn all about post-war Korea.
- At Imjingak Park, visit memorials like the Mangbaedan Altar, where separated families honor their ancestors and the iconic Bridge of Freedom.
- Walk (or crawl) through the damp and dark war-secret '3rd Infiltration Tunnel', built to transport 30,000+ soldiers per hour to invade South Korea.
- View North Korea's landscapes, the infamous Propaganda Village, the super-tall North Korean Flagpole, the Imjin River, and more, from Dora Observatory.
- Stop by Unification Village near the DMZ for souvenirs, including items themed around peace and reconciliation and goods from North Korea.
Inclusions
- Half-day tour of DMZ
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Admission to all the attractions
- Round-trip transfers from Seoul
Exclusions
- Hotel drop-off
- Rough itinerary of the experience
- Pickup from hotel in Seoul
- Imjingak Park
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- Lunchtime
- Dora Observatory
- Unification Village
- Drop off at Seoul
- This tour is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have medical conditions like high blood pressure, seniors, or those with mobility issues.
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- With round-trip shared transfers in an AC vehicle, and an expert English guide, tour DMZ, and visit either Mt Gamaksan or Lake Majang Suspension Bridge.
- Visit Imjingak Park symbolic of the Korean War, that houses the Mangbaedan Altar, the Bridge of Freedom, a war-beaten steam locomotive, and more.
- Brave into the dimly lit 3rd Infiltration Tunnel dug by North Korea, before heading to Dora Observatory to look into North Korean cities like Kaesong.
- Unification Village welcomes you to peek into their peaceful, agricultural life filled with hope before you head out of DMZ.
- Thrill seekers will love the Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, while the Lake Majang Suspension Bridge offers serene lake views. Pick one.
- With round-trip shared transfers in an AC vehicle, and an expert English guide, tour DMZ, and visit either Mt Gamaksan or Lake Majang Suspension Bridge.
- Visit Imjingak Park symbolic of the Korean War, that houses the Mangbaedan Altar, the Bridge of Freedom, a war-beaten steam locomotive, and more.
- Brave into the dimly lit 3rd Infiltration Tunnel dug by North Korea, before heading to Dora Observatory to look into North Korean cities like Kaesong.
- Unification Village welcomes you to peek into their peaceful, agricultural life filled with hope before you head out of DMZ.
- Thrill seekers will love the Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, while the Lake Majang Suspension Bridge offers serene lake views. Pick one.
Inclusions
- Full-day guided tour of DMZ
- Admission to all attractions
- Visit Lake Majang or Mt Gamaksan Suspension Bridge (based on option selected)
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Pick-up and drop-off at Seoul
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions
- Lunch
Rough itinerary of the experience
- Pickup from Seoul
- Imjingak Park
- Bridge of Freedom
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- Lunch time
- Dora Observatory
- Unification Village
- Mt. Gamaksan (or) Lake Majang Suspension Bridge
- Drop off at Seoul
- Tip: Try some of the DMZ's unique souvenirs. You can buy all sorts of weird and wonderful souvenirs at the DMZ, including North Korean currency, propaganda posters, and even pieces of the Berlin Wall
- This tour is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have medical conditions like high blood pressure, seniors, or those with mobility issues.
- Choose safety and comfort: Entering the Third Tunnel is not ideal for pregnant people, those with certain medical conditions (high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.), and seniors.
- Have your passport ready for a seamless experience. Ensure your passport is within at least 6 months of validity.
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Set off on a guided full-day adventure to the historic DMZ and scenic Lake Majang Suspension Bridge, with convenient round-trip transfers from Seoul.
- Explore Imjingak Park's poignant war memorials, and cross the symbolic Freedom Bridge, a path that led many refugees to safety in South Korea.
- Descend into the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, one of four dug by North Korea for an ambush, and learn about the DMZ's history at the DMZ Theater/Exhibition Hall.
- Witness the divided peninsula from Dora Observatory's powerful binoculars and visit Dorasan Station, a former train station now symbolizing hope for unification.
- Traverse Lake Majang Suspension Bridge, a testament to the brave British troops. Visit Unification Village, where divided families briefly reunite.
- Set off on a guided full-day adventure to the historic DMZ and scenic Lake Majang Suspension Bridge, with convenient round-trip transfers from Seoul.
