Kim Jong Un visits China for first time in a year

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 10:32 · Archive

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in China, his first visit in a year, South Korea's government said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in China, his first visit to the country in a year, according to South Korea's government. He appears to have crossed into the Chinese border city of Dandong on Saturday via a newly opened bridge, according to South Korea's Unification Ministry, though it did not immediately provide further details.

Experts said the opening of the New Yalu River Bridge this month symbolised strengthening ties between North Korea and China. The bridge is expected to accommodate two-way traffic around the clock, including container shipments and heavy cargo trucks, reflecting the two countries' intent to expand trade. Japan's Kyodo News reported that Chinese authorities were imposing strict traffic restrictions in parts of Dandong and that hotel rooms in those areas were unavailable for reservation.

Kim's visit represents his latest move in an increasingly assertive foreign policy as he seeks to align Pyongyang with Beijing and Moscow in a united front against the United States, which he portrays as pursuing a 'new Cold War'. The visit comes after Kim has recently prioritised strengthening ties with China, the North's traditional main ally and economic lifeline. North Korean state media did not immediately report on the visit, and China's Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for confirmation.

How it is being reported

• North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits China, South Korean news agency reportsNorth Korean leader Kim Jong Un is in China, his first visit to the country in a year, South Korea’s government said Saturday.News4Jax · 24 Oct, 07:26
• North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits China, South Korean news agency reportsNorth Korean leader Kim Jong Un is in China, his first visit to the country in a year, South Korea’s government said Saturday.Clickorlando · 24 Oct, 07:26

In this story: Kim Jong Un · North Korea · China · Dandong · United States · Russia · South Korea

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