Satellite imagery has revealed that North Korea and Russia have intensified their efforts to build a joint motorway bridge across the Tumen River. According to a Wednesday report by Radio Free Asia, recent satellite photos taken by South Korea’s SI Analytics show visible signs of construction activity on both sides of the river.
The images displayed yellow construction materials and “probable bridge column locations” across the frozen river, extending 300 meters from the Russian border. These signs indicate that work is underway to establish the bridge, which will link the two countries. Additionally, piles of construction materials were found near the border, further suggesting significant progress in the project.
Experts believe that the pace of construction will increase in the coming spring as the Tumen River thaws. This timing aligns with expectations for a more favorable environment to complete the bridge’s foundation and supporting structures.
In late 2023, Russian news agency Interfax reported that Moscow had commissioned TonnelYuzhStroi, a Russian construction company, to design and complete the bridge by the end of 2026. The bridge will span 800 meters in length and be 10 meters wide, positioned about 400 meters downstream from an existing railway bridge over the river.
This project follows an agreement signed between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin last June in Pyongyang. The two leaders agreed to collaborate on building the bridge as part of a broader defense treaty between the two nations.
Experts have speculated that the bridge’s construction may be related to Russia’s growing need for support from North Korea amid ongoing conflicts, including the Ukraine war. The bridge will likely serve as a vital route for supplying resources, troops, and artillery as Russia faces mounting casualties in the region.
This collaborative project marks a significant step in strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia, particularly in the context of their shared defense and strategic interests.