- Explore Imjingak Park's poignant war memorials, and cross the symbolic Freedom Bridge, a path that led many refugees to safety in South Korea.
- Descend into the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, one of four dug by North Korea for an ambush, and learn about the DMZ's history at the DMZ Theater/Exhibition Hall.
- Witness the divided peninsula from Dora Observatory's powerful binoculars and visit Dorasan Station, a former train station now symbolizing hope for unification.
- Traverse Lake Majang Suspension Bridge, a testament to the brave British troops. Visit Unification Village, where divided families briefly reunite.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of DMZ
- Visit to Lake Majang Suspension Bridge
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Admission to all the attractions
- Round-trip transfers from Seoul
- Pickup from Seoul
- Imjingak Park
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- DMZ Theater/Exhibition Hall
- Dora Observatory
- Dorasan Station
- Unification Village
- Suspension Bridge
- Drop off at Seoul
- Tip: To make the most of your visit to the DMZ, come prepared with questions for your knowledgeable guide.
- This tour is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have medical conditions like high blood pressure, seniors, or those with mobility issues.
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
From Seoul: Half-Day DMZ Guided Tour with Round Trip Transfers (by PLK Travel)
- Explore the tense border between North and South Korea on a half-day guided tour of the DMZ by PLK Travel, complete with convenient round-trip transfers.
- Witness history at Imjingak Park with the poignant Mangbaedan Altar, cross the Bridge of Freedom, and spot a steam locomotive with an English-speaking guide.
- Venture 73m underground into the 3rd Invasion Tunnel, a secret passage built by North Korea, and peek into the hermit kingdom from the Dora Observatory.
- Visit Unification Village, a small farming community where the hopes for a united Korea live on, as you absorb the complex realities of the peninsula.
- Explore the tense border between North and South Korea on a half-day guided tour of the DMZ by PLK Travel, complete with convenient round-trip transfers.
- Witness history at Imjingak Park with the poignant Mangbaedan Altar, cross the Bridge of Freedom, and spot a steam locomotive with an English-speaking guide.
- Venture 73m underground into the 3rd Invasion Tunnel, a secret passage built by North Korea, and peek into the hermit kingdom from the Dora Observatory.
- Visit Unification Village, a small farming community where the hopes for a united Korea live on, as you absorb the complex realities of the peninsula.
Inclusions
- Half-day tour of DMZ
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Round-trip transfers from Seoul
- Entry to all the attractions
- Rough itinerary of the experience
- Pick-up from Seoul
- Imjingak Park
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- Dora Observatory
- Unification Village
- Drop-off at Seoul
- Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes because you will be crawling and walking a lot.
- This tour is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have medical conditions like high blood pressure, seniors, or those with mobility issues.
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Tour DMZ Seoul with an expert guide, starting your day with a boat voyage of the Imjin River. Enjoy round-trip transfers from Seoul in a shared bus.
- Sail the serene Imjin River for 50 minutes, gliding past lush riverbanks and listening to your guide's captivating stories about the Korean War.
- Visit the flower-adorned Mangbaedan Altar, the Bridge of Freedom, and a war-damaged steam locomotive at Imjingak Park, a tribute to the Korean War.
- Scout the dimly lit 'Third Infiltration Tunnel' built by North Korea and spot North Korean landmarks like the Propaganda Village from Dora Observatory.
- Check out rice paddies, and traditional Korean houses, and meet super-friendly locals at the Unification Village, before concluding your day tour.
- Tour DMZ Seoul with an expert guide, starting your day with a boat voyage of the Imjin River. Enjoy round-trip transfers from Seoul in a shared bus.
- Sail the serene Imjin River for 50 minutes, gliding past lush riverbanks and listening to your guide's captivating stories about the Korean War.
- Visit the flower-adorned Mangbaedan Altar, the Bridge of Freedom, and a war-damaged steam locomotive at Imjingak Park, a tribute to the Korean War.
- Scout the dimly lit 'Third Infiltration Tunnel' built by North Korea and spot North Korean landmarks like the Propaganda Village from Dora Observatory.
- Check out rice paddies, and traditional Korean houses, and meet super-friendly locals at the Unification Village, before concluding your day tour.
