Imjingak Park

The best seasons to visit Imjingak Park are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are at their most beautiful. Spring offers colorful blooms in the gardens, while autumn features vibrant foliage, making it perfect for photography and peaceful walks. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold but offer a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

Must-see attractions at Imjingak Park include the Freedom Bridge, symbolizing the return of war prisoners; the Peace Bell, representing hopes for reunification; and the old steam locomotive, marked with bullet holes from the Korean War. Visitors also enjoy the memorials dedicated to separated families, landscaped gardens, and the sculpture park that conveys messages of peace and hope.

Most visitors start their trip to Imjingak Park from Seoul, South Korea’s capital. From Seoul, you can take a direct bus or join a DMZ tour that includes Imjingak as a key stop. The park is located in Paju, about an hour’s drive from central Seoul, making it an accessible day trip destination for travelers.

A unique aspect of Imjingak Park is the preserved steam locomotive at Jangdan Station, which still bears over 1,000 bullet holes from the Korean War, serving as a stark reminder of the peninsula’s division. The park also hosts unification events and offers the “Peace Gondola” ride, providing a rare bird’s-eye view over the heavily guarded DMZ area, blending history with a unique, immersive experience.

Nearby places to visit along with Imjingak Park include the DMZ itself with tours to the Third Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory, Majang Lake for serene nature views, and the Paju Book City for cultural exploration. These spots combine history, nature, and culture, making for a comprehensive day trip from Seoul.