China restores train services to North Korea amid selective tourist access after six-year COVID hiatus

China and North Korea will resume international passenger train services this week, restoring a critical transport link that was suspended at the start of the COVID‑19 pandemic . Trains will begin operating on 12 March , connecting Beijing , the border city of Dandong , and Pyongyang . The Beijing–Pyongyang route will run four days a week , while Dandong–Pyongyang trains will operate daily , with tickets currently available offline in China.

The long suspension of rail services — nearly six years — was due to North Korea’s strict border closures and COVID‑19 restrictions , which completely halted international travel. Even after the country reopened to tourism in 2024, entry remained highly selective , permitting only Russian tourists , a move that surprised observers given China’s role as North Korea’s largest trading partner and closest ally . Analysts suggest this decision was influenced by Pyongyang’s strategic alignment with Russia amid geopolitical tensions and the desire to gradually reopen without overwhelming its border infrastructure.

The resumed train service is expected to boost cross-border travel , strengthen economic, trade and cultural ties , and enhance people-to-people exchanges . Passengers will clear exit and entry formalities at Dandong and Sinuiju , with the Beijing–Pyongyang journey taking about 24 hours . Initial services will prioritize Chinese and North Korean nationals traveling for work, study, official business, or family visits , with general tourism expected to expand later.

The rail link’s reopening also signals deepening China–North Korea engagement after high-level diplomatic visits and expanding trade cooperation. Observers note that while Russia continues to have exclusive tourist access for now, China’s restored rail connection reflects its enduring influence in Pyongyang and efforts to gradually normalize cross-border movement. The resumption of trains represents a major step toward restoring pre-pandemic connectivity and strengthening regional ties in Northeast Asia.