Inclusions
- Day tour of DMZ Seoul
- 50-min boat ride on the Imjin River
- Admission to Imjin Park and DMZ
- Round-trip transfers from Myeongdong or Hongik Univ Station
- Expert English-speaking guide
- 7am – 7:30am: Departure from Myeongdong or Hongik Univ Station
- 50-min boat ride on Imjin River
- Imjingak Park tour – Mangbaedan Altar, Bridge of Freedom, Steam Locomotive
- Bus transfer to DMZ with ID check by Korean Military
- DMZ tour – 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory to view North Korea & Unification Village
- 4pm – 4:30pm: Return to Hongik Univ or Myeongdong Station
- Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tunnel and village visits.
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- The boat course may change to an alternative suspension bridge route for safety due to uncontrollable issues like weather, maintenance, or other factors.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enhance your DMZ guided tour with a visit to Mt Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and travel in the comfort of an AC vehicle with a guide leading the way.
- Step into history at Imjingak Park, where the scars of the Korean War remain, and witness the poignant Mangbaedan and the rebuilt Bridge of Freedom.
- Venture 52km from Seoul to the eerie 3rd Tunnel, stretching 1,635m long, 2m wide, and 2m high, a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions.
- Peer into the secretive North Korea from Dora Observatory, where, with luck, you might spot locals going about their daily lives across the border.
- Traverse the Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, a site of the heroic Battle of Solma-ri.
- Enhance your DMZ guided tour with a visit to Mt Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and travel in the comfort of an AC vehicle with a guide leading the way.
- Step into history at Imjingak Park, where the scars of the Korean War remain, and witness the poignant Mangbaedan and the rebuilt Bridge of Freedom.
- Venture 52km from Seoul to the eerie 3rd Tunnel, stretching 1,635m long, 2m wide, and 2m high, a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions.
- Peer into the secretive North Korea from Dora Observatory, where, with luck, you might spot locals going about their daily lives across the border.
- Traverse the Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, a site of the heroic Battle of Solma-ri.
Inclusions
- Full-day guided tour of DMZ
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Round-trip AC transfers
- Entry to all attractions
- 40-min walking tour at 3rd Tunnel
- Visit Mt Gamaksan Suspension Bridge
Rough itinerary of the experience
- Pick-up from Seoul
- Imjingak Park
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- Lunch time
- Dora Observatory
- Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge
- Drop-off at Seoul
- Tip: Look for traditional Korean items like fans, pottery, or artwork that showcase the country's rich cultural heritage.
- This tour is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have medical conditions like high blood pressure, seniors, or those with mobility issues.
- Choose safety and comfort: Entering the Third Tunnel is not ideal for pregnant people, those with certain medical conditions (high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.), and seniors.
- Have your passport ready for a seamless experience. Ensure your passport is within at least 6 months of validity.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Navigate the world's most fortified border as you embark on a journey through the DMZ full-day tours.
- From the Third Tunnel of Aggression to the vantage points of Dora and Ganghwa Peace Observatories, these tours pull back the veil on Korea's divided past.
- Your ticket includes return transfers, entrance to all sites covered, and the expertise of an English, Korean, or Chinese-speaking guide.
- Choose from Paju, Gimpo, or Cheorwon DMZ tour tickets, each crafting a unique narrative of the Korean DMZ.
- Navigate the world's most fortified border as you embark on a journey through the DMZ full-day tours.
- From the Third Tunnel of Aggression to the vantage points of Dora and Ganghwa Peace Observatories, these tours pull back the veil on Korea's divided past.
- Your ticket includes return transfers, entrance to all sites covered, and the expertise of an English, Korean, or Chinese-speaking guide.
- Choose from Paju, Gimpo, or Cheorwon DMZ tour tickets, each crafting a unique narrative of the Korean DMZ.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Korean DMZ
- Tour of Paju/Gimpo/Cheorwon DMZ
- Round-trip transfers
- Chinese/English-speaking guide
- Entry to attractions covered
- Tip: If you're on the Gimpo tour during Lunar New Year, you might get to participate in the traditional "Yeot Pulling" for health and fortune,
- Please note that you must inform the operator beforehand if you will be bringing a stroller or wheelchair, otherwise, no space will be provided
- This experience is stroller and wheelchair-accessible
- You can cancel these tickets up to 36 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Delve into Korean history with an 8-hour guided DMZ tour, accessing unique historic sights.
