Russia and North Korea Open New Road Bridge Across Shared Border

The Government of Primorsky Krai Region released photos on Monday, September 7, 2026, showcasing the new bridge linking Russia and North Korea over the Tumannaya River. Named after Soviet officer Yakov Novichenko, who saved North Korea’s founding leader Kim Il-sung, the bridge symbolizes a strengthening bond between the two nations.

The bridge spans 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) and includes two lanes, allowing up to 300 vehicles daily to traverse a newly established border crossing. This structure connects North Korea’s city of Rason with Russia’s city of Khasan, serving as a vital link between the countries.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song attended the inauguration ceremony via video link, highlighting the importance of the infrastructure. Mishustin expressed confidence in the bridge prompting growth in trade, economic, and cultural exchanges between Russia and North Korea.

According to North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency, Pak Thae Song described the completion of the bridge as a notable event, fostering increased bilateral cooperation. Economic and military support has been exchanged, with North Korea reportedly providing ammunition and troops to assist Russia in the war against Ukraine.

Since February 2024, North Korea has welcomed Russian tourists, benefiting from gradually relaxed pandemic restrictions. KCNA emphasized that the bridge will further enhance tourism, human exchange, and commodity circulation across the nations.

In 2024, North Korea and Russia agreed to establish the bridge over the Tumen River, an area bordering Russia and China. Construction started last year, supplementing the railway bridge and air service that already link the nations.