Gangwon-do Launches DMZ Themed Routes in Earnest: "Into the Pristine Nature of the Demilitarized Zone"

Gangwon Province to Fully Open Six DMZ Peace Trail Themed Routes

Six Courses Across Five Border Counties

Open from April 17 to November 30

All Five Border Counties Participating

Ecology, History, and Security Experience Tourism Begins in Earnest

Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province will open six courses of the 'DMZ Peace Trail Themed Routes,' which have been established in five counties bordering the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), from April 17 to November 30.

Theme route operation map. Provided by Gangwon Province

The 'Themed Routes' are programs designed to allow participants to experience the values of freedom, security, and peace by utilizing the unique ecological, cultural, and historical resources north of the DMZ and Civilian Control Line. Each course offers a variety of experiences.

The courses include: ▲ Cheorwon Baekmagoji Course, where South Korean forces recaptured the area from Chinese forces during the Korean War; ▲ Hwacheon Baegamsan Bimok Course, known as the background of the song 'Bimok' and accessible by cable car; ▲ Yanggu Dutayeon Bloody Ridge Course, where nature remains preserved despite the war; ▲ Inje Daegok-ri Outpost~1052 Highland Course, offering magnificent views of the Baekdu-daegan mountain range; and ▲ Goseong Unification Observatory & Geumgangsan Observatory Course, where visitors can view both Haegumgang and Mount Geumgang along the East Coast.

For most sections, participants will travel by vehicle to ensure safety and protect local wildlife and plants. In some sections, guided walks are included, enabling participants to directly experience the meaning of peace, as well as the natural and historical value of the DMZ.

Reservations for the program can be made through the Korea Tourism Organization’s 'Peace Trail' website or the 'Durunubi' walking tour mobile app. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis up to eight days before the visit. Each course operates once or twice a day, four to five days a week, and will be temporarily suspended during the peak summer heat (July to August).

Theme Route Operation Map. Provided by Gangwon Province

Participants must complete an identity verification process in advance and will be guided by professional interpreters or local village residents. The participation fee of 10,000 won can be refunded in the form of local gift certificates or specialty products to help revitalize the local economy.

Before opening the themed routes, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province is making every effort to ensure a safe and smooth operation, including joint inspections with central government ministries and provincial and county offices during the thawing season, in order to create a pleasant exploration environment.

Choi Jaehee, head of the Border Area Division of Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, stated, "The DMZ Peace Trail is more than just a walking course; it is a symbolic place that highlights the value of border regions." He added, "We expect that opening these themed routes will not only revitalize tourism in the stagnant DMZ border areas but also serve as an opportunity to boost the local economy."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.