I feel bad for the soldiers who literally have to stand in that room for hours while tourists stare at them…what a boring life. But still, brilliant post! I enjoyed reading it. I didn’t know that tourists were no longer let into North Korea, but then again I’m not surprised.
We talked with one of the US soldiers and he said it was a miserably boring place to be stationed.
Tourism is allowed in North Korea in a limited capacity. From what I understand, you have to go through China with a guide and a North Korea minder who supervises you. Right now, however, US citizens can’t go there at all.
I did this tour about eight years ago and it was definitely one of the more memorable travel experiences of my life! the soldier in the conference room looks pretty chill though — do they still have to stand in the martial arts stance the whole time, ready to strike any tourist who breaks the rules?
Had no idea what to expect on a tour like this. Didn’t know you have to sign paperwork and everything. I find it interesting that photos are allowed but you have to leave other belongings on the bus. Did the place felt hostile? Did you feel free to walk around and take photos?
It didn’t feel hostile, per se, but you aren’t free to walk around for photos. They keep you in a small group under military supervision the whole time and instruct you when it’s ok to take photos. Very interesting experience!
I used to live in Japan, so I had quite a few friends who did a similar (or maybe it was the same) tour as you… I find the whole thing both simultaneously interesting and depressing.
It is an experience you’ll be able to tell your grandchildren about though! Goodness… I hope the world is a little more sorted and safer by then!
This kind of trip helps to learn a lot about the past history, at the same time not so welcoming for all. This destination seems to me interesting to explore but don’t know how much comfort I’ll really feel with heavy military presence. However, worth to take something different experiences.
It definitely is not a “comfortable” tourist experience (and it really feels weird to think that they have tourists here at all), but the officers on the South Korean side were really nice and friendly to us, and our military guide shared a lot of stories and had a good sense of humor š
I wish I would have visited DMZ while I was in S. Korea. Although my husband went there I had to skip it. I am sure it must have been quite an interesting experience, especially with all that is going on politically having to see N. Korea even from far is something.
Our 21st Century Odyssey 
I feel bad for the soldiers who literally have to stand in that room for hours while tourists stare at them…what a boring life. But still, brilliant post! I enjoyed reading it. I didn’t know that tourists were no longer let into North Korea, but then again I’m not surprised.
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Thanks for reading!
We talked with one of the US soldiers and he said it was a miserably boring place to be stationed.
Tourism is allowed in North Korea in a limited capacity. From what I understand, you have to go through China with a guide and a North Korea minder who supervises you. Right now, however, US citizens can’t go there at all.
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Very interesting! Thanks for the extra info!
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I did this tour about eight years ago and it was definitely one of the more memorable travel experiences of my life! the soldier in the conference room looks pretty chill though — do they still have to stand in the martial arts stance the whole time, ready to strike any tourist who breaks the rules?
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Yes! They totally do!
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Okay, I love the idea of a DMZ amusement park! If you ask nicely, will they let you go on any of the rides?
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haha I’m not sure! Apparently it’s a popular vacation destination in the summer for Koreans š
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Wow, this was super interesting! I don’t know if I could do it myself, but it must’ve been a really cool experience!
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It really was!
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Had no idea what to expect on a tour like this. Didn’t know you have to sign paperwork and everything. I find it interesting that photos are allowed but you have to leave other belongings on the bus. Did the place felt hostile? Did you feel free to walk around and take photos?
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It didn’t feel hostile, per se, but you aren’t free to walk around for photos. They keep you in a small group under military supervision the whole time and instruct you when it’s ok to take photos. Very interesting experience!
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I used to live in Japan, so I had quite a few friends who did a similar (or maybe it was the same) tour as you… I find the whole thing both simultaneously interesting and depressing.
It is an experience you’ll be able to tell your grandchildren about though! Goodness… I hope the world is a little more sorted and safer by then!
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Same!! It was very sad hearing the stories of families who were torn apart at this spot to never see each other again š¦
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This kind of trip helps to learn a lot about the past history, at the same time not so welcoming for all. This destination seems to me interesting to explore but don’t know how much comfort I’ll really feel with heavy military presence. However, worth to take something different experiences.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It definitely is not a “comfortable” tourist experience (and it really feels weird to think that they have tourists here at all), but the officers on the South Korean side were really nice and friendly to us, and our military guide shared a lot of stories and had a good sense of humor š
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Seems like a bit of tense experience, but definitely a different type of tourist experience and worth doing.
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Definitely tense, and definitely worthwhile
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Very interesting post! I don’t see many posts on the Koreas! Super educational.
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Thank you for reading!
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I wish I would have visited DMZ while I was in S. Korea. Although my husband went there I had to skip it. I am sure it must have been quite an interesting experience, especially with all that is going on politically having to see N. Korea even from far is something.
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It terms of uniqueness and educational value, it was a highlight of our time in South Korea!
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What a crazy experience! This is definitely on my list because its such an interesting relationship to be able to see.
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It was kind of surreal!! I definitely recommend it!
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