DMZ Primeval Forest Tour (Yanggu-gun, Gangwon-do Province)

Highlights

• One-day private tour from Seoul to Yanggu
• Learn about the Korean War and the peninsula’s current situation at the 4th Infiltration Tunnel and the Eulji Observatory
• Explore the rich ecosystem of the Dutayeon Valley and its waterfalls
• Visit the gallery dedicated to the goodwill ambassador of Gangwon-do, the popular Korean actor So Ji Sub
• Do not miss the impressive view of the Peace Dam, evidence of the still uncertain relationship between North and South

Minimum travelers 2     Duration 1 Day

Overview

Have you ever visited the most famous Korean Demilitarized Zone? Most people want to visit the Paju Korea Demilitarized Zone and Joint Security Area (Panmunjeom) when they think about the border of South and North Korea. However, there is a non-touristy Demilitarized Zone in Yanggu-gun. Visitors might join this tour to explore more about the Korean War and the tumultuous history of the once-unified country with an expert guide.

Description

The 4th Underground Tunnel is the last underground passage dug by North Koreans to be discovered near the DMZ in 1990. The tunnel is 145 meters deep below the ground and intrudes about 1km south of the Military Demarcation Line.  Before entering the passage, visitors must pass by the Security Exhibition Hall, which displays a range of war relics and information on the Korean War and the 4^th infiltration tunnel. At the entrance of the tunnel, you will find a statue commemorating the death of a dog that was helping in the discovery of the tunnel. Visitors can visit the tunnel in a more convenient way by riding an electric vehicle.

Located on the ridge of Gachilbong Peak, the Eulji observatory provides a fantastic view of the Haean Basin as well as nearby North Korean mountains such as Stalin Hill or Maebong Peak. The Haean Basin also receives the name of “Punch Bowl”, given during the Korean War because of its particular geographical appearance. The Basin was an important strategic location during the war, becoming an iconic battle scene. At the observatory, you can listen to an explanation about the surrounding landscape and the northern part of the border, and you might even catch a glimpse of North Korean soldiers on guard or workers working at a nearby farm.

The Dutayeon eco-tourism course consists of an unspoiled natural environment in which access was restricted to civilians for about 50 years! Opened in 2004, it truly shows the richness of the DMZ ecosystem with breathtaking primeval sceneries and Lenok fish. From the suspension bridge, visitors can admire the clear waters of the Dutayeon falls and the Suip stream, as well as a cave on the east wall. After the pond, visitors will find an experience zone dedicated to the dangers of landmines and claymores, as well as a pavilion overlooking the waterfalls.

Optional tour – So Ji Sub Road: 51k Dutayeon Gallery

The famous Korean actor So Ji Sub was designated as the goodwill ambassador of Gangwon-do, and a road in the province has been named after him! At the beginning of the So Ji Sub road is the 51k Gallery. This gallery is a place dedicated to the actor and displays previously unrevealed pictures as well as outfits from his recent works.