- Explore Imjingak Park with your expert guide, and look out for Freedom Bridge – a ruin of the Korean War.
- Gain views of North Korea from the Dora Observatory including the artificial settlement – Propaganda Village.
- Choose to upgrade your experience with hotel transfers, get an interview with a North Korean defector, or tour Gyeongbok Palace.
- Delve into Korean history with an 8-hour guided DMZ tour, accessing unique historic sights.
- Explore Imjingak Park with your expert guide, and look out for Freedom Bridge – a ruin of the Korean War.
- Gain views of North Korea from the Dora Observatory including the artificial settlement – Propaganda Village.
- Choose to upgrade your experience with hotel transfers, get an interview with a North Korean defector, or tour Gyeongbok Palace.
Inclusions
- 8-hour guided tour
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip transportation
- Round-trip hotel transfers (optional)
- Interview with North Korean defector (optional)
- Tour of Gyeongbok Palace (optional)
- Tip: At Imjingak Park, look out for the messages and wishes for reunification left by visitors from around the world.
- Bring along your passport.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: tripod, and flash photography.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Dig history and geopolitics? Learn about tense Korean history on this DMZ private tour with a multilingual guide and round-trip hotel transfers from Seoul.
- With a small group of 6 people, go on an interactive walk inside the "Third Infiltration Tunnel" dug by North Korea to infiltrate the South.
- A Chinese, English, and Japanese-speaking private guide will take you to the Freedom Bridge, which the South Koreans crossed to come back home.
- Journey by comfortable bus to Imjingak Peace Park, featuring statues, monuments, and a decapitated steam engine from the war times.
- Take a gander at a North Korean ‘truce’ village sitting right in the middle of DMZ, through the powerful binoculars at the Dorasan Observatory.
Need to know
- Tip: Explore Dorasan Station, a train station in the DMZ built in the hope of future Korean reunification.
- Choose safety and comfort: Entering the Third Tunnel is not the best fit for pregnant people, those with certain medical conditions (high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.), and seniors.
- Ensure to limit your luggage to 3 standard-sized pieces.
- Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 6 people.
- Driver reserves the right to refuse large groups or luggage exceeding van capacity (no refunds will be issued in such cases).
- The van can accommodate a maximum of 6 people excluding the driver. Infants and children will also be included in the passenger headcount.
- Dig history and geopolitics? Learn about tense Korean history on this DMZ private tour with a multilingual guide and round-trip hotel transfers from Seoul.
- With a small group of 6 people, go on an interactive walk inside the "Third Infiltration Tunnel" dug by North Korea to infiltrate the South.
- A Chinese, English, and Japanese-speaking private guide will take you to the Freedom Bridge, which the South Koreans crossed to come back home.
- Journey by comfortable bus to Imjingak Peace Park, featuring statues, monuments, and a decapitated steam engine from the war times.
- Take a gander at a North Korean ‘truce’ village sitting right in the middle of DMZ, through the powerful binoculars at the Dorasan Observatory.
Need to know
- Tip: Explore Dorasan Station, a train station in the DMZ built in the hope of future Korean reunification.
- Choose safety and comfort: Entering the Third Tunnel is not the best fit for pregnant people, those with certain medical conditions (high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.), and seniors.
- Ensure to limit your luggage to 3 standard-sized pieces.
- Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 6 people.
- Driver reserves the right to refuse large groups or luggage exceeding van capacity (no refunds will be issued in such cases).
- The van can accommodate a maximum of 6 people excluding the driver. Infants and children will also be included in the passenger headcount.
Inclusions
- 6-hour private tour of DMZ
- Chinese, English, and Japanese-speaking guide
- Small group tour for up to 6 people
- Round-trip hotel transfers from Seoul
- Entry to Demilitarized Zone(DMZ)
- Insurance
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- This Seoul DMZ day tour has it all: an expert guide, round-trip AC transfers, and a deep dive into Korea's past and present military situations.
- Imjingak Park, with the war-weathered 'Iron Horse Train' and 'Mangbaedan Altar' where refugees bow to their ancestors is your first stop.
