1. Eligibility:
- Only foreign passport holders are permitted to visit the JSA. South Korean nationals are not allowed.
- Foreigners must be at least 18 years old and hold valid passports.
- Participants must be in good health and capable of walking long distances.
2. Booking:
- Reserve your spot in advance through a licensed travel agency in South Korea.
- The tour availability and schedule may vary, so book your tour as early as possible to secure a spot.
3. Preparation:
- Check the latest information on travel advisories and security measures before your visit.
- Carry your original passport and dress appropriately, respecting the significance of the area.
4. Meeting Point:
- Arrive at the designated meeting point in Seoul (usually Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station) at the specified time provided by your tour agency.
5. Travel to JSA:
- You'll be escorted by a tour guide and will travel in a group.
- The group will take you to Imjingak Park and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel.
- Then, you'll head to the JSA by car or bus, passing through strict checkpoints managed by the United Nations Command (UNC) and the Korean Military.
6. JSA Briefing:
- Upon entering the JSA, you'll receive a detailed briefing from the UNC Security Battalion's staff.
- They will explain the history of the JSA, the Armistice Agreement, and the rules and regulations for visiting.
7. Blue Houses:
- You'll proceed to the "Blue Houses," the negotiation rooms located in the middle of the JSA.
- The rooms are named for their blue roofs and are positioned on the exact demarcation line between North and South Korea.
8. Viewing Area:
- From the viewing area, you can look out across the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), the physical boundary between the two countries.
- You may glimpse North Korean soldiers standing guard on their side.
9. Conference Room:
- Inside the Blue Houses, visit the conference room where talks between North and South Korea have taken place.
10. Souvenir Shop:
- There is a souvenir shop within the JSA, where you can purchase mementoes and stamps.
11. Return:
- After the tour, you'll return to Seoul by the designated vehicle with your group.
Important Notes:
- Photography and videography are strictly regulated, so follow the instructions provided by the tour guide and UNC officials.
- You must respect the armistice agreement and avoid making gestures or remarks that could be seen as provocative.
- The tour itinerary and duration can vary slightly based on the tour operator and circumstances at the JSA.
Visiting the JSA is an exceptional experience that offers a glimpse into the complex history and ongoing tensions between North and South Korea. By adhering to the rules and regulations, you can safely explore this unique destination.
