No. 1 in Korea
Frequently Asked Questions about the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Korea
Preparing to visit the DMZ in Korea? Here, we have compiled some of the most common questions we hear daily from our guests.
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Answers to FAQs about visiting the Korean DMZ
Is a passport required?
Yes! It is important that you bring your passport with you on the tour date as it is required to pass through the military checkpoints and enter the DMZ. Alien Registration Card (ARC), Military ID, and Korean Driving licenses are also accepted.
What time does the DMZ tour finish?
The finish time depends on the DMZ tour you choose, so please check each tour separately. There may also be delays due to traffic, military events, weather, or other conditions on the day, so the finish time may be later than scheduled. We therefore recommend choosing a date when you do not have any additional plans after the tour, or factoring in potential delays to the tour’s end time. We will not be held responsible for missed flights or other issues resulting from delays to tour completion times! Thank you for your understanding.
Are DMZ tours available every day?
No, not all DMZ tours are available every day! DMZ tours, including the 3rd Tunnel of Aggression or the Joint Security Area (Panmunjom), are not available on Mondays, public holidays, and military training days. If you are looking to book a tour on Monday, we recommend our Aegibong Tour: Closest Lookout to North Korea tour or our The Ultimate DMZ GO Package Tour.
Which DMZ tour is the best?
The best DMZ tour is somewhat subjective, but generally speaking, the most crowd-pleasing and best-reviewed tour is our DMZ Third Tunnel Tour from Seoul + Exclusive JSA Experience Museum. It is also the one everyone talks about. It includes key points such as the 3rd infiltration tunnel and provides a clear, unobstructed view of North Korea. If you are unsure which tour to book, then this is the one we would recommend.
Do we need to bring our own food?
No, you do not need to bring your own food unless you have strict dietary requirements. You can purchase snacks and food at certain stops/locations during the tour. Water is also available everywhere.
Is there a toilet on the bus?
No, there are no toilets on board Korean buses. No buses/coaches in Korea have toilets. However, at every stop on the tour, there will be a nearby restroom, and your tour guide can point you to it.
Can I bring luggage with me?
Yes, you are welcome to bring luggage, and it can be stored in the luggage/cargo bay under the bus during the tour.
Do you provide baby car seats, or can I bring my own?
We cannot provide car seats for infants. As this is a bus-based group tour, baby car seats cannot be installed, and each seat requires a ticket. Infants must sit on their parent or guardian’s lap during the tour.
Can I still do the tour if I have health conditions or limited mobility?
We cannot provide medical advice, and your participation is at your own risk. However, those with health conditions, injuries, or very poor physical fitness may skip uphill walking sections and tunnels and instead explore the site or wait for the group. If this applies to you, please inform your tour guide on the day so they can guide you effectively.
Hotel pick up and drop off?
Our tours do not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but we offer multiple convenient pickup and drop-off points at major subway station exits in central Seoul. The locations are both easy to reach and offer convenient onward travel, with plenty of transportation options. Please check each tour separately for its specific pickup and drop-off points.
Is there a dress code?
The only tours with a strict dress code are those visiting the Joint Security Area (JSA), also known as Panmunjom. This is because this location is politically sensitive, where North and South Korean border guards stand facing off. Visitors must show respect and maintain appropriate behavior. North Korean soldiers have also been observed taking photographs of poorly dressed, disrespectful, or sloppy visitors, which have then later been used in North Korean media for propaganda. If visiting the JSA/Panmunjom, you must observe the following dress code: Blue jeans are permitted, but no sleeveless shirts, t-shirts without a collar, short pants, skirts, sandals, military-looking clothing, or clothing with a country flag, name, or nationality.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring your passport (ARC card, Korean driving license, or military ID card), a bottle of water, your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and dress for the weather, as parts of the tour will be outdoors. A raincoat will also be a good idea on rainy days.
Can I visit the DMZ by myself without a tour?
No. The DMZ is a politically sensitive, secure, military-controlled area. Independent access is not allowed. All visitors must join a tour and pass through military-controlled checkpoints, where ID verification is required for their group.
How long do tours last?
Depending on the tour you choose, your DMZ tour may last between 6 and 10 hours. However, please be aware that delays can and do occasionally occur due to traffic, military events (or other events in the DMZ), and adverse weather conditions. These are out of our control, so please plan accordingly.
When is the best time to visit the DMZ?
Each season in Korea offers something a little unique. Winter brings snow, spring offers pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures, autumn features colourful leaves and clear skies, and summer offers the most vibrant emerald-green hues. However, the best time to visit is when visibility is optimal.
Is there an age limit for participating in DMZ tours?
The only DMZ tours with an age limit are those that visit the Joint Security Area (Panmunjom). This is due to its political sensitivity and security considerations. Children must be at least 12 years old (no exceptions) and be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times during the tour.
Can I bring a pram/stroller?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a pram or stroller, and it can be stored under the bus in the luggage hold.