North Korea and Russia Open First Road Bridge Over Tumen River

On Monday, North Korea and Russia inaugurated their first road bridge connecting the two countries, a 1 km (0.6-mile) two-lane structure spanning the Tumen River. The opening was marked by a ceremony where flag-adorned trucks crossed the bridge, with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and North Korea's Premier Pak Thae Song participating via video link. Mishustin described the bridge as 'a genuinely historic event' and 'a new symbol of friendship,' emphasizing that ties between Moscow and Pyongyang are 'at an unprecedented high level.' The bridge, which can accommodate up to 300 vehicles daily, will be linked to Russia's federal road network and provide access to the transport corridor from Vladivostok to St Petersburg. Construction began in April last year following an agreement during President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea in 2024. Until now, the only border crossing was a rail bridge, where planks were placed since 1959 to allow vehicle passage. The new bridge is expected to boost trade, economic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation. Trucks will begin using the bridge immediately for cargo, and it is slated to be fully operational by the end of this year, including for passenger traffic.