- Visit the 'Bridge of Freedom' next, built to liberate prisoners in 1953, followed by a walk through the 1635m long, dim 'Third Infiltration Tunnel'.
- Dive deeper into DMZ's history at DMZ Theatre and Exhibition Hall, as you watch a video and browse through Korean War artifacts.
- The Dora Observatory offers strategic views of Kijong-dong's propaganda village, and Gaesong, bringing the distant North Korean landscape into sharp focus.
- This Seoul DMZ day tour has it all: an expert guide, round-trip AC transfers, and a deep dive into Korea's past and present military situations.
- Imjingak Park, with the war-weathered 'Iron Horse Train' and 'Mangbaedan Altar' where refugees bow to their ancestors is your first stop.
- Visit the 'Bridge of Freedom' next, built to liberate prisoners in 1953, followed by a walk through the 1635m long, dim 'Third Infiltration Tunnel'.
- Dive deeper into DMZ's history at DMZ Theatre and Exhibition Hall, as you watch a video and browse through Korean War artifacts.
- The Dora Observatory offers strategic views of Kijong-dong's propaganda village, and Gaesong, bringing the distant North Korean landscape into sharp focus.
Inclusions
- Half-day guided tour of DMZ
- Admission to all attractions
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Pick-up from hotel in Seoul
- Drop-off at the City Hall Area
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Pickup from hotel (Seoul)
- Imjingak Park
- Bridge of Freedom
- 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- DMZ Theater & Exhibition Hall
- Dora Observatory
- Pass by the Unification Village
- Drop off at the City Hall area
- Tip: Try DMZ-themed cuisine when you're there. Some restaurants in the area offer specialties like "unification rice" or "North Korean-style cold noodles".
- You must have your valid passport with you to enter DMZ.
- The DMZ is a military area and hence it can close without prior notice.
- DMZ is closed on Mondays and military training days.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Your sneak peek into DMZ Tours from Seoul: A visual guide
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Your DMZ Tours from Seoul options explained
Half-Day Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour
Tour type: Half-day guided tour
Duration: 6 hours to 7.5 hours
Transfers included: Yes (hotel-pick up available [optional], common pick up & drop-off points available too)
- Enjoy round-trip transfers and in-depth commentary from a local guide on this half-day DMZ tour.
- See the DMZ, 3rd Tunnel, Freedom Bridge, and Dorasan Station - symbols of history, division, and hope.
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From Seoul: Korean Demilitarized Zone & Suspension Bridge Full Day Trip
Tour type: Full-day guided tour (shared)
Duration: 9 hours
Transfers included: Yes (from a common pick up & drop-off point)
- Go on a comprehensive 9-hour DMZ Tour from Seoul complete with round-trip AC coach transfers and an English-speaking guide.
- Explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel, walk the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and delve deeper into DMZ history.
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Korean Demilitarized Zone Private Guided Tour
Tour type: Private guided tour
Duration: 6 hours
Tour languages: Chinese, English, and Japanese-speaking guides available
Transfers included: Yes (hotel pick-up & drop-off point)
- Enjoy a private 6-hour DMZ tour with a multi-lingual guide (Chinese, English, or Japanese) for a truly personalized and insightful experience.
- Tour the DMZ in a small group (up to 6 people) ) and gain exclusive access to rarely-seen sights like deserted North Korean "truce villages" along with the rest of the DMZ.
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Top things to see on your DMZ tour from Seoul
Imjingak Park
Established in 1953, Imjingak Park is a memorial park dedicated to the war's human cost. See the severed rails of the Gyeongui Line railroad and heartbreaking statues like the "Statue of Families Torn Apart," depicting the lasting impact of the war on Korean families.
Third Infiltration Tunnel
Unearthed in 1978, the Third Infiltration Tunnel is a North Korean secret passage, stretching over 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles) underground. It was discovered by South Korea and is believed to have been intended for a surprise attack.
Dorasan Station
Completed in 2002 in anticipation of Korean reunification, Dorasan Station stands as a symbolic train station frozen in time. This northernmost railway station in South Korea features ready-to-depart Korail trains, a reminder of the hope for future cross-border travel.
