American soldiers face off against North Korean soldiers in the DMZ
In 1953, the Korean war ended in an stalemate armistice, no side was victorious. The North had failed to complete their objective of conquering the South, the United States had failed in their objective of wiping out North Korea. No formal peace treaty had been agreed, North and South Korea would remain in a semi-state of war.
The result of this was the creation of an intense military border known as "The Korean Demilitarized Zone" (DMZ)- the name is an oxymoron, it is one of the most militarized borders on Earth. On each side, soldiers heavily guard; crossing through is near impossible.
Meet real North Korean soldiers!
As a tourist in North Korea, you have the opportunity to visit this place from the North Korean side. You have the opportunity to visit the adjacent village of panmunjom, where the armistice was negotiated and signed (the copy is still there). Likewise, you have the opportunity to go and meet real North Korean soldiers in the area (who are more friendly than you think). Whilst also you have the opportunity to visit the "Joint Security Area", the closest border area between North and South where talks between the two sides take place.
The Joint Security area, beyond the line of bricks is South Korea
This area is bound to leave a special effect on you. It has been in many ways the last remaining frontier and remenant of the Cold War. Probably one of the most exciting, interesting and thrilling places you can visit whilst in North Korea.
