Kim Jong Un toured China’s border city of Dandong on Saturday for his second trip to the country since September 2025. The trip precedes a planned visit to the region by U.S. President Donald Trump late next month.
A South Korean government official stated Kim Jong was believed to have taken the New Yalu River Bridge, one of two large bridges that were opened recently to boost up North Korea to its biggest trading partners, China and Russia.
China Signals Stronger Economic Cooperation
China has offered to further cooperate in economic and trade areas with North Korea. Senior Chinese official Wang Huning noted that the New Yalu River Bridge opening has given a chance to enhance the exchanges between the neighbouring countries.
Wang, who also sent greetings on behalf of China’s President Xi Jinping, joined the leader from North Korea on the trip. They paid homage before visiting an auto plant in Dandong to Chinese war veterans who participated in the Korean War.
Afterwards, Wang personally waved his farewell at the New Yalu River Bridge, according to the state news agency, Xinhua.
Beijing and Pyongyang Strengthen Ties
Kim’s trip is the latest in a series of moves by Beijing and Pyongyang to improve their historical ties. Historically, both nations have had close political ties, with relationships strained on occasion.
The last time Kim visited Beijing was during a big military parade in 2025. In June, Chinese President Xi Jinping made a visit to North Korea.
Both countries have also made efforts to enhance their connectivity, such as relaunching train and airline services between their capitals.
The recent visit underscores the ongoing efforts by both neighbours to be engaged in regional diplomacy. The developments with China and North Korea will probably grab more international attention as Trump is expected to visit the region next month.