Freedom Bridge
Traverse a historic bridge laden with symbolism. Built after the Korean War armistice in 1953, the Freedom Bridge served as a point of exchange for over 35,000 prisoners of war.
Dorasan Observatory
Peer into life in North Korea. Train your sights through high-powered telescopes at the Dorasan Observatory, offering a rare glimpse into the North Korean countryside from a distance of just 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles). Watch propaganda villages and get a sense of the contrasting landscapes across the border.
Observation Posts
Get a strategic perspective on the DMZ. Ascend observation posts for panoramic views of the heavily fortified border, stretching over 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) wide. Observe the Demilitarized Zone's unique landscape, a testament to the tense history of the region.
DMZ Exhibition Hall
This museum delves into the events leading to the Korean War, the creation of the DMZ in 1953, and the ongoing division of the Korean peninsula. Learn about the armistice agreement, the role of the DMZ, and efforts towards peace.
Plan your DMZ tour from Seoul
Timings
Transfers
Rules & guidelines
Essentials
Facilities
Visitor tips
The DMZ is closed on Mondays.
Tour timings:
- Half-day tours: 6:40am, 8am, and 10am
- Full-day tours: 7am & 8am
- Private tours: 8am
Best time to visit the DMZ in South Korea:
- Time of day: It's handy that tours start early since you get to enjoy cooler weather, especially during the summer months. It also offers the best chance of clear skies for optimal visibility at observation spots.
- Time of the week: Weekdays generally experience less traffic and smaller crowds compared to weekends, especially during peak season.
- Time of year: Spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather but there might be potential unpredictable showers. Autumn (September to November) is the best season with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and fall foliage.
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a sensitive border area with restricted access for individual travelers. Tours with transfers ensure a safe and hassle-free visit allowing you to relax and arrive at the DMZ ready to explore.
Why go for tours with transfers?
- Permits made easy: The DMZ requires special permits for access. We handle all the permit logistics, allowing you to focus on the historical significance of the region.
- Expert guidance: Our tours come with experienced guides who navigate the intricacies of the DMZ, ensuring you see the most impactful sights and gain a deeper understanding of the area.
- Seamless transportation: Choose between comfortable round-trip transfers from a common pick-up point or upgrade to a private hotel pick-up for added convenience.
- Modern comfort: Travel in style and comfort aboard air-conditioned coaches (shared tours) or spacious vans (private tours) designed for a relaxing journey.
- Mind your gestures: Waving, pointing, signaling, or making any sudden movements towards the North Korean side are strictly prohibited.
- Dress appropriately: Maintain a respectful demeanor by dressing modestly. Ripped pants, shorts, miniskirts, low-cut clothing, or camouflage attire are not allowed.
- Stay with the group: The DMZ is not a place for independent exploration. Remain with your designated guide and military escorts at all times.
- Photography: Photography guidelines may vary depending on the specific location within the DMZ. Always adhere to your guide's instructions regarding permitted areas for photography.
- Be mindful of what you capture: Avoid capturing images of military personnel or any sensitive areas that your guide advises against.
- Weather and unforeseen closures: The DMZ may close unexpectedly due to inclement weather, military exercises, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, your tour operator will provide an alternative itinerary.
- Third Tunnel limitations: Entering the Third Tunnel may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with claustrophobia, certain medical conditions (high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.), and seniors who may find it difficult.
- Luggage restrictions: For private tours, limit your luggage to a maximum of 3 standard-sized pieces.
- Valid Passport - with at least 6 months validity or, Alien Registration Card (ARC) or Military ID
- Modest clothing (long pants, shirts covering shoulders)
- Comfortable shoes with good traction
- Camera
- Sunglasses and hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Cash (small denominations)
Due to the restricted and sensitive nature of the DMZ, there are very few facilities available for visitors.
- Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities might be available at some designated stops along the tour route, but options will be limited at the site.
- Food and Drinks: There are generally no restaurants or food vendors within the DMZ itself. It's advisable to pack snacks and a reusable water bottle for your tour.
- Shopping: Opportunities for shopping within the DMZ are extremely limited. Souvenirs are more likely to be available at nearby shops or visitor centers outside the DMZ.
- Book in advance: The DMZ is a popular destination, especially during peak seasons. Booking your tour well in advance guarantees your spot.
