Bridge of No Return

This span crosses the Military Demarcation Line within the Joint Security Area, linking North Korea to South Korea. The crossing sits on the border between both countries and once served for exchanges across the armistice line.

During Operation Big Switch in 1953, more than 70,000 North Korean and Chinese prisoners moved across this spot in exchange for around 12,700 United Nations soldiers. The crossing closed forever after a deadly incident involving American officers in 1976.

The name reflects the final choice prisoners faced in 1953, when no one could turn back after crossing. Soldiers picked between two homelands on this span and could never reverse their decision.

The crossing has remained impassable for decades and can only be seen from a distance on guided tours through the Joint Security Area. Visitors cannot approach the closed zone, as guards monitor the surrounding area at all times.

American soldiers occasionally hold promotion and reenlistment ceremonies at the center of this span, standing between both Korean states. These rituals take place at one of the few spots on Earth where two countries technically still at war come this close.

Location: Kaesong

Location: Paju

Part of: North Korea–South Korea border

GPS coordinates: 37.95613,126.67060

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03