The Story of North Korea Told by a Defector
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Port
Incheon (Seoul), South Korea
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$380
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
After a comfortable 90-minute drive from the port, join a unique and insightful journey accompanied by a North Korean defector, who will share personal experiences and firsthand perspectives on life in North Korea, the Korean War's legacy, and the ongoing division of the Korean Peninsula.
Explore one of the closest public-access areas to the inter-Korean border, where visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the division of Korea and the enduring hope for peace and reunification. Your journey begins at Imjingak Park, one of the most significant sites related to Korea's modern history. Located adjacent to the Civilian Control Zone (CCZ) near the inter-Korean border, the park serves as a place of remembrance and reflection for families separated by the Korean War.
On your way to the Paju Imjingak Peace Gondola, visit the Mangbaedan Memorial Altar, where displaced families pay tribute to relatives in the North. Walk across the historic Bridge of Freedom, ring the Peace Bell, and view the iconic Dokgae Bridge, all of which stand as enduring symbols of the Korean Peninsula's divided past and hopes for future reconciliation. Throughout the visit, your North Korean defector guide will provide personal insights that bring these historic sites and events to life.
After lunch, continue to Odusan Unification Observatory, located atop Mount Odu at 387 feet (118 meters) above sea level. Situated at the confluence of the Han and Imjin Rivers, the observatory offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including areas of North Korea across the border. Here, you will have an opportunity to learn more about daily life in North Korea and ask questions directly to your North Korean defector companion.
Following your visit, enjoy a 90-minute drive back to the port.
Please note: Bring your passport. Travel time to the Paju is 90 minutes each way. Please wear modest clothing- no sleeveless or short sleeve shirts/t-shirts, no shorts, and no slippers. Odusan Unification Tower closed on Mondays. It will be replaced to Gloster Hill Memorial Park & Gamaksan Chulleong Bridge. Minimum age is 8 years. Tour does not operate on holidays.