Day 4 – Visited DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) : Paju-si, South Korea (Apr’24)
On the fourth day of our South Korean adventure in April 2024, we embarked on a journey to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Paju-si, a region that stands as a poignant reminder of the Korean Peninsula’s complex history.
Day 4 – Travel Memories in Paju-si, South Korea
- Half-day-guided tour to DMZ
- Visit the Odusan Unification Tower near the North Korean border
- Breakfast at Odusan Unification Tower cafe
- Visited the old Prime Minister House near DMZ
- A long walk around DMZ
- Taken Korean lunch in Seoul with Korean drink soju
- In the evening, we visited Starfield Library
- Dinner at Gangnam Street
Behind Us is the North Korean Border
Morning: Odusan Unification Tower
Our day began with a visit to the Odusan Unification Tower, situated near the North Korean border. This tower offers panoramic views of the Han River and the North Korean landscape, providing a unique vantage point to reflect on the division of the peninsula. The exhibits within the tower delve into the history of the Korean War and the ongoing efforts toward unification, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s geopolitical dynamics.
Afternoon: Visit to the Former Prime Minister’s House
In the afternoon, we visited the former Prime Minister’s House near the DMZ. This historical site offers insights into the lives of South Korean leaders during the Korean War era and the early years of the Republic of Korea. The preserved architecture and artifacts provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing us to appreciate the resilience and determination of the nation’s leaders during tumultuous times.
Exploration of the DMZ
Following our time at the tower, we proceeded to explore the DMZ area. This heavily militarized zone, approximately 250 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, serves as a buffer between North and South Korea.
Visited Starfield Library
Futuristic library & cultural event space on 2 levels of a mall with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. which has more than 70,000 books
Evening: Return to Seoul and Gangnam Street
After a day of reflection and exploration, we returned to Seoul. To unwind, we visited Gangnam Street, a vibrant district known for its bustling atmosphere, shopping, and dining options. The lively energy of Gangnam offered a stark contrast to the solemnity of the DMZ, highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of South Korean society.
