Best North Korea View & Closest Starbucks to DMZ tour from Seoul
Description
Looking for the absolute best views of North Korea? Then buckle up for the ultimate DMZ adventure from Seoul to Aegibong, where you'll get the best, unobstructed, and jaw-dropping views of North Korea from South Korea! Skirting the edge of the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), this tour takes you closer than you ever thought possible to this mysterious border, with the river by your side and stopping at the closest observatory to the DMZ. Plus, sip a latte at the nearest Starbucks to North Korea while soaking in the wild, untouched beauty of the no-man's zone. This isn't just a tour, it's a thrilling peek into history with a side of epic scenery, making it a must-do for adventure seekers! The Associated Press (AP) described the Starbucks Aegibong branch, a striking emblem of global capitalism, as "a powerful symbol of security", while CNN noted, "You can even see North Koreans walking around", calling it "one of the few ways to look inside North Korea without crossing the border".
Tour Options
Itinerary
Pick-up location 1: Myeongdong Subway Station (Exit 9)
Pick-up location 2: Seoul City Hall Subway Station (Exit 6)
Pick-up location 3: Hongdae Subway Station (Exit 3)
Although this tour doesn't technically enter the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), it does take you right up to the edge along the Jogang river, which forms part of the DMZ near Aegibong. Here you can see the best possible unobstructed views of North Korea, unmatched anywhere else. As we pass by, you can enjoy not just the sights of North Korea but also the abundant, undisturbed nature and wildlife in the restricted no-man's zones.
This is a brief stop so your guide can receive your entrance tickets. It is also a checkpoint where you will need to show your passport in order to pass through the security area, as it is still a sensitive geopolitical area being so close to North Korea.
Salute heroes at this stirring site, where 15,000 Marines battled in the Korean War. Feel the sacrifice as the DMZ views ignite history's pulse!
Explore this unique DMZ-facing park, blending lush trails and war relics. Korea's only eco-peace hub stuns with North Korean vistas.
Wander vibrant themed gardens to the Sky Forest canopy. Spot 80+ rare bird species and gaze at North Korea from a different perspective.
Cross this 150m thrill-ride for heart-pounding North Korea views. A thrill-seeker's dream, it's also the place to snap some epic border shots of North Korea!
Take some rest at the outdoor seating area of the performance stage, where you may also catch some modern or traditional cultural performances if your timing is right. Enjoy the views over Jogang River and gaze upon the DMZ from a unique angle.
Ring this iconic bell, echoing hopes of peace across the DMZ. Cast in 2000, it symbolizes hope for reunification. A must-do ritual!
Reflect at this altar and honor the dreams for unity, with North Korea in sight. Built in 2018, it's a beacon of hope.
Sip a latte at the world’s closest Starbucks to North Korea. Enjoy clear views across the border while enjoying a coffee with a side of geopolitics!
Get the ultimate, unobstructed view of North Korea from Korea's closest observatory to the DMZ. Binoculars reveal villages just 1.4km away!
Drop-off location: Our tour bus will drop you off in Hongdae, a central location in downtown Seoul, and an ideal transportation hub from where you can continue with your day. Hongdae itself is also a vibrant, youthful area with trendy cafes, street performances, and unique shops. This artistic neighborhood offers live K-pop performances by wannabe next-generation youth, quirky arcades, and delicious street food, perfect for immersing yourself in Seoul's creative culture.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Passport is required during the tour. (You cannot enter without a passport)