DMZ(Demilitarized Zone)+Gamaksan Suspension Bridge-Korea
Korea is the world's only divided nation, split into South and North Korea by DMZ resulting from the Korean War(1950~1953) which inflicted millions of casualties including 10 million separated family members.
By joining the tour, you can catch a glimpse of the much talked about border and the stark reality of the divided country. It also offers insights into the history of division, the heartrending tales of separated families, and a chance to contemplate war, peace and the value of freedom.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel (Seoul)
Imjingak Nuri Peace Park
Imjingak Nuri Peace Park was developed immediately after the South North Korea’s Joint Statement was declared in 1972. This is a complex cultural space where the global peace festival was held in 2005. It is composed of various cultural facilities such as large scale outdoor theater, the hill of the music and the hill of the wind where about 3,000 pinwheels spin. This is the place to take the shuttle bus in front of the ticket office.
The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
The 3rd Tunnel was discovered at the point of just 52km(32miles) away from Seoul, in the administrative district of Paju in 1978. The tunnel is underground with 73m(240 feet) in depth, 1,635m in length(1mile), 2m in width, 2m(6.6 feet) in height. Also it is as large in scale as an army of thirty-thousand fully armed North Korean soldiers to pass through within an hour. It is the largest one among the tunnels that have been discovered so far. We can certainly guess how strong the North Korea plot to invade the South Korea was at that time.
Dorasan Observatory
This site is situated on Dora Mountain within the DMZ, serving as the northernmost observatory in the South, providing an up-close view of North Korea. Directly ahead, you can observe a nearby North Korean guard post, a propaganda village, and North Korean farmland. Additionally, you can glimpse the urban area of Gaeseong, the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, a GPS jamming tower aimed at disrupting electronic signals and preventing North Korean citizens from accessing South Korean broadcasts. In the distance, the Joint Security Area (JSA) is also visible.
Another intriguing aspect is that on a clear day with good luck, you can observe North Korean people working in the fields, walking along the roads, or riding bicycles through the telescope on the observatory rooftop. You might also catch sight of passing vehicles like cars and tractors from time to time.
Unification Village(Tongilchon)
Tongilchon, also known as Unification Village, is located within the boundaries of the Civilian Control Line. It was founded in 1973, initially comprising 40 households of veterans and 40 native households. Inspired by the kibbutz model in Israel, the village was strategically designed. While residents go about their regular work on ordinary days, they are trained in military procedures to respond to emergency situations.
The region is renowned for its local specialties: Jangdan soybeans, ginseng, and rice. These products are displayed at the agricultural marketing center located at the entrance of the village and are available for sale to visitors.
Imjingak Nuri Peace Park and Lunch
Here, you can visit Mangbaedan, where dispersed family members who were born in North Korea or have their hometowns there, come every Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) or Lunar New Year's Day. There's also the "Freedom Bridge," where South Korean and UN prisoners of war were repatriated at the end of the Korean War. You will also see a steam locomotive that was severely damaged by the enemy's attack in the time of the Korean War, as well as bridges and other historical remnants from that era.
And then, you will have lunch at a restaurant nearby.
Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, or War Memorial
Gamaksan Mountain (675m) is one of the five rocky mountains in Gyeonggi Province. A suspension bridge was constructed over a deep valley, spanning 150m (0.1 mile) in length and standing 45m (144ft) high, all without the need for bridge piers. This design allows the bridge to blend harmoniously with the surrounding nature. This bridge also bears the additional name of "Gloucester Heroes Bridge," paying tribute to the courageous efforts of the soldiers from the Gloucestershire Battalion Regiment during the Korean War.
Alternatively, you can also have the option to visit the War Memorial where you can get to know about the Korean War in much more detail, instead of going to the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, or to visit any other places you desire.
End of the tour
Ending Point
At your hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guiding Fee
Free Transportation (11 seater KIA Carnival)
Fuel, toll, parking
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
Entrance Fees
Lunch
Traveler's Insurance
Tour Important Information
1. During the DMZ tour, you must have your passport with you.
2. The DMZ tour involves entering a military-controlled area, so it proceeds by taking the DMZ shuttle bus in groups.
3. DMZ tours cannot be reserved in advance and are done on a first-come, first-served basis by purchasing tickets for the DMZ shuttle bus.
4. The schedule provided above is based on the first DMZ shuttle bus, so the timings might vary depending on the departure time.
5. Following the DMZ tour, you can choose to visit either the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge or the War Memorial Hall. Alternatively, you can also visit any other places you desire.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Kevin L.
I received a license in 2016 from the Korea Tourism Organization as a qualified professional tour guide. I have guided a variety of tours for people and tourists from all over the world and have been doing so for over 9 years.
Before being a tour guide I spent most of my career working in the banking industry for almost 30 years, starting with Korea First Bank which later became a US based Newbridge Capital and UK based Standard Chartered Bank until I retired in 2016.
My experience in the banking industry was very much customer-first and dealing with the public which laid the cornerstone and passion to becoming a tour guide.
After retiring from the bank, I worked as a lecturer for a volunteering organization run by the local public office and taught students about the environment and disabilities.
With various experiences and personal management skills, these challenges have provided a real life, hands on cultural nuances which will promote friendship and expand life experiences between different cultures.
I'm based in Seoul but will be happily arrange the tours to Busan, Gyeongju, Sokcho, Jeonju etc. as a customized tour. Feel free to drop me a request message.
Reviews
Jbasra S.
“Seoul with Kevin”
My family of 5 adults and 2 kids had a wonderful day with Kevin in Korea. He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating, and he made it easy for us to make changes to our plans along the way. He did a great job making sure everyone in our group had an enjoyable experience. I would definitely use Kevin’s services again and highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great tour guide in Korea!
