My first weekend in country, and I am ready to roll! I took my first outing outside of Seoul, a visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). It was a sobering day, but I thought it was very important that this be one of the first places I visited. I wanted to see first-hand why I was here. Although it is outside the city, the DMZ is alarmingly close to the city center. After a short (30 minutes or so) bus ride along the Han River, complete with barbed wire along the entire river's edge, we arrived at the Joint Security Area. This is the most heavily fortified border in the world, and like I said, it is only a few kilometers outside of Seoul.
The North Korean administrative headquarters in grey, and South Korean buildings in blue. Look closely to see the North Korean guard at the top of the steps and the South Korean soldier posted in a martial arts position half way behind the blue building. They face off 24 hours a day. It is quite tense.
In this picture I am standing in North and South Korea at the same time!
ROK soldier posted in ready-position.
Republic of Korea in the foreground (trees); North Korea in the background (no trees). Aside from the deforested side, it is really amazing how pristine the DMZ is. The absence of people has allowed the flora and fauna to flourish, and is incredibly lush and, ironically, peaceful.
No women are stationed at the Joint Security Area.
The world's most dangerous gold course. The rough is a live mine field. Good incentive to improve your handicap!
Fun to see some of these photos again and some new ones for the first time. HUGS!
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