Russia and North Korea open their first direct road link

Russia and North Korea have opened their first road bridge across their shared border, adding a direct road route to their existing rail connection. The roughly one-kilometer bridge crosses the Tumen River and has two lanes.

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said at the opening ceremony that the expanded transport infrastructure would give a strong push to cooperation in trade, the economy, technology, science and culture. Russian government footage showed trucks crossing the bridge from both sides as a crowd applauded.

The newly built border crossing is expected to handle up to 300 vehicles a day, according to the Russian government. It stands near the Friendship Bridge, a railway bridge dating from 1959. Russia and North Korea agreed to build the road bridge in 2024 during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea, and construction began in spring 2025.

The new connection comes as Moscow and Pyongyang have strengthened relations since Russia launched its war against Ukraine. Observers say North Korea supports Russia with troops and ammunition. In return, the internationally isolated country receives financial aid, food, energy and military technology from Russia.

Travel across the North Korean border remains tightly controlled. Most North Korean citizens are prohibited from leaving the country, and visitors face strict monitoring. The border is also repeatedly closed altogether. Russian tourism has nevertheless increased in recent years. Flights already connect Moscow and Pyongyang, alongside the direct rail link.