Ten new routes along the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) Peace Trail will be launched on May 13. (Culture and travel section of Paju City Hall's website)

By Cao Thi Ha

Ten new themed routes along the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) Peace Trail will be opened on May 13.

Their launch presents a unique opportunity to experience the ecological, cultural and historical significance of the DMZ as well as gain a deeper appreciation of the importance of national security and freedom. The area is a leading destination for national security tourism that attracts both domestic and international visitors.

The 10 routes highlight the distinct characteristics of each municipality near the DMZ: Ganghwa-gun County in Incheon; the cities of Gimpo, Goyang and Paju and Yeoncheon-gun County in Gyeonggi-do Province; and the counties of Cheorwon-gun, Hwacheon-gun, Yanggu-gun, Inje-gun and Goseong-gun in Gangwon-do Province.

To ensure visitor safety and preserve the area's wildlife and nature, tours will primarily use vehicles. Key designated sections, however, will feature guided walks with military unit support to provide glimpses of the region's unique natural beauty and share the sad and heartwarming stories hidden in the area of commentators who are village residents and guides.

Those interested in visiting can make reservations on the trail's website (https://www.durunubi.kr/dmz-main.do) or the walking tour mobile app Durunubi.

"Our ministry will actively collaborate with relevant ministries and local governments around the border to develop the DMZ into a world-class tourism resource in national security and ecological experience found only in Korea," said Park Jong Taek, director-general of the ministry's Tourism Policy Bureau.

"We anticipate that the launch of these themed routes will revitalize national security tourism in the DMZ area and stimulate the local economy, which has stagnated due to population decline and development restrictions."

shinn11@korea.kr