Three Trail Segments Closed Since April 2024 The DMZ Peace Trail, launched in 2019 with eleven routes, lost access to sections in Paju, Cheorwon and Goseong when security concerns tied to heightened North Korean tensions forced closures in April 2024 [1][2]. Those three segments were part of the broader effort to give civilians a limited view of the heavily fortified border zone. Their shutdown has limited public tourism and educational activities in the area.

Unification Ministry Initiates UNC Consultations South Korea’s Unification Ministry announced it will seek formal talks with the United Nations Command to secure reopening of the three closed trails [1][2]. The plan is embedded in this year’s policy agenda and aims to align with broader confidence‑building measures toward the North. Officials anticipate UNC objections, arguing that the 1953 armistice does not bar peaceful civilian use of the DMZ.

Minister Chung Dong‑young Leads Reopening Campaign Unification Minister Chung Dong‑young visited the sealed Goseong segment, reaffirmed a commitment to restore full trail access within a year, and did so under UNC escort as part of the DMZ Education and Orientation Program [1][3]. His tour included walking the ROK Peace Trail routes south of the Southern Boundary Line, highlighting ongoing transparency efforts. The minister frames the initiative as a trust‑building step with North Korea.

UNC Maintains Jurisdiction Over DMZ Paths The United Nations Command reiterated that the three walking paths remain restricted under its authority, citing continued security considerations [1][2]. UNC, as the armistice enforcer, oversees all activities inside the DMZ and has not altered existing access policies. South Korean officials argue that peaceful use should be permissible, creating a diplomatic tension over jurisdiction.