North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Arrives in China via New Border Bridge Amid Rumors of Death

Key summary

South Korean government officials reported on October 24 that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrived in China on Saturday, crossing the border using the newly opened Niuluru River bridge. The bridge, which connects North Korea and China, was officially inaugurated on October 15. Kim traveled to Dandong, where he met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. This visit occurred one day before the anniversary of China's entry into the Korean War (1950-1953), though the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet commented on the matter. Kim's previous public appearance in China was in September 2025 for the 80th anniversary celebrations in Beijing, where he met with President Xi Jinping after Xi visited North Korea in June. Christopher Green, a Korean studies expert from Leiden University in the Netherlands, stated that it is too early to speculate on Kim's intentions as he has only just arrived in Dandong, though a summit between Xi and Kim seems likely. The visit follows recent rumors about Kim's health, including reports of his death, which remain unconfirmed. Meanwhile, official North Korean media released images of Kim with his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, attending the 2026 National Clothing and Footwear Exhibition.