A passenger train link between China and North Korea officially resumed operations in March this year, after a six-year suspension. The event has fueled expectations for the early resumption of cross-border tourism activities in Dandong, a key border city in northeastern China.
According to local officials, the resumption of passenger train service is seen as a positive signal that bilateral relations are gradually improving. Many tourism businesses in Dandong have expressed optimism that tours to North Korea could soon be restored, bringing a fresh boost to the local economy, which relies heavily on border tourism.
Previously, Dandong served as the main gateway for Chinese and international tourists visiting North Korea. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions and political factors, these activities had been suspended since 2020. The return of passenger trains is considered the first step toward normalizing trade and tourism between the two countries.
Analysts suggest that if border tourism resumes, it would not only stimulate the local economy but also enhance people-to-people exchanges and bilateral cooperation amid regional uncertainties.
