The back story

The DMZ: visiting the border area from Seoul

In depth·Paju

Official tours to the border area north of Seoul: what to bring, how to book and what to expect.

The Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) runs across the peninsula north of Seoul. Parts of the border area in Paju can be visited, some only on official or registered tours, which need a passport and are subject to cancellation at short notice. The government’s DMZ portal (dmz.go.kr) lists the programmes; GOV.UK advises visitors to follow the advice of the local authorities in the area.

Booking

Book through the official DMZ portal (dmz.go.kr) or a registered operator; programmes can close at short notice.

On the day

Carry your passport, follow every instruction from the guides and soldiers, and photograph only where you are told you may.

Bring your passport, and book only through official or registered operators.

Our advice: treat it as a serious place; it is not a theme park.

Why it's on our list

  • Booking
  • On the day

Location

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