The Freedom Bridge at the DMZ
Quick answerThe Freedom Bridge crosses the Imjin River at Imjingak and is one of the most moving sights of any DMZ tour. It was the route by which thousands of prisoners of war returned to the South after the armistice. Today one end is closed at a wall covered in colorful ribbons, flags and handwritten messages of hope for reunification.
Its history
The bridge earned its name because returning prisoners of war crossed it back to freedom in the South after the 1953 armistice.
Ribbons and messages
A wall at the end of the bridge is covered in ribbons, flags and messages left by visitors and by families still separated by the border.
As part of Imjingak
The bridge sits within Imjingak peace park, so it is easy to combine with the memorials and the gondola on the same stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the Freedom Bridge?
It is named for the prisoners of war who crossed it back to freedom in South Korea after the 1953 Korean War armistice.
Can you walk across the Freedom Bridge?
You can walk onto the bridge up to the wall of ribbons at the end, but it does not cross into the controlled zone, as one end is closed.