Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

Defector Talk & DMZ Highlights Tour from Seoul

4.5
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

Defector Talk & DMZ Highlights Tour from Seoul

4.5
Next available dates
Bestseller

Exclusive DMZ Tour with Defector Interview

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
  • Get a complete picture of the DMZ through the eyes of a defector who escaped North Korea on this full-day tour.
  • Explore the Dora Observatory for a view of North Korea, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, and more.

From

MYR 147.66

Highlights

Embark on a powerful and immersive journey into the history and present-day reality of the Korean Peninsula with this exclusive DMZ tour from Seoul. One of the most unique elements of this experience is the opportunity to meet and speak with a North Korean defector. Their firsthand account of life beyond the border provides an intimate and rare glimpse into a world that remains largely hidden from view.


The tour includes visits to some of the DMZ's most significant landmarks. At Dora Observatory, you can peer across the border into North Korea, while Dorasan Station offers a symbolic connection to the hope of future reunification. Explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel, an underground passage built by North Korea, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s tense history at Imjingak Park.


Additionally, the tour takes you to the scenic Gamaksan Chulleong Suspension Bridge, a lesser-known spot that offers breathtaking views and a reflective break from the heavier historical sites.


Throughout the tour, expert guides with backgrounds in national security provide detailed commentary, enriching the experience with insights into the Korean Warinter-Korean relations, and ongoing geopolitical dynamics. This is not just a tour—it’s a profound educational experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most complex and divided regions.

  • All-in-One DMZ Experience: Enjoy a comprehensive tour covering all major DMZ highlights in a single itinerary—ideal for travelers with limited time.
  • Insightful Guided Commentary: Learn about Korean history, military tensions, and reunification efforts through expert narration from a knowledgeable guide.
  • Defector Interaction: The standout feature—meet a North Korean defector and hear their personal stories of escape, life under the regime, and adjusting to the South, offering rare firsthand insights.
  • Meaningful Cultural Exchange: This tour adds emotional depth and human context to the DMZ visit, making it both educational and moving.

Itinerary

  • Seoul

    50 minsAdmission Ticket Free
    Meet your guide at the designated meeting place. Once all guests have arrived, you'll be transferred directly to the DMZ.
  • Imjingak Pyeonghoa-Nuri Park

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    Imjingak, a symbol of Korean reunification desire, is a unique theme park featuring rides alongside barbed wire fences. It houses historical relics like the Freedom Bridge, used by 13,000 POWs for freedom, and a steam locomotive smokestack from the Korean War, abandoned for 55 years.
  • Bridge of Freedom(Pass by)

    Admission Ticket Free
    Mangbaedan Bridge on Imjingang River, crossed by 13,000 POWs in 1953 during the Korean War, symbolizes their "return to freedom."
  • DMZ

    40 minsAdmission Ticket Included
    Korea's DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a military demarcation zone between North and South Korea, where military activities are prohibited. It remains a significant symbol of division on the Korean Peninsula since the Korean War. DMZ Theater The DMZ Theater, often located within or near the DMZ Exhibition Hall in DMZ serves as an immersive storytelling space where visitors can deepen their understanding of the Korean Demilitarized Zone and its significance. The theater offers a mix of educational and emotional experiences through carefully curated audiovisual content. DMZ Exhibition Hall An informative and symbolic space designed to educate visitors about the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a unique buffer zone that separates North and South Korea. This exhibition hall is situated near the DMZ, offering a closer look at the history, conflict, and aspirations for peace on the Korean Peninsula.
  • The Third Tunnel

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Included
    The DMZ tour's highlight includes exploring a North Korean tunnel, possibly for military purposes, with the 3rd tunnel extending 435 meters into South Korea. Visitors can also watch a documentary, view Korean War relics, and learn about the tunnel's discovery.
  • Dora Observatory

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Included
    Dora Observatory provides a close-up view of North Korea, including Gaeseong City and the Gaeseong Industrial Complex. Visitors can also see a fake North Korean border village called "Propaganda Village," where lights are manipulated to create the illusion of activity.
  • Tongilchon-gil

    10 minsAdmission Ticket Free
    Unification Village is located north of the Civilian Control Line. The village is also famous for its agricultural products, such as Jangdan ginseng, Jangdan soybeans
  • Gamaksan Chulleong Bridge

