The Border

     Can you notice the raised, long and thin structure between the concrete and the graveled space in the center of the picture. It is the border between both Koreas. A few decades ago, one of the visitors from the North abruptly started to run and come out toward the South, who was a Russian student. He wanted to escape out of the country. The North Korean soldiers fired at him, and the U.N. responded to save him. He was successful at last, but some South Korean soldiers were injured or killed. Quoting this incident, the guide explained the possibility that an exchange of fire might happen just now. She continued that ordinary South Korean citizens weren't allowed to visit there, because of the prevention of escape to the North. Some Koreans might have relatives or friends in the North. If South Korean people wanted to visit Panmunjom, they have to apply to the government. The government investigates the applicant's profile, background and resumes thoroughly. If there was no problem, the application would be approved. However, it usually takes a half year to get the permission, and besides all the private stuff gets recorded in the documents of the government.
     The second picture shows a part of the declaration form for Japanese. It means, I will never complain about what happens to me in Panmunjom, even if I lose my life.
     How do you feel about Panmunjom?

(Vocabulary)
long and thin   細長い
graveled   砂利を敷いた

Comments

[Sarah]

I think that it would be pretty hard to complain about what happened in Panmunjom, if the person actually died.

How do I feel about Panmunjom? I think it's fascinating that people visit there. I would be so nervous and tense to be in such a dangerous place. I don't know that I could do it. While in South Korea a few years ago, my boyfriend really wanted to go, but we didn't have enough time. I feel sad for the people who have family on the other side and can't see them when they want to. I think sometimes I don't realize the advantages to being from America and having nearly endless opportunities as to where I want to visit. I feel sorry for the common citizens of the Korea's. I really wish there could be some solution.

Anyway, I really appreciate reading all of your blogs, I think I have learned quite a bit about Panmunjom, and it has led me to read up on it a bit of my own. Thank you!