A new road bridge linking Russia and North Korea is nearing completion across the Tumen River, creating the first direct road connection between the two countries. The Khasan-Tumangang bridge—a two-lane road, approximately 1 kilometre long and 7 metres wide—is located in a remote border area near the point where Russia, North Korea and China converge and links Russia's Khasan district with the North Korean town of Tumangang.
Construction officially began in 2025 after years of planning. The project includes around 4.7 kilometres of approach roads and is designed to accommodate passenger vehicles, buses and freight trucks. It will complement the Friendship Rail Bridge, which has served as the only land crossing between Russia and North Korea since becoming operational in 1959. Customs, immigration and other border facilities are also being built on both sides of the crossing.
Moscow and Pyongyang describe the bridge as an economic project intended to boost bilateral trade, tourism and cross-border transport by providing a direct highway link. Once operational, the crossing is expected to handle up to 300 vehicles and 2,850 passengers per day.
The project is estimated to have cost more than $100mn, despite bilateral trade remaining relatively modest, amounting to around $34mn in 2024. Supporters argue the bridge will facilitate future economic cooperation, while analysts see it as part of the broader strategic partnership that has deepened between Russia and North Korea in recent years.
