Beyond the DMZ: Meet North Korean Defector & Signed Book
At a glance
Beyond the DMZ: Meet North Korean Defector & Signed Book is a 2h private experience in Seoul, South Korea, operated by Discovery Beyond DMZ. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 11 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $150 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Depends on your booking, it could be lunch or dinner with North Korean food.
Highlights
- Private experience — just you and your group
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Private tour — only your group
- Languages
- Korean, English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
This is not just a tour. It is a rare opportunity to experience a story most people will never hear in their lifetime.
No translator is needed. You will meet Eunhee, who escaped North Korea alone at the age of 21 and is now the author of The Courage to Die. You can ask anything freely and have a real, direct conversation that goes far beyond surface level understanding.
This experience is not about information. It is about connection. You will hear raw and personal stories that cannot be found in documentaries, media, or online searches.
✅ You will also share a meal of authentic North Korean cuisine, where stories and culture come together in a meaningful way.
✅ Each guest will receive a signed copy of The Courage to Die, making this experience something you can carry with you long after it ends.
If you are looking for something truly unique, personal, and unforgettable, this experience will change the way you see North Korea and the meaning of freedom.
What's included
What's included
- Depends on your booking, it could be lunch or dinner with North Korean food
Not included
- Personal expenses
Itinerary
-
Private Small Group (Max 5): Dinner, Stories & Human Connection with a North Korean Defector + Signed Book
✅ Perfect for:
Curious travelers, human rights supporters, and anyone seeking a deeper, more meaningful travel experience beyond the headlines.
Most travelers visit the DMZ.
But very few ever meet someone who has lived in North Korea.
This experience is hosted by Eunhee, a North Korean defector and author of The Courage to Die, a TEDx speaker fluent in English.
You will meet Eunhee at a cozy North Korean restaurant in Seoul and share an authentic meal she grew up with—dishes connected to real memories and everyday life.
As you dine together, she will share her personal journey—growing up in North Korea, escaping the regime, and building a new life in South Korea.
Just honest conversation, real stories, and a safe space to ask anything—from daily life to defection and the meaning of freedom.
✅ Each guest receives a signed copy of The Courage to Die—a meaningful keepsake from this experience.
In a country where many travelers are curious about North Korea, this is more than information.
It’s a rare and unique opportunity to truly understand.
Meeting point
The name of the restaurant is "북녘식당 친친"
▶ It is located within a 12-minute walk from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station.
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This experience requires a minimum 6 number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
- If there aren't a minimum of 3 customers, the service may be cancelled.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Beyond the DMZ: Meet North Korean Defector & Signed Book take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $150 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Depends on your booking, it could be lunch or dinner with North Korean food.
Where does it start?
The name of the restaurant is "북녘식당 친친" ▶ It is located within a 12-minute walk from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in Korean, English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 11 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Seoul.
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