What is bridge of no return?

The Bridge of No Return is a symbolic bridge located within the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North Korea and South Korea. It was used for prisoner exchanges during the Korean War and is known as the "Bridge of No Return" because once a prisoner crossed the bridge, they were not allowed to return to their home country.

The bridge was initially used by both North and South Korea for POW exchanges following the signing of the Armistice Agreement in 1953. However, many prisoners were forced to make a final decision on whether to cross the bridge and permanently leave their home country or stay behind, knowing they may face persecution or death.

The most famous exchange that took place at the Bridge of No Return was known as Operation Little Switch in 1953, where sick and wounded prisoners were repatriated between the two sides. The bridge has since become a symbol of division and the lasting effects of the Korean War.

Today, the Bridge of No Return stands as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between North and South Korea and serves as a tourist attraction for visitors to the DMZ.