The Demilitarized Zone stretches more than 200 km in length and is around 4 km wide and has been left basically untouched for decades, curtained off from industrial development.

For the ecosystem this has done wonders, allowing hundreds of animal and plant species to flourish, including some rare ones.

The provincial government of Gyeonggi Province through agreement with the Korean military has decided to make parts of the ecosystem within the DMZ public.

Obviously, the area to be made into a park is on South Korean soil over 3,000 sq.km in total. The plan involves an unprecedented move to take down fences that restrict civilians from crossing into the DMZ area.

The park will be ready to welcome visitors by 2010 with plans of recreating remnants from six decades ago. One likely scenario is an Imjin River cruise aboard a traditional sailing ship. Plans also include restoration of the Freedom Bridge, which is the only bridge that links North and South Korea.

Additionally Gyeonggi Province plans to build a complex near the park where visitors can spend an hour or two shopping and sightseeing. Officials say the DMZ natural park tour will provide a unique insight into Korea's historic past and the wonders of Korea at its natural best.

Arirang News