DMZ [한반도 비무장 지대]: short for Demilitarized zone, is a region on the Korean peninsula that demarcates North Korea from South Korea.

Looking back on my summer in Korea, attending the DMZ festival was easily one of my most memorable moments.

Aside from the fact that I fell super ill on the morning of our supposed trip to the demilitarized zone, I forgot all about it once the peaceful event started.

Today, I’m going to share with you a snippet of DMZ’s charm.

The birth of DMZ

The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula. Built on July 27, 1953, it constitutes a border barrier that divides the Korean Peninsula roughly in half, thus separating North Korea from South Korea.

Within the DMZ is a meeting point between the two nations in the small Joint Security Area near the western end of the zone, where negotiations take place.

DMZ Festival

In celebration of Korea’s independence day on August 15th, a peace concert is held annually beforehand at the demilitarized zone.

To make sure we get the best view, we made it to the site at 8h35 AM, and checked out the facilities surrounding us throughout the day.

I was so out of it that day, I was barely affected by the numerous rides we took on a nearby attraction park. Granted, I enjoyed the K-pop songs that played during the little venture.

The 2017 DMZ Peace Concert had a rich lineup of artists consisting of Girls’ Generation, K.Will, B1A4, GFriend, Astro and SF9 among others. I was incredibly mesmerized by BTOB, MAMAMOO, and Ailee’s powerful vocals.

Furthermore, the event was crowned with touching speeches, heartwarming tributes, and aesthetic patriotic performances that beautifully marked the festival.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgCegGYFMQQ/?taken-by=esmeegoeshallyu

Side Activities

Since the area is mainly restricted, the best way to explore it is to sign up for a special DMZ tour while keeping the areas you want to visit in mind.

Also, make sure to have your ID with you at all times, and don’t take pictures before asking for permission.

Random Thoughts

Although I didn’t get to see much of the actual DMZ, I will definitely add it to my bucket list to explore it further.

There is a tangible sense of patriotism that gives the area its charm. Moreover, the beauty of this country lies within its genuine love for its people, from either side.

I’m praying for the two Koreas to make peace, and for the separated families to finally reunite one day.

That’s all for today! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, and stay tuned for more Hallyu gems. Until I see you next time, thank you for reading me.