- Choose your tour wisely: Consider your interests and preferences when selecting a tour. Half-day tours provide a good overview, while full-day tours offer a deeper dive into the history and sights.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look: Enhance your experience by bringing a small pair of binoculars to get a better view of the observation posts and potentially spot wildlife in the DMZ.
- Dress modestly: Opt for comfortable walking shoes and dress modestly with long pants and shirts covering your shoulders. Avoid ripped clothing, shorts, miniskirts, or camouflage attire.
- Be mindful of photography restrictions: Photography guidelines may vary depending on the location within the DMZ. Always follow your guide's instructions regarding permitted areas for photography.
- Stay hydrated and pack snacks: While food options within the DMZ are limited, bring a reusable water bottle and pack some light snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the tour.
- Be respectful: Remember, the DMZ is a sensitive area with a complex history. Maintain a respectful demeanor towards the border and its significance.
- Embrace the experience: The DMZ offers a unique opportunity to learn about Korean history and the Korean War. Be present, soak in the historical significance, and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding.
Frequently asked questions about DMZ tours from Seoul
What's the DMZ in South Korea?
The DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone, is a 250-kilometer-long border separating North and South Korea. It's become the most fortified border in the world.
Is the DMZ safe to visit?
Yes, DMZ tours are considered safe. The tours are conducted with permits and guides ensure visitors stay in designated areas.
How much do DMZ tours typically cost?
DMZ tours vary in cost depending on the type of tour (half-day vs full-day vs private) and inclusions. Tours typically begin at ₩65,000.
What is included in the price of a DMZ tour?
Inclusions typically cover transportation (shared pick-up/drop-off points for some tours, hotel pick-up for others), English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to attractions on the itinerary.
Are pick-up and drop-off at my hotel included in the tour price?
It depends on the tour you choose. Some tours offer hotel pick-up for an additional fee, while others have common pick-up/drop-off points.
Can I visit the Third Tunnel on a DMZ tour?
Yes, visiting the Third Tunnel is a common inclusion on many DMZ tours. However, keep in mind entering the tunnel might not be suitable for everyone due to its small size.
Is it possible to see the Joint Security Area (JSA) on a DMZ tour?
Unfortunately, JSA tours are not included in typical DMZ tours from Seoul.
What kind of identification do I need for a DMZ tour?
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity is preferred. Alternatively, you can present your Alien Registration Card (ARC) or Military ID.
Are there any restrictions on what I can wear on a DMZ tour?
Yes, respectful attire is required. Opt for long pants and shirts covering shoulders. Avoid ripped clothing, shorts, miniskirts, or camouflage attire.
Can I bring my camera on a DMZ tour? Are there any photography restrictions?
Yes, you can bring a camera. However, photography guidelines may vary depending on the specific location within the DMZ. Always follow your guide's instructions.
What time of year is best to visit the DMZ?
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal. Spring offers pleasant weather, but there might be occasional showers. Autumn boasts comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful fall foliage.
Are there half-day and full-day DMZ tours available?
Yes, both half-day and full-day tours are available. Half-day tours provide a good overview, while full-day tours offer a deeper dive into the history and sights.
Are DMZ tours suitable for children?
While not strictly age-restricted, it's important to consider the maturity level of your child. The historical themes can be heavy, and some locations require following instructions and staying with the group.
What is included in a typical DMZ tour?
Common inclusions are visits to the Third Tunnel, Dorasan Station, Freedom Bridge, Imjingak Park, DMZ Exhibition Hall, and observation posts. You'll also have a guide to narrate the history and significance of the sites. Don’t worry about logistics, since tours typically come with AC coaches/vans and offer round trip transfers from Seoul.
Are there any physical limitations for participating in a DMZ tour (e.g., walking difficulty)?
Some walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Entering the Third Tunnel might be difficult for those with claustrophobia, those who are pregant or have certain health conditions.
What happens if the DMZ is closed on the day of my tour?
The DMZ can close unexpectedly due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, your tour operator will provide an alternative itinerary.
Is there any food or water available at the DMZ?
There are very few facilities within the DMZ itself. It's advisable to pack snacks and a reusable water bottle for your tour. You can find restaurants and shops outside the DMZ near the starting points of the tours.