Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Definition

The DMZ is a border barrier that divides the Korean Peninsula roughly in half. It was created by agreement between North Korea, China and the United Nations in 1953 as a buffer zone to cease hostilities after the Korean War.

Related terms

Korean War: A war fought between North Korea (supported by China and Russia) and South Korea (supported by UN forces predominantly US) from 1950-1953.

Armistice Agreement: An agreement signed in 1953 to end hostilities of the Korean War. However, it's not a peace treaty so technically both Koreas are still at war.

Panmunjom: A village located in the DMZ where negotiations took place during and after the Korean War. It's also known for its "Peace House" where inter-Korean talks are held.