The Demilitarized Zone (Known as the DMZ) is widely considered a must in the bucket list of anyone visiting South Korea. As more people arrive each year, planners are usually faced with several questions. Here are the Top Five Answers to the most commonly asked questions:
- Is it safe to visit the DMZ? Absolutely, yes. While the DMZ in Korea is considered by some “the world’s most dangerous border,” there is no threat to any civilians or visitors. Tourists entering the DMZ go through a routine briefing that covers the do’s and don’ts of the visit. Although a safety waiver is required to visit the JSA (joint security area), where the North Korean and South Korean forces stand facing each other, the briefing will cover everything you need to know to better enjoy the experience.
- Are there any steps that I need to take before the visit? All you have to do is book your visit! It’s that simple. You can even do it from your couch. After you book, a DMZ travel operator will get in touch with you to cover all the details of your visit.
- What should my delegates be aware of before the visit? You cannot be part of this experience if you don’t bring your passport. Also, out of respect for the local culture, the dress code should be at least smart business casual. What does this mean? Absolutely no torn jeans, no shorts, and no open-toe footwear. Dress as if you were attending a business networking event. There will be several checkpoints along the way where military people board the bus; this is normal protocol.
- What’s the ideal budget for this experience? The Price points start around CAD 175.00 per person. The costs may vary on each day of the week, time of the year, exclusive bus/coach requirement, pick-up points, meal(s) needed kind of meal required, and so on. For an incentive group, we recommend budgeting CAD 500.00 per person in order to offer a more elaborate meal. Prices change and we recommend connecting with the tour organizers before submitting the final budget for approval.
- Are there any other unique experiences in the DMZ? Visiting the DMZ is a unique experience by itself. And yes, there’s a chance you get to capture everything that’s unique about this area, including an interview with the North Korean Defector. This interview is conducted in Korean with a translator and a guide. Delegates and attendees can come up-close and hear first-hand for as little as CAD 150 per person for this tour.
You might wish to check out a sample waiver form as you plan the visit to the DMZ.
