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Introducing Odusan Unification Observatory
The Unification Observatory (Tong·il Jeonmangdae; 945 3171; www.jmd.co.kr; adult/youth W2500/1300; 9am-6pm Apr-Sep, 9am-5.30pm Oct, Nov & Mar, 9am-5pm Dec-Feb) at Odusan is as close as most Korean civilians can get to the DMZ. Panmunjom, north of Seoul, is actually inside the DMZ and can be visited by foreigners, but Korean civilians are not normally allowed there (so make sure you don’t plan on bringing a Korean friend when you take the USO tour). This large, futuristic building has a viewing area, museum, gift shop and auditorium. Festivals and events are sometimes held here; check the website for details.
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Since the Unification Observatory does offer South Koreans a rare peek at the forbidden North, tourists by the bus load turn up here daily throughout the summer months, and it’s also popular with tours from Japan and Taiwan. It isn’t quite the same as going to Panmunjom – there’s little of the tension since the Unification Observatory isn’t actually in the DMZ but is instead a few kilometres away. If you want to see anything at all (such as the UN post, the North Korean post – only just –and the North’s propaganda signs), you have to use the pay telescopes for viewing. It’s calm and non-threatening, but still interesting.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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