Panmunjom is an area on the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) where democratic South Korea and communist North stand face to face, technically at war. This seemingly tense standoffs is one of the last remnants of the Cold War. Panmunjom is located inside the Joint Security Area on the neutral Military Demarcation Line (MDL).
The visit described on this page took place on an earlier tour. See the DMZ guide for booking considerations and the distinction between DMZ tours and JSA access. A standard DMZ tour does not automatically include Panmunjom or the blue conference buildings.
The Korean Armistice Agreement was signed here by General Nam Il and General Harrison at 10:00 on July 27, 1953. It was later signed by Kim Il Sung and General Mark W. Clark.
Panmunjom is the name of a now abandoned and destroyed village located about 53 kilometers (33 miles) northwest of Seoul. Panmunjom is also known as the Joint Security Area or JSA because of its location about 800 meters (2,624 feet) south of the village.
The blue buildings seen here are located on the Military Demarcation Line. These buildings, which are both in South Korea and North Korea, are used by both countries during conferences and talks. It is here were soldiers on both sides stand face to face. On the earlier tour described here, visitors could enter one of the blue conference buildings and, when permitted, cross to the North Korean side of the room. This does not mean the same access is available on a current DMZ tour.
In the background on the North side is the gray Panmungak building. Notice its Cold War communist design. On the South side where you are standing is the Freedom House and the Joint Security Area Visitor Center. Photos of these buildings are not allowed for security purposes.
Last Updated on Oct 2, 2026