DMZ = Demilitarized Zone

JSA = Joint Security Area

DML = Demarcation Line

We’re back safe and sound, after seeing the DMZ. We even went down into the 3rd Tunnel (The third infiltration tunnel that the North Koreans dug beneath the DMZ…it ends only 44km away from Seoul).

The DMZ consists of 2km on the South Korean side, and 2km on the North Korean side, with the DML running the width of the country right down the middle of the DMZ. After the North and South signed the ceasefire (they’re technically still at war), both sides agreed to allow 2km on either side of the fence as a buffer. We stood atop an observation deck, and could see the North Korean troops in their guard posts.

We could also see the ‘Propaganda Village’ which the North Koreans constructed to show how prosperous they are….however, the place is absolutely deserted. Not a single person lives in that village. It’s entirely for show.

We also weren’t allowed off the bus in certain spots (mostly because the bus was moving) but also because there were still unswept minefields within spitting distance of the bus.

Liam and I did get a big laugh though, as we were waiting on the bus to show our passports at the security check, there was a gaggle of S.Korean soldiers ouside. One of them was demonstrating to his fellow soldiers how to execute a proper ballerina-style perrioutte. It was pretty funny. He was quite good, even with his army boots on!

I’d pay good money to see the JSA Ballet company perform!

Ugh. It’s just after 6:00 am, and Liam and I will be leaving for the DMZ (DeMilitarized Zone) in a few minutes. Normally, I’d be pretty excited, but I think I’m too sleepy right now. It’s one of the most heavily guarded (?) borders in the world, and we’re not allowed to wear jeans, shorts, sandals, military gear, and long hair is innapropriate for men. Not your typical tourist resort.

Liam, Gina and I arrived in Seoul yesterday afternoon – after a normal 2 hour bus ride instead of the 7 hours it took them to get to Daejeon on Tuesday. However, once we got back, they discovered that the water pipe to their respective apartments had frozen in their absence…so neither one of them have running water….which has it’s disadvantages.

Well, Gina and Liam arrived a full 5.5 hours late. Traffic out of Seoul last night was unreal, and a bit of blowing snow didn’t help either.

Once they arrived, and everyone was settled, we hung out until sometime past 3am….but we were all in bed by the time the monks started ringing their morning bell. (Iwas still awake, but in at least I was in bed.) After we finally got up, we had a spectacular day, and now the wee hours of morning have come again. Tomorrow we’re hoping to climb one of the local mountains if the weather cooperates.