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Michael Portillo made a staggering ageing confession as he opened up about his latest exploration when the BBC confirmed four brand-new Great Railway Adventures. In the 15-part series, the veteran broadcaster returned to the rails to showcase Japan, South Korea, Central Asia and Continental Europe. In addition to detailing how technological innovation and traditional railways coexist in Japan, the 72-year-old kicked things off in the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 160-mile-long buffer zone that divides North and South Korea.

As one of the world's most heavily guarded borders, Michael admitted: "I think the DMZ, as it's known, is somewhere between spooky and scary. It is not a border; it is a ceasefire line. "There is still tremendous hostility between the North Koreans and the Republic of Korea. You are standing at the dividing line between two political systems, two political ideas."

The presenter added: "One is communism, one is capitalism, and there's a loathing between the two and a bitter rivalry, which, by the way, has seen the Republic of Korea raise living standards tens of times higher than in the North.

"So, it's perhaps one of your last opportunities to glimpse at what used to be called the Iron Curtain."

During his time in South Korea, Michael also explored its popular music scene, technology and food culture and told the BBC: "I suppose because of my age, I have been pretty immune to the impact of K-pop, until now.

"I have seen Korean movies, which I've admired very much. But I haven't been particularly aware of K-pop music. So, I did experience some of that on this journey and we have a lot of fun with it. I really enjoyed it."

In addition to his journey across Asia, Michael will also front the Great Continental Railway Journeys. The route will see him travel from the Mediterranean to the plains of Central Europe, beginning in Sardinia and Corsica.

According to the synopsis, Michael explores island histories and mountain railways before heading north through Belgium, from Brussels and Flanders to Wallonia and the Ardennes.

His journey will end in Hungary, from the Austrian border to Budapest and across the Great Plain, where he will uncover defining moments in European history alongside enduring cultural traditions.

Ahead of its premiere, Michaal shared: "I am delighted that these new journeys are about to reach the screen. From the exemplary rail network of Japan to the glorious architecture of Central Asia and the rich histories of Europe, each trip brought genuine surprises. There is always something new to learn and experience by train. All aboard!"