Our tour guide Mr. Song was amazing. He was very knowledgeable about all things history. We start out our day with a one hour drive to the DMZ. On this drive he told us about the history of the Korean War and how the US got involved. He also pointed out various landmarks along the drive. Once we arrived he arranged our tickets and joined us on the shuttle bus. Since this is an active military site movement is restricted and monitored. Through each step of the way he explained what we were looking at and the significance behind it. Yes, the DMZ is a commercialized tourist destination with everything from restaurants and coffee shops to souvenir shops, soybean ice cream, and an amusement park, but it is also full of history. It’s a place that is fascinating and heartbreaking, while also sending a message of hope and kindness.