DMZ: The Demilitarized Zone Dividing North and South Korea
Historical Significance
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a buffer zone established between North and South Korea in 1953 under the Korean Armistice Agreement. Following the Korean War, the 38th parallel became the demarcation line between the two countries.
Panmunjom, located within the DMZ, served as the site of the armistice agreement signing. Today, the American-led United Nations Command and North Korea maintain a joint conference room there.
Description of the DMZ
The DMZ spans 148 miles along the 38th parallel and contains territory from both North and South Korea. It is roughly 35 miles north of Seoul, South Korea's capital.
As a heavily fortified area, the DMZ is considered a remnant of the Cold War. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a popular tourist destination.
Joint Security Area (JSA)
At the border between North and South Korea lies a small neutral camp known as the Joint Security Area (JSA). Both the DMZ and the JSA were established by the Korean Armistice Agreement.
Current Tensions
North and South Korea maintain military presence along their respective sides of the DMZ. While fire exchange is rare, accidental clashes pose a potential risk.
The Biden administration has emphasized support for Asian allies, and the US Ambassador to the United Nations will visit the North Korean border to reiterate this commitment.
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