What geographical feature divides North Korea from South Korea?

• A. Border wall
• B. Mountain range
• C. Demilitarized zone
• D. Rivers

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which serves as a buffer area between North Korea and South Korea. This zone was established as part of the armistice agreement that ended active hostilities in the Korean War in 1953. Spanning approximately 250 kilometers in length and about 4 kilometers in width, the DMZ is heavily fortified and acts as a barrier to prevent incursions from either side, while also symbolizing the ongoing division of the Korean peninsula.

The DMZ's significance is not just geographical; it holds historical and political weight, embodying the tensions and unresolved issues stemming from the Korean War. The presence of the DMZ has led to a range of military, diplomatic, and cultural considerations between the two Koreas, showcasing how a geographical feature can influence historical narratives and contemporary relations.

While a border wall, mountain ranges, and rivers may play roles in regional geography, none of these effectively encapsulate the unique and critical relevance that the DMZ holds in the context of North-South relations and the overarching history of the area. Therefore, identifying the DMZ as the geographical feature dividing North Korea and South Korea highlights its vital role in both the physical and political landscape of the region.