Russia and North Korea opened the first road bridge across their shared border on Monday, September 7, marking the first direct land link between the two countries. The 1 km (0.6-mile) two-lane bridge spans the Tumen River, connecting Russia’s Primorsky Krai region with North Korea’s Rason Province.
The bridge was inaugurated during a joint ceremony attended by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song, who participated via video link. Flag-adorned trucks from both countries became the first vehicles to cross the new crossing, which officials say can accommodate up to 300 vehicles daily.
The new infrastructure is designed to facilitate freight and passenger traffic, according to the Russian government. Mishustin stated that the bridge would be linked to Russia’s federal road network and provide access to the Vladivostok-to-St. Petersburg transport corridor. Trucks are expected to begin using the bridge immediately for cargo transport.
Historical Context and Previous Crossings
Prior to the bridge’s opening, the only land crossing between Russia and North Korea was a temporary arrangement in place since 1959. For decades, vehicles crossed the border by driving on planks placed atop the nearby rail bridge, the sole border crossing point until now.
Construction Timeline
Plans for the road bridge had been under discussion for years before construction began in April 2025. The project was finalized during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024, marking a significant step in the deepening ties between the two nations.
Official Statements on Strategic Importance
Mishustin described the bridge as “a new symbol of friendship” and stated that bilateral ties were at an “unprecedented high level.” He emphasized that the infrastructure expansion would “provide a powerful impetus for trade, economic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation.”
The bridge is named after Soviet officer Yakov Novichenko, credited with saving North Korean founding leader Kim Il-sung during World War II, according to Russian regional officials.