    1 hoursAdmission Ticket Free
    [OPTION] The Gamaksan Chulleong Bridge, once Korea's longest suspension bridge at 220 meters, offers stunning views over Silmari Valley. Opened in 2016, it's a popular spot for its scenic beauty and thrilling experience, enhancing the hiking journey to Gamaksan Mountain.
  • Seoul City Hall(Pass by)

    Admission Ticket Free
    You can get off at City Hall Station

What's included

INCLUDED

Interview with North Korean defector
Air-conditioned vehicle
All fees and faxes
Certified English guide

NOT INCLUDED

Travel insurance
Lunch
Hotel drop-off (drop-off at City Hall)

Customer reviews

4.5

95 verified reviews
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
about 2 months ago
Verified Traveller.Solo Traveller

We Didn’t go as only allowed a small amount of buses into DMZ that day- per army request. They said would rebook me for another day as they have my email but haven’t received any contact about it.

Additional information

Important note

Please make sure that all participants bring their passports with them.

Meeting Point & Pick-up Information
  • Meeting Point: President Hotel, 16 Eulji-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
  • End Point: This activity ends back at the meeting point.
  • Tour Duration: Approx. 7 to 8 hours
Good to Know
  • The tour is conducted in English.
  • Includes a special meet-up with a North Korean defector.
  • The Mt. Suspension Bridge tour option requires a minimum number of participants. If the minimum is not met, guests will be informed and the tour will be revised accordingly.
  • The DMZ is a military-controlled zone and is subject to sudden closure without notice. If such closure occurs, an alternative tour will be provided — no refunds will be issued.
  • No changes or refunds will be granted for late arrivals at the departure point, regardless of the reason.
  • This activity allows a maximum of 90 travelers.
Child Policy
  • Adult Ticket: Ages 11–99
  • Child Ticket: Ages 4–10
  • Infant (0–3): Must sit on laps; no separate seat provided.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility
  • Not wheelchair accessible


Not recommended for:

  • Travelers with back problems
  • Those with heart conditions or serious medical issues
  • Participants should have moderate physical fitness
ID Requirements
  • All participants must bring a valid passport.
  • It is a mandatory requirement to access the DMZ area.
Booking Confirmation

Your booking will be confirmed by the provider instantly.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund will be processed if cancelled at least 2 days before your selected activity date. No refunds can be issued if cancelled less than 2 days before your selected activity date.

Voucher Use

Please present your mobile ticket to the guide at the meeting point.

Sign up to enjoy 10% off your first 2 bookings

Location

Provider

Cosmojin Agency

Frequently asked questions

What is the DMZ and why is it significant?
The DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone, is a buffer zone between North and South Korea that was established at the end of the Korean War in 1953. It is significant as it represents the division of the Korean Peninsula and serves as a symbol of the ongoing conflict and the hope for reunification.
Who is the North Korean defector that we will meet during the tour?
The North Korean defector is an individual who has escaped from North Korea and now shares their personal experiences and insights about life in North Korea. This meet-up provides a unique opportunity to hear firsthand accounts and gain a deeper understanding of the realities faced by defectors.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
It is recommended to bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and any personal items you may need for the day. Additionally, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as parts of the tour may involve outdoor activities.
Are there any restrictions on what I can do or say during the tour?
Yes, there are certain restrictions in place to ensure safety and respect for the sensitive nature of the DMZ. Visitors are expected to follow the guidelines provided by the tour guide, which may include restrictions on photography in certain areas and maintaining a respectful demeanor during discussions with the defector.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children, but it is recommended to assess whether the content discussed, particularly during the meet-up with the defector, is appropriate for younger audiences. Parents should use their discretion based on their child's maturity and understanding of the subject matter.
Have another question?

Earn or redeem miles on your bookings

Best price guaranteed
From

MYR 147.66

or use 4,604 KrisFlyer miles
Why Pelago?
  • Trusted by millions of travellers
  • Best price guarantee promise
  • Choose from 200,000+ activities
  • Earn KrisFlyer miles with every booking
  • A Singapore Airlines company
Get 10% off on the app with promo code APP10
Scan to download

Why book with Pelago?

Best price guaranteed
See it cheaper elsewhere? Let us know and we'll refund the difference.
Earn KrisFlyer rewards
Earn miles for every booking and use miles to redeem your purchases.
Service that soars
Verified reviews, secure payments, and high-quality standards. A Singapore Airlines company.
Connect to culture
Discover top-rated activities – from tours to hidden gems and everything in between.