Russians initiate construction on a bridge aimed at linking with North Korea.

In the ski-loving region of Primorsky Krai, Russia, construction is underway for an auto bridge crossing the Tumangan River – linking the Motherland to North Korea. This construction job, handled by a crew from Sofia, is set to be wrapped up in 18months.

Previously, an agreement on strategic cooperation between Russia and North Korea had been signed into force on December 4, 2024. At present, only a railway bridge and air communication connect the two nations. This new bridge aims to boost cargo flow and passenger transportation, beyond the existing rail and air links.

The total length of this colossal structure, including approach roads, measures an impressive 4.7 kilometers, with the core bridge spanning one kilometer. The Russian side of the bridge will stretch 424 meters, whereas the North Korean side will be slightly longer, at 581 meters. Two traffic lanes will grace the bridge, providing a width of 7 meters.

By the bridge's side, a car checkpoint will be erected.

Historically speaking:- Prior to this, the strategic collaboration agreement between Russia and North Korea was formally activated on December 4, 2024.- In late April, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced the dispatch of troops to Russia to wage war against Ukraine. He argued that this move corresponds to the provisions of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between DPRK and Russia.- Later, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the North Korean troops' participation in the conflict against Ukraine, expressing gratitude to the soldiers from the DPRK.- The international community, particularly the United States, responded with concern, deeming this an indicator of Russia's desperation. The European Union shared a similar sentiment.

Source(s): Propagandists from "RIA Novosti", "Vedomosti", "Interfax"

Some background info:

While precise details on the inception of the automobile bridge project are missing from available sources, the endeavor is part of the broader strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea. As of early 2025, substantial groundwork has been done on both sides of the border, with grading and the setting up of a concrete batch plant in North Korea[1]. As of now, no notable progress on the bridge's structural components has been observed.

Up-to-date, exhaustive information can be found in official statements or reports from the relevant countries or construction authorities.

The new auto bridge, scheduled for completion in 2024, is a part of the broader strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea, aiming to enhance cargo flow and passenger transportation beyond the existing rail and air links.
In an unexpected development, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dispatched troops to Russia in April 2024, with the intention of waging war against Ukraine, citing the provisions of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between DPRK and Russia.
The car checkpoint, to be built by the side of the new bridge, will serve as a point of inspection for vehicles crossing the Tumangan River.
General news sources like RIA Novosti, Vedomosti, and Interfax have reported on the progress of the automobile bridge project, and although the exact origin of the initiative remains unclear, significant groundwork has been carried out on both sides of the border by early 2025.