Imjingak: DMZ tour on a budget
North of Seoul, lies the Imjin Park. Which lies on the banks of the river Imjin, located just 7 km from the border to North Korea. The Imjin park is easily accessible by public transport, which makes it the perfect place to go if you’re on a budget and don’t to visit the DMZ. Imjingak also does not require a security check, making it a famous spot in the Gyeonggi-do Province.
The park was made as a place to console, for those who cannot visit their hometowns, families or friends due to the division of Korea. But also built as a place, as a hope for reunification of Korea.
At Imjingak you will also find the Freedom bridge, which was used by returning South Korean soldiers after the Korean War armistice was signed.
At Imjingak you can also find the North Korea Center of Unification Board, where you can see more than 400 pictures and documents, which shows the reality of living in North Korea.
On the Bridge Of Freedom many families and friends of North Koreans post messages on a fence, in hopes of reunification of Korea.
One of the trains from the old Gyeongui which was destroyed during the Korean War, has been restored as a remembrance of the Korean War.
From the observatory deck, you can spot North Korean mountains near Kaesong
In the park there’s also 12 tanks and airplanes which were used during the Korean war.
You can also enjoy various kinds of Korean street food at Imjimgak, or even visit Popeyes which is located in the same building as the observatory deck. Though Popeyes is closed on Sundays.
If you want to have some fun, you can try the rides at the amusement park, which stands in contrast to the grey monuments and history of the DMZ.
How to get there by public transport.
Subway:
Take the Gyeongui Line, to Munsan station which is also the last stop on the line. You can take the
Then it’s a 10 minute walk to the Munsan bus terminal.
After you reach the terminal, take the bus no. #058 until you arrive at Imjingak Resort, from the bus stop it’s a short 5 minute walk to the DMZ.
Bus:
From Seoul station take the bus no. #909 until you reach Munsan Bus Terminal.
From Munsan bus Terminal change to the no. #058 and get off at Imjingak Resort, from there it’s a short 5 minute walk to the DMZ
