N. Korea reports leader Kim's surprise visit to China

What happened: North Korea confirmed Kim Jong-un's surprise visit to Dandong, China, where he met Wang Huning, paid tribute at a Korean War memorial, attended a banquet hosted by Wang, and visited a bus factory. Key numbers: Visit reported Oct. 25, trip on Oct. 24. First known China trip since September 2025. Sixth visit since taking power in 2011. Why it matters: The trip signals renewed efforts by Pyongyang and Beijing to strengthen ties after years of North Korea prioritizing cooperation with Russia. China remains North Korea's most important economic partner and a key diplomatic ally.

North Korea confirmed Kim Jong-un's surprise visit to Dandong, China, where he met Wang Huning, paid tribute at a Korean War memorial, attended a banquet hosted by Wang, and visited a bus factory.

The trip signals renewed efforts by Pyongyang and Beijing to strengthen ties after years of North Korea prioritizing cooperation with Russia. China remains North Korea's most important economic partner and a key diplomatic ally.