The DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, is the heavily fortified strip of land that has divided North and South Korea since 1953, and remains one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world. It is visited only on organised tours from Seoul, which take in observation points looking into the North, an infiltration tunnel dug by the North, and, when accessible, the Joint Security Area at the truce village of Panmunjom.

What to look for

• The observation points - the viewpoints looking across into North Korea.
• The infiltration tunnels - a tunnel dug by the North beneath the border.
• Panmunjom (JSA) - the truce village and its blue negotiation huts, when open.
• The Dora Station and bridge - the poignant symbols of a divided land.

When to go

Year-round; the DMZ is visited only on organised tours, which must be booked in advance and require your passport.

Practical notes

There are dress-code and conduct rules.

Nearby

Seoul is an hour or so south; the border runs across the peninsula.