N. Korea and China Open New Cross-Border Bridge After 12 Years

On October 15, 2026, North Korea and China celebrated the official opening of the New Yalu River Bridge, a significant infrastructure project completed 12 years ago.

The bridge, which spans the Amnok River, connects the North Korean city of Sinuiju with Dandong in China. The inauguration ceremony was attended virtually by Chinese Premier Li Qiang and North Korean leader Pak Thae-song.

Li described the bridge as a vital link for economic cooperation, emphasizing its role in strengthening bilateral relations. He noted that this development marks a new phase in the partnership between the two nations.

Construction of the bridge began in 2011 and was completed in 2014, but it remained unused until now due to unfinished infrastructure on the North Korean side. The bridge is designed to facilitate greater trade and movement of people, alleviating congestion on the older Friendship Bridge.

Chinese officials have expressed optimism that the new bridge will enhance connectivity and trade, as Dandong is China's largest border trade port with North Korea. This development is seen as a tangible step toward deeper strategic ties between the two countries.