A new road bridge is under construction across the Tumen River, which marks the shared border between Russia and North Korea. The Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), which analyzed recent satellite images, noted that the bridge will stretch at least 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles). Analysts predict that the bridge and related infrastructure could open as early as the first quarter of 2026. The new bridge is being built south of the existing rail bridge connecting Russia and North Korea.
On the North Korean side, work has progressed approximately 150 meters into the river. Two bridge piers have been completed on that side, along with six piers on land. Images show that access ramps and shore supports are nearly finished. A new border complex covering about 5 square kilometers is also under construction.
On the Russian side, construction has advanced about 110 meters into the river. One pier has been completed in the water and another is under construction. Three piers have already been installed on land, and work continues on the access ramp and additional supports. The Russian portion of the project covers about 9 square kilometers, including the main construction site and auxiliary facilities. A helipad has been built about 300 meters north of the site, likely for transporting officials.
To support the project, Russia has established a large supply base and a temporary concrete production plant roughly one kilometer north of the site. It has also begun building a 1.9-kilometer access road from an existing route leading to the border village of Khasan.
In addition, satellite imagery dated Oct. 14, 2025, shows high levels of rail activity. A freight train was seen moving from Khasan toward Tumangang, the North Korean border station. It consisted of two locomotives, eight freight cars, one gondola, and three tankers. On the southern tracks in Tumangang, analysts observed nine locomotives and about 80 railcars. CSIS said the level of traffic indicates that trade between Russia and North Korea is increasing.