DMZ Tunnels Tour: Visiting the Third Infiltration Tunnel

Of the four North Korean infiltration tunnels discovered under the DMZ, the Third Tunnel is the only one open to tourists — and it’s a stop on virtually every DMZ tour from Seoul. Here’s what to expect.

Why a tunnel?

Discovered in 1978 thanks to a defector’s tip, the Third Infiltration Tunnel runs 1.6 km from north to south, 73 m underground. South Korean officials estimate it could move a full infantry division per hour. Today, 265 m of it are accessible by foot.

What the visit is like

You walk down a 358-m access ramp at an 11° gradient — physical and a little tiring on the way back up. A hard hat is provided (and useful: parts of the tunnel are barely 1.7 m high). Photography is forbidden inside.

Is it claustrophobic?

Yes, mildly. The tunnel is dimly lit, narrow, and you’ll cross other groups. Travellers with claustrophobia, severe knee problems or heart conditions should ask to wait at the surface monorail entrance instead.

What about the other tunnels?

The 1st, 2nd and 4th infiltration tunnels exist but are closed to the public for security reasons.

Affiliate disclosure: this page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep this guide independent and up-to-date.