A Demilitarized Zone (abbreviated as 'DMZ') is an area of reduced military presence that lies on the border between two states, usually agreed to in the aftermath of an armed conflict where a complete peaceful resolution has not yet been reached. The reduced military presence within a DMZ is intended to reduce the likelihood of an accidental or intentional armed confrontation.

Active Demilitarized Zones

There are several notable Demilitarized Zones around the world:

• The Korean Demilitarized Zone along the complete border separating North and South Korea. The 'peace village' of Panmunjeom straddles the border line and is controlled by both sides.
• The Green Line on Cyprus dividing both the capital Nicosia and the northern part of the island (known as Northern Cyprus) from the south.

Former Demilitarized Zones

There are also many former DMZ zones that are no longer active but are of historical interest:

• The former DMZ (Vietnam) was the border area between North Vietnam and South Vietnam before reunification.

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