First road bridge between Russia and North Korea opened

Russia and North Korea have opened their first road bridge across the Tumen River, marking a new milestone in their increasingly close ties.

The 1-kilometre, two-lane bridge connects Russia’s Khasan with North Korea’s Tumangang.

It is expected to facilitate cargo transportation and boost trade, tourism and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The bridge, named after Soviet officer Yakov Novichenko, complements the existing railway link between Russia and North Korea.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song attended the opening ceremony via video link.

The opening comes as Moscow and Pyongyang have significantly strengthened their political, economic and military ties since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.