Translation guide
A demilitarised zone (DMZ) is an area where military forces, equipment, and activities are prohibited by agreement. In Japanese, the standard term is 非武装地帯, but the abbreviation DMZ is also widely understood. The Korean DMZ is commonly referred to as 38度線 or 軍事境界線.
The learner wants to refer to any demilitarised zone in a neutral or formal context.
Standard Japanese term for a demilitarised zone. Used in official and general contexts.
その地域は非武装地帯に指定された。
The area was designated as a demilitarised zone.
Abbreviation for 'demilitarised zone', commonly used in news and technical contexts. Pronounced ディーエムゼット.
DMZ内での軍事活動は禁止されている。
Military activities are prohibited within the DMZ.
The learner specifically means the DMZ between North and South Korea.
Literally '38th parallel', this is the most common way to refer to the Korean DMZ in everyday conversation and news.
38度線付近では緊張が続いている。
Tensions continue near the 38th parallel.
When talking about the Korean DMZ, 38度線 (38th parallel) is the most natural choice in casual and news contexts. 非武装地帯 is also correct but sounds more formal or generic. 軍事境界線 refers specifically to the demarcation line itself.
Military Demarcation Line; the actual border within the DMZ. Used in more precise or official contexts.
軍事境界線を越えることは許されない。
Crossing the Military Demarcation Line is not permitted.
Panmunjom, the truce village located in the DMZ. Often used metonymically for the DMZ or inter-Korean talks.
板門店で南北会談が行われた。
Inter-Korean talks were held at Panmunjom.