Private DMZ Tour with a Veteran Who Served There

Located near the DMZ in Paju, Imjingak Peace Nuri Park stands as a symbol of Korea’s hope for reunification. This expansive riverside park features landmarks such as the Freedom Bridge, remnants of the Korean War, and art installations created from barbed wire and peace messages. Visitors can wander across wide green fields dotted with wind-powered sculptures while reflecting on Korea’s divided history and its aspirations for lasting peace.

Situated on Mount Dora, the Dora Observatory offers a rare opportunity to look across the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) into North Korea. From its viewing platform, visitors can see Kaesong City, North Korean propaganda villages, and the surrounding landscape through high-powered binoculars. It is one of the closest places where civilians can safely observe North Korea, providing a powerful perspective on the peninsula’s division.

Discovered in 1978, the Third Infiltration Tunnel is a vivid reminder of Cold War tensions. Secretly dug by North Korea, the tunnel stretches more than 1.6 kilometers toward Seoul and could have allowed thousands of soldiers to pass through within an hour. Visitors can walk a portion of the tunnel wearing safety helmets and learn about its discovery at the DMZ Exhibition Hall, which highlights ongoing efforts toward peace and security.

Tongilchon, or Unification Village, is a small farming community located just south of the DMZ. Established to promote peace and coexistence, it is known for its clean air, organic crops, and unique position within the Civilian Control Zone. Visitors can sample local specialties such as soybean products and ginseng, shop for regional goods, and experience everyday life near the border.

Odusan Unification Tower offers one of the most unique and accessible vantage points for viewing North Korea across the Han River. From the observatory, visitors can clearly see North Korean villages, fields, and daily life unfolding just beyond the border. Inside the tower, exhibits explore the history and development of Korea’s division, the human stories behind the separation, and the nation’s enduring hopes for peaceful reunification. As you walk through the halls and take in the sweeping riverside views, the site provides a thoughtful and meaningful space to reflect on the past, present, and future of the Korean Peninsula.