North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrives in China via new border bridge

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in the Chinese border city of Dandong, traveling via the newly opened New Yalu River Bridge, South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported.

The four-lane bridge was completed in 2014 but remained unused for 12 years due to missing connecting roads and customs facilities on the North Korean side. It officially opened about a week ago, marking a step toward strengthening economic ties between China and North Korea.

China is North Korea's largest trading partner and provides key diplomatic, economic, and political support, although their relationship has experienced challenges.

Kim's visit follows the recent opening of a road bridge between North Korea and Russia, which Pyongyang highlighted as a sign of closer ties with Russia. Analysts note that trade with China could supply goods necessary for North Korea's civilian economy development, contrasting with its mainly military trade with Russia.

Kim's last known visit to China was in September 2025 for the 80th Victory Day celebrations in Beijing, where he met Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi also made a state visit to North Korea in June 2026, indicating improving relations between the two countries.