Republic of Korea Unification Minister Chung Dong-young Visits DMZ for Education Program

Minister's Visit to the Demilitarized Zone

On January 21, 2026, Republic of Korea Minister of Unification Chung Dong-young undertook a visit near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), escorted by the United Nations Command (UNC). The purpose of the visit was an education and orientation program conducted at a designated Demilitarized Zone Education and Orientation Program (DEOP) site. These specific locations are maintained to allow for safe, escorted access for educational and orientation activities within the DMZ, with the UNC having designated 15 such sites to uphold the safety and stability of the area. During his visit, Minister Chung also walked established ROK Peace Trail routes situated south of the DMZ's Southern Boundary Line.

The Role of the United Nations Command

The United Nations Command plays a critical role in the administration and oversight of the DMZ. For over 70 years, the UNC has managed the DMZ under the Armistice Agreement, which was signed in 1953, to prevent escalation and maintain stability on the Korean Peninsula. All access to the DMZ is meticulously reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with paramount consideration given to safety, security, and compliance with the Armistice. The UNC's escort of Minister Chung Dong-young underscores its authority and responsibility in facilitating approved movements within this sensitive border region.

Context of DMZ Peace Trails and Future Plans

The Republic of Korea operates a network of Peace Trails, extending from Ganghwa to Goseong. While most of these trails are located outside the DMZ and are accessible under ROK authorities, certain walking paths within the DMZ remain restricted due to ongoing security considerations and fall under UNC jurisdiction. Minister Chung Dong-young's visit to a closed section of the Peace Trail in Goseong on Wednesday was accompanied by his renewed commitment to reopening these sections to the public. He stated, 'I will make efforts to have the Peace Trail reclaim its full course by reopening the (closed) sections within the DMZ, in line with the Lee Jae Myung government's measures to preemptively restore trust (with North Korea).' This initiative, however, is likely to necessitate further consultations with the UNC, which has previously emphasized that existing DMZ access policies and procedures remain unchanged and that all access is subject to their review for security and Armistice compliance.

Significance of the Visit

Minister Chung Dong-young's visit to the DMZ serves to highlight the ongoing efforts by the Republic of Korea to engage with the complex realities of the inter-Korean border, balancing security imperatives with educational and peace-building objectives. As Minister of Unification, a role he also held from 2004 to 2005, his engagement with the DMZ and the Peace Trails reflects the government's broader strategy for inter-Korean relations and the eventual pursuit of peaceful reunification.