While other films about the Korean War are commonly action-oriented with many battle scenes, Welcome to Dongmakgol approaches the Korean War in a unique way; introducing comedy and lightheartedness to an overall tragic war story. With special effects, slow-motion and perharps also the music from Joe Hisaishi, the film gives an almost surreal, dream-like quality.

The villagers embrace the American, North Korean and South Korean soldiers equally, humanizing them and conveys the meaninglessness and bitterness of war. The North Korean soldiers are also depicted in a good light, driving home the message that all Koreans are just people, regardless of their dialect.