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Kevin L.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and kind words! It was truly a pleasure spending the day with your family. I'm glad everyone enjoyed the tour, and I really appreciate your flexibility and enthusiasm throughout the day. Thank you again for your trust and recommendation. I hope to have the pleasure of showing you more of Korea on your next visit! Many thanks, Kevin Lee
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Mireille D.
“Great experience with knowlegde Kevin”
Today we went on a private tour with our kind guide Kevin to the DMZ. He showed us all the highlights with a lot of background about the general history of Korea and especially the korean war. He is very open and passionate about his country. We would certainly recommend a tour with him!
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Kevin L.
Thank you so much for your kind review! It was a pleasure showing you around the DMZ and sharing Korea’s history with you. I truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation! Many thanks, Kevin Lee
Rafael M.
“Nice afternoon in Yeouido”
Kevin has very in-depth knowledge of the history of South Korea and how each historical event shaped the development of the country. I had the opportunity to visit Yeouido, which I hadn't yet, and Kevin walked me through the National Assembly, the financial district and the Han River through the Yeouido side, and shared his experiences of how he saw the radical transformations that part of time went through it while he worked around there. Super interesting time!
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Kevin L.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. It was a real pleasure spending time with you and showing you around some of Seoul’s major historical sites as well as Yeouido. I’m especially glad that you enjoyed hearing not only about Korea’s history and how historical events shaped the country, but also about how Seoul has changed over the years. Having witnessed some of those changes firsthand, it was meaningful for me to share those stories and experiences with you. I’m very glad you enjoyed the tour, and I truly appreciate your kind words. Many thanks, Kevin Lee
$360/ per group
More tours by Kevin L.
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Seoul City Tour-Korea
Seoul has been the capital for more than 600 years from the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty in the late 14th century to the present. Divided by the Han River, Seoul is adorned with many historical treasures such as royal palaces, fortress walls, traditional village, traditional markets, and modern architectural marvels like Lotte World Tower, Trade Tower. Seoul truly embodies the charm of coexisting past and present. It also serves as the birthplace of K-POP and Korean wave(Hallyu).
Seoul City Tour-Korea
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Nami Island+Rail Bike+Garden of Morning Calm(Greater Seoul)
If driving out of Seoul for about 1~2 hours, you'll arrive at Nami Island, which resembles a floating leaf on a lake. Renowned as the filming location for "Winter Sonata," it's a place where people, animals, and trees share peace and love. The Rail Bike offers another delightful experience, allowing you to create lasting memories amidst this natural beauty. Garden of Morning Calm, nestled on the lush slopes of the mountain, offers a wonderful setting for a leisurly stroll in harmony with nature.
Nami Island+Rail Bike+Garden of Morning Calm(Greater Seoul)
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Korean Tradition and Modern Life: Folk Village, Fortress, Starfield Library & Local Food Culture
Firstly, explore Korea's cultural richness at the Korean Folk Village! Immerse yourself in traditional life, ancient customs, vibrant performances, and authentic architecture. Secondly, step into history at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress! A UNESCO Heritage site, it's a marvel of Korean architecture. Thirdly, experience modern Korea at the Suwon Starfield Library, an impressive space blending contemporary design. Lastly, conclude the day at Suwon Chicken Street, the birthplace of Korea’s fried chicken.
Korean Tradition and Modern Life: Folk Village, Fortress, Starfield Library & Local Food Culture
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Marvel of Nature: Hiking in Bukhansan Mountain National Park
Another charm of Seoul is it is surrounded by beautiful mountains, providing excellent accessibility for hiking. Among them, Bukhansan mountain is one of the most favorite destination for Seoulites seeking hiking and trekking adventures. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to experience Buddhist temples along the trail. Lastly, enjoying pajeon(green onion pancake) and makgeolli(Rice wine) as a post-hiking tradition among Koreans helps alleviate the fatigue from the mountain excursion.
Marvel of Nature: Hiking in Bukhansan Mountain National Park
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Seoul
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Private DMZ tour + Korean Street Food Experience at Mangwon market
Explore the historic DMZ, where North and South Korea meet, and learn about the peninsula’s divided past. After the tour, dive into local life at Mangwon Market, tasting authentic Korean street foods like tteokbokki, hotteok, and crispy fried snacks. A perfect mix of history, culture, and delicious flavors.
Private DMZ tour + Korean Street Food Experience at Mangwon market
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Fun day on Nami Island by Private Van (1-7 Pax)
Nami Island is a must-visit location for fans of the drama "Winter Sonata" when traveling to Korea. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Korea, attracting 3.3 million visitors annually, including 1.3 million foreign tourists from 122 countries around the world.
Fun day on Nami Island by Private Van (1-7 Pax)
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Airport Service: Seamless Transfers, Just for You! (Minivan 1-5 PAX)
From Incheon Airport to your Seoul accommodation, or from Seoul to Incheon Airport, we’re here to provide a warm and comfortable transfer. Embracing the spirit of Korean hospitality, our service lets you relax and enjoy your journey from the moment you arrive. With experienced, friendly drivers, we ensure a safe and smooth ride, so you can start your Seoul experience refreshed or end it with ease. Let us make your time in Korea unforgettable, right down to the last moment.
Airport Service: Seamless Transfers, Just for You! (Minivan 1-5 PAX)
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DMZ tour and Suspension Bridge
Take a full-day tour from Seoul that includes a trip to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) in the morning, and return to Seoul in the afternoon. Highlights of the DMZ include Imjingak Park, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, DMZ Exhibition Hall, Dora Observatory and Unification Village. Return to Imjingak Park, then visit Gloucester Hill Memorial and the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge before your tour ends.
DMZ tour and Suspension Bridge
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