Echoes of History Beautiful Sites Where the World Was Forever Changed

29. The 38th Parallel, Korea – The Line That Split a Nation

Few borders in the world are as tense or historically significant as the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which runs along the 38th parallel, dividing North and South Korea. This seemingly arbitrary line, drawn at the end of World War II, became the permanent border after the Korean War in 1953. The DMZ, stretching 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, is a paradox—one of the most militarized places on Earth, yet also a pristine wildlife sanctuary. The border has remained frozen in time for decades, a stark reminder of a war that never truly ended. Visiting the DMZ is an eerie yet fascinating experience, highlighting the lingering effects of